Head of Security 101: A Brief Supplementary Guide to Commanding The ISD

| Requirements, Qualifications, and Role Overview

The requirements of a Head of Security (sometimes referred to as Commander) are fairly simple. An individual must be at least thirty years of age, and meet the minimum of ten years of experience in security-related fields. A Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from a relevant University is also required.

Further unlisted qualifications involve the ability to act under pressure, making quick decisions, and competency and understanding of the Command role. A Head of Security is one of the most impactful roles on a round, so it is extremely important that they are able to roleplay with tact and fullness of character.

The role overview for a Commander is simple- you are responsible for maintaining the safety and assets of Nanotrasen via commanding your subordinates. The Internal Security Department (ISD) is a very diverse field, as it contains detectives, CSI, Officers, Warden, and of course, the lowly Cadet. In order to be successful HoS, you should be familiar with the interdependence of these roles, and how they operate- all while maintaining the composure to not do the roles themselves. Remember, you are the one who gives orders, not the one who does them.

| Briefing / Start of Round

At the round start, you will be met with the majority of your Security Department. Most ISD loathe briefings, but you can make them both fun and bearable if you keep it short, sweet, and fun. Quickly inform them of a briefing over Comms, to prevent people from rushing out. Next, state your overall requirements of your Officers such as labelling lockers or stating their response to ISD calls. Finally- wait, you’re done? Yes, a good briefing should be short, getting your orders across, all while maintaining a good roleplay environment. Orders or requirements for individuals, such as certain Officers or the Warden should be done after briefing, to allow everyone to gear up.

| The Law

You are not The Law. You enforce it. Corporate Regulations, albeit a contract, are the “law” of Nanotrasen. In order to properly act as HoS you must understand how the Corporate Regulations function. It is often up to your discretion on whether or not individuals gain leeway within the regulations. Which, of course, can be overruled by the Captain or Central Command. In some cases, you may have an Internal Affairs Agent onboard. They may help you interpret the regulations and advise the proper disciplinary or regulatory actions to take.

| the Brig and Warden

The Brig is the fortress that the ISD resides in. Yet, it is not the HoS who is in charge of it. That responsibility falls to The Warden. You must understand that the Warden is the keeper of the Brig, but the Warden must understand that you are their overseer. Due to this relationship, you may set certain expectations of your Warden and Brig.

The relationship between the Head of Security and The Warden is an important one. The Warden, like all members of the ISD, fall under your command. Therefore, it is good practice that you request (via order) the Warden to do the following:

• Take full inventory of the armory, and have it faxed to both the Captain’s desk as well as your Office.

• Have badges from his storage at the ready for Officers

• Fill out and keep the appropriate paperwork for distribution of weapons and equipment

Another thing to mention about the Brig is organization- it would be wise to request that the Warden and Officers keep the Brig in good, clean condition. Organization is also key- if possible, ensure that Officers label their lockers with their name. The CSI should also keep a labelled inventory of evidence based on case, etc.

| A Situation Arises

Due to the nature of SS13, there will be situations that require your attention. You may wish to coordinate with other members of Command to ensure that the station is on the appropriate alert-level depending on what threat may ail it. In the event that you need to have Officers retrieve weapons from the armory, a helpful Armory Doors button on your desk will raise the large doors in the armory. During certain situations like these, it is acceptable that the Warden not require Equipment / Weapons requisition papers to be filled out, at your discretion.

Organization is also important for situation response. It is up to the Head of Security to rally his Officers to respond to situations. Note, the Head of Security should not always be the one launching themselves into battle, but should instead encourage and order your subordinates to do so on your behalf. There are, however, many situations and rounds that require you immediate action. In these circumstances, it is important that you act with the entirety of ISD, and not as a lone wolf. Governance during situations is what allows Nanotrasen to prevail.

| Not Just an Order-Giver

One of the most common reasons an individual may be unfit to be HoS is social. A Commander should wish to not only give orders, but to take part of the conversation roleplay going on. Your role is not only to be the leader of the ISD, but to further roleplay experiences, and overall increase the fun of the round. A HoS with a good character development, as well as social-ability is needed to be successful.