Physical Security: The Office of Protection Services Needs to Strengthen Training, Medical and Physical, and Equipment Requirements for Armed Security Guards and Improve Oversight of Unarmed Contract Guards

This audit examined the training, medical and physical, and equipment standards for the Smithsonian’s armed security guard force and compared those standards with best practices in minimum standards established by the federal government’s ISC, of which the Smithsonian is an associate member. The audit also examined how OPS ensures that unarmed contract guards at museums in Washington, D.C. meet qualification and training requirements specified in the Smithsonian’s contract.