Security guard operators face real on-the-job risks every day — from physical altercations and patrol-related injuries to long shifts that increase fatigue and strain. In California, a single workplace injury can quickly lead to medical costs, lost productivity, and licensing issues. 
Workers’ compensation insurance is designed to protect both your security guard operators and your business when these incidents occur.
California Workers’ Compensation Requirements for Security Guard Companies (BSIS Compliance)
California maintains strict workers’ compensation laws, and security guard companies are heavily regulated.
If you employ even one security guard operator, California law requires you to carry workers’ compensation insurance. In addition, security companies must maintain proper coverage to remain compliant with state regulations, including licensing requirements overseen by the Bureau of Security and Investigative Services (BSIS).
Operating without workers’ compensation coverage can result in:
- Significant fines and penalties
- Stop-work orders
- Potential criminal charges in severe cases
- Suspension or revocation of your security license
Workers’ compensation is not optional — it is a legal requirement to operate a security business in California.
What Does Workers’ Compensation Cover for California Security Guard Operators?
Workers’ compensation is designed to respond immediately when a work-related injury or illness occurs. A typical policy includes:
Medical expenses
Coverage for emergency care, hospital visits, prescriptions, physical therapy, and follow-up treatment related to on-the-job injuries — including injuries from physical altercations or repetitive strain.
Lost wages
Partial wage replacement if a security guard operator is unable to work due to an injury. For example, if an operator is injured during a patrol and cannot return to duty for several weeks, workers’ comp helps replace a portion of their income.
Disability benefits
Short-term or long-term disability payments depending on the severity and permanence of the injury.
Vocational rehabilitation
Support for injured workers who require modified duties or retraining to safely return to work.
Death benefits
Financial support for dependents if a work-related injury or assault results in death.
Without proper coverage, these costs can fall directly on the security company and significantly impact operations.
How Safety Programs Impact California Security Guard Workers’ Comp Rates
Insurance carriers closely evaluate a security company’s training, incident history, and operational controls when determining workers’ comp rates.
Key risk-reduction strategies include de-escalation training, clear use-of-force protocols, regular refresher training, proper equipment standards, fatigue management for long shifts, and prompt incident reporting. Strong safety programs help reduce claims, control experience mods, and stabilize long-term insurance costs.
How Bone Robertson & McBride Supports California Security Guard Companies
Managing workers’ compensation for a security business in California can be complex due to the industry’s higher-risk exposure. Bone Robertson & McBride helps security companies navigate these challenges with industry-specific expertise.
We work with California security guard companies to:
- Ensure workers’ comp coverage aligns with BSIS and state requirements
- Verify correct employee classification to avoid overcharges
- Compare policies from top-rated carriers experienced in security risks
- Assist with claims management to prevent cost escalation
- Support audits, renewals, and business growth
Our goal is to help security company owners avoid compliance issues, control workers’ comp costs, and protect their workforce.
Get a California Workers’ Comp Review for Your California Security Guard Company
If you operate a security guard company in California, now is the time to confirm that your workers’ compensation coverage is compliant, accurate, and competitively priced.
Contact Bone Robertson & McBride to request a California workers’ compensation review or receive a security-guard-specific workers’ comp quote before your next policy renewal.
Learn more about our security guard insurance solutions here:
https://www.brmins.com/security-guard-insurance
This blog is intended for informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Please consult your insurance professional for guidance specific to your business.