Nightclub security bouncer job description and security duties.
What are the duties of nightclub security and bouncers?
Are nightclub security personnel adequately trained?
How are club policies and procedures set and enforced?
Who determines what level of force is used by bouncers?
Nightclub doorman weapons pat-down
Yale University staff writer Declan Kunkel interviews Chris McGoey.
Yale University will publish this interview in The Politic Newspaper.
Podcast Time Stamps:
[01:20] – Introduction of Yale University student Declan Kunkel.
[01:30] – Nightclub security job description, including bouncers.
[01:55] – What are the typical doorman duties in a nightclub?
[04:28] – What are the typical access control duties in a nightclub?
[04:59] - What are the typical duties of a nightclub bouncer?
[06:00] - Are there any nightclub security training standards?
[07:30] - How do nightclub bouncers know when to intervene?
[08:40] - Best bouncers are not always large in stature or male.
[09:30] - Security and bouncers need clearly defined rules.
[11:28] - Nightclub bouncers notice troublemakers right away.
[12:00] - What is the liability for criminal acts of patrons and staff?
[14:00] - Nightclub security is responsible for removing known threats.
[15:20] - Nightclub security's biggest mistake is the use of excessive force.
[16:30] - Nightclub security needs an adequate number of bouncers.
[17:50] - How can a nightclub reverse a dangerous reputation?
[19:40] – How can a nightclub change the nature of a disorderly club?
[21:40] - Every nightclub needs responsible service alcohol training.
[22:35] - Nightclub security high standards hiring, training, supervision.
The best nightclub bouncers don't bounce anyone...they talk to people and deescalate behavior.Tweet This
Nightclub Security Doorman Duties
Positioned at all doors wearing a distinctive uniform.
They are well-trained for the post and know every regulation.
Must maintain control of access and club entry lines.
ID verification for legal age before admission.
Verify before entry that the person is not obviously intoxicated.
Verify that the person is not carrying a weapon or contraband.
Use an optional metal detector, pat-down, or bag search.
Enforce the dress code and refuse objectionable attire.
Refuses admission to known troublemakers.
Direct communication with bouncers and management.
Access and egress control and fire safety duties.
Calls the police to report criminal acts, as required.
Nightclub Security Bouncer Duties
Work primarily inside a nightclub or at the door.
Patrols the exterior and parking lot sometimes.
Wear a distinctive uniform that is highly visible.
Positioned in a room with an unobstructed view.
Have adequate staff (e.g., 1-50 ratio) if high-risk.
Monitor patron behavior and level of intoxication.
Enforce club rules often with early warnings.
Removes obnoxious and offensive persons.
Always professional when asking patrons to leave.
Implement a policy to ban persons who like to fight.
Use force only in self-defense or detention for police.
Calls the police to enforce criminal acts, as required.
Nightclub Security Bouncer Hiring, Training, Supervision
Hire doormen and bouncers with the right demeanor for the job.
Large men are not the sole basis for security hiring decisions.
Hire a diverse staff of different sexes, ages, and ethnicities.
Train in criminal and civil law and the standard of care.
Frequent training about the use of force and limitations.
Frequent practice and scenario drills working as a team.
Supervise security closely for compliance with training.
Mobile radios and communication aids supervision.
Frequent staff meetings with the supervisor to update training.
A manager works with the police, as needed, to maintain order.
Nightclub Security Bouncer Excessive Use of Force
Bouncers have no authority to use excessive force.
No police powers beyond ordinary citizens.
An adequate number of bouncers reduces the risk of injury.
Adequate training reduces excessive force incidents.
Excessive force by bouncers will ruin a club's reputation.
The excessive use of force causes harm and creates liability.
Should have documentation of the use of force training.
Nightclub Security Bouncer - Repair a Bad Reputation
Must control the over-service of alcoholic beverages.
Must control overcrowding and club intensity.
Failing to control aggressive behavior will ruin a club's reputation.
Excessive force by bouncers contributes to negative media coverage.
Must control parking lot for loitering, drugs, traffic, and litter.
Must control egress traffic from a club at closing time.
Partnership with the police and the liquor licensing agency.
Hire a security consultant to build a new security plan.
Commit to changing the nature of the nightclub.
Be a good neighbor and demonstrate changes in operation.
More Information about Nightclub & Bar Security
Bouncers and Doormen.
Managing Obnoxious Behavior.
Bouncers & Doormen Need Training.
Death of a Nightclub.
Bar Bouncers Use Excessive Force in Florida. Episode 11
The Politic Newspaper, Yale University.
Learn More about Premises Liability Litigation
Download the 115-page eBook written by Security Expert Chris E. McGoey
Security Expert’s Guide to Premises Liability Litigation
Evaluating Crime Foreseeability and Inadequate Security Cases
Chris McGoey has authored a tremendous practical guide about premises liability litigation for attorneys, security consultants, risk managers, landlords, law enforcement, and business operators.
“You won’t find a better book on this subject!”
If you’re a trial lawyer, you simply “Must Read This Book”
115 pages 8.5 X 11″ — Instant Download (PDF) – Revised 2023.
Copyright © 2009 – 2023 Aegis Books, Inc.
Click the Buy Now button. Pay via PayPal or Credit-Debit Cards
Instant Download $25 –
Online Orders are Secure via PayPal Server
Unconditional Money-Back Guarantee
Biography of Chris E. McGoey
Testimonials from a few clients
Speaking Engagements
Media Interviews
Premises Liability Litigation Book
Retain Chris as a Security Expert Witness
Chris McGoey Blog Article Index
Crime School Podcast Episode Index
Contact Security Consultant Chris E. McGoey
Jonesborough, Tennessee
951-461-8950