Employee terminations can create high-risk situations for businesses. A worker may respond to a layoff, demotion, or dismissal with anger or unpredictable behavior. A security professional’s job is to reduce that risk and protect staff, assets, and company operations.
This guide from 24 & 7 Security & Investigations, one of Houston’s top security firms, breaks down how to protect your workplace from a fired employee. With over 20 years of experience and a team that includes veterans and martial arts experts, our team understands the value of vigilance and preparation.
Here’s what every guard and employer should know.
Why Terminations Can Be High-Risk Events
Dismissals often trigger strong emotional responses. Some employees may feel betrayed, embarrassed, or unfairly treated. In extreme cases, this can lead to:
- Verbal threats
- Harassment or stalking
- Physical violence
- Vandalism or sabotage
- Theft of company data or property
As a security guard, you must treat every termination as a potential security incident. The goal is to prevent harm before it happens.
Step 1: Start With a Pre-Termination Plan
Planning before a termination reduces the risk of violence or retaliation. Work with HR, legal counsel, and the leadership team to create a step-by-step security plan.
Coordinate With Management
- Identify the employee’s schedule, access level, and potential red flags.
- Learn whether there have been past outbursts, threats, or disciplinary issues.
- Establish who will be in the room during the termination meeting.
Control the Environment
- Choose a private room close to the exit.
- Position the guard nearby but out of view, ready to respond.
- Remove objects that could be used as weapons (scissors, heavy tools, glass items).
Review Exit Procedures
- Confirm how the company will handle keys, ID cards, badges, and electronics.
- Set clear communication protocols in case of an emergency.
- Arrange for IT to disable access to email, apps, and security systems during the meeting.
Step 2: Maintain a Visible, Calm Presence During Termination
While most terminations are peaceful, a guard’s visible presence adds a layer of protection. Stay alert and neutral. You’re there to observe and respond—not to intimidate.
De-Escalation Techniques
If an employee becomes aggressive, apply these basic techniques:
- Keep your voice calm and steady.
- Avoid sudden movements or direct confrontation.
- Give the person space and avoid blocking the exit.
- Use non-threatening body language.
If needed, guide the conversation back to the facts. Example: “We understand you’re upset, but our priority is a safe environment for everyone.”
Step 3: Escort and Monitor the Employee’s Exit
The moments immediately following termination are critical. The security guard’s goal is to make sure the employee exits without incident and does not return unexpectedly.
Escort Protocol
- If the company requests it, discreetly escort the employee to their vehicle.
- Stay alert to body language, changes in tone, or pacing.
- Avoid physical contact unless absolutely necessary.
If the employee refuses to leave or begins to escalate, notify law enforcement immediately.
Step 4: Secure Access Points and Sensitive Information
After the employee leaves, the guard’s job shifts to long-term protection. Some former employees attempt to return or access sensitive data later.
Access Control
- Confirm that all building access codes, cards, and keys are revoked.
- Change shared passwords for physical or digital systems.
- Check security cameras to ensure no suspicious activity occurs after hours.
Property and Data Security
Work with IT to:
- Disable remote access to servers or email.
- Log out devices that may still be active.
- Scan for any recent file transfers or downloads.
Step 5: Watch for Red Flags After Termination
Just because the employee is gone doesn’t mean the threat is over. Former employees may return days or weeks later. Keep an eye out for:
- Unfamiliar vehicles parked nearby
- Repeated calls or emails to staff
- Online threats or public social media posts
- Employees who report feeling followed or harassed
Keep a log of all incidents, and encourage employees to report anything that feels off.
Step 6: Conduct a Post-Termination Security Review
Each termination is a learning opportunity. After the event, hold a brief security review with HR or site supervisors.
Questions to Ask
- Did the employee respond as expected?
- Were all access points secured on time?
- Were there any signs we missed?
- Do we need to improve the process for next time?
Use this review to update protocols and improve future response times.
The Role of Professional Security in Employee Terminations
Business owners should never handle high-risk terminations alone. A professional security guard adds trained oversight and immediate response capability.
At 24 & 7 Security & Investigations, we:
- Work directly with employers and HR teams
- Provide armed or unarmed guards for termination events
- Create custom plans based on the employee’s risk level
- Remain on site until the situation is fully resolved
Many of our guards are U.S. veterans and martial arts experts trained in observation, protection, and emergency response. You can meet some of our leadership—like Joe Orsak, a black belt weapons specialist and longtime business strategist—on our company page.
Protecting Your Workplace
Employee terminations can be unpredictable. A guard’s job is to stay calm, stay alert, and follow clear procedures. With the right plan, most dismissals happen without issue. But if a situation turns, a security guard’s presence can prevent injury, damage, or worse.
To learn more about how to manage hostile terminations or request professional support for your site, call our team for a security assessment.