Security Operations Center

A Security Operations Center (SOC) is a centralized unit in an organization that deals with security issues, on an organizational an technical level.

SOCs used for facility security

An SOC within a building or facility is a central location from where staff supervises the site, using data-processing technology. [cite book |title=Security: Defense Against Crime |last=de Leon |first=Sixto O. |year=1976 |publisher=National Book Store |location=Manila |pages=p. 17 ] Typically, it is equipped for controlling CCTV monitoring, lighting, alarms, and vehicle barriers. [cite book |title=Building Security: Handbook for Architectural Planning and Design |last=Nadel |first=Barbara A. |year=2004 |publisher=McGraw-Hill |isbn=9780071411714 |pages=p. 2.20 ]

SOCs of the United States government

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA; an agency within the United States Department of Homeland Security) has implemented Security Operations Centers (referred to as SOC) for most airports that have federalized security. The primary function of TSA Security Operations Centers are to act as a communication hub for security personnel, law enforcement, airport personnel and various other agencies involved in the daily operations of airports. SOCs are manned 24-hours a day by SOC Watch Officers. Security Operations Center Watch Officers are trained in all aspects of airport and aviation security and are often required to work abnormal shifts. SOC Watch Officers also ensure that TSA personnel follow proper protocol in dealing with airport security operations. The SOC is usually the first to be notified of incidents at airports such as the discovery of prohibited items/contraband, weapons, explosives, hazardous materials as well as incidents regarding flight delays, unruly passengers, injuries, damaged equipment and various other types of potential security threats. The SOC in turn relays all information pertaining to these incidents to TSA federal security directors, law enforcement and TSA headquarters.

A Security Operations Center Watch Officer is an officer of the Transportation Security Administration who mans a Security Operations Center and is generally tasked with monitoring the daily operations of airport security and ensuring TSA personnel follow proper protocol in dealing with airport security operations. Airports are monitored 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and it is the duty of the SOC Watch Officer to ensure all potential security breaches are under control at all times.

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