What do Private Security Guard do?
Private security guards work directly for their clients to protect employees, customers and visitors from hazards and to protect assets. The security guard industry encompasses a wide scope of services, from alarm and camera monitoring to security guard responses for emergencies. While the duties of private security personnel are to act as crime deterrence, responding to unique requirements are key components to the the role of the professional security officer.
Security guards respond to various alarm signals, including intrusion, burglary and fire. Quick attention and response to alarms are crucial for the safety of the site’s occupants and also for controlling losses.
Prevention of accidents and dangers to staff, customers and visitors are part of the professional security guard’s duties. While on patrol, guards will monitor and check for hazards, such as electrical, liquid spills, chemical leaks and fire hazards. Lighting will be inspected to ensure proper illumination. Guards will also check for malfunctioning equipment and machinery while on patrol.
Security guards can also be seen conducting enforcement work. Controlling persons entering the property, identifying authorized and unauthorized people before entry, and anyone deemed to be trespassers. Removal of vehicles not permitted or deemed to be abandoned will be investigated and removed as well.
Guard qualifications and certifications for specific industries and businesses
As clients and their properties have different needs, security guards assigned to a specific site may require special qualifications. Other than possessing a valid security guard licence issued by the appropriate provincial or state regulatory body, the guard may require additional skills and or advanced certifications for a specific client’s business or industry. Some of these qualifications may be:
Advanced First Aid. Security guards often act as the designated First Aid Responders for the site.
Crisis Intervention. Guards may be required to assist in managing a person in a mental crisis event.
Verbal Self Defense. This is often the first line of defence in conflict situations.
Workplace Hazardous Materials Information System Certification. A requirement for industrial and many commercial sites.
Advanced Security Training: In British Columbia, a second tier of training administered through the Justice Institute of British Columbia, is available to security guards required to carry and use restraints. Depending on the jurisdiction, other use-of-force certification programs may be required as part of licencing.
The role of the professional security guard is multifaceted. Security guards respond in an instant to meet the various needs during the shift. Identifying threats to safety, crime prevention and giving assistance to staff, customers and visitors when needed are the fundamental reasons to hire a professional security company.
If contracting a private security company seems right for your business, give Royal Victoria Security a call. RVS works with clients to ensure that all security guards at the site possess the requirements needed for personnel at the site along with working with your security budget.
In the Victoria, BC and Southern Vancouver Island region, Royal Victoria Security offers free security consultations. Please contact RVS today to book your evaluation.