Security guard
Overview
A Security guard is a professional individual employed by a public or private entity to protect the employing party's assets from a variety of hazards by enforcing preventative measures. These hazards can include, but are not limited to, damage, theft, or unsafe behavior. Security guards do this by maintaining a high-visibility presence to deter illegal and inappropriate actions, observing (either directly, through patrols, or by watching alarm systems or video cameras) for signs of crime, fire or disorder, and then taking action and reporting any incidents to their client and emergency services as appropriate.
Duties and Responsibilities
Security guards have a wide range of duties and responsibilities which can vary depending on the specific context of their work. These can range from patrolling a property to monitoring surveillance equipment, controlling access points, responding to alarms, and acting as a first responder during emergencies.
Patrolling
One of the primary duties of a security guard is to conduct regular patrols of the property. This can involve walking or driving around the premises, checking doors, windows, and gates to ensure they are secure, and looking out for anything unusual. The purpose of these patrols is to deter criminal activity by maintaining a visible presence, as well as to detect any potential security risks before they become a problem.
Surveillance
Many security guards are responsible for operating and monitoring surveillance equipment. This can include CCTV systems, alarm systems, and access control systems. The guard may be required to watch live feeds for extended periods, looking for any signs of suspicious activity. They may also be responsible for reviewing recorded footage in response to specific incidents.
Access Control
In many settings, security guards are responsible for controlling access to the property. This can involve checking identification, signing visitors in and out, issuing visitor badges, and monitoring incoming and outgoing traffic. In some cases, the guard may also be responsible for conducting searches of bags and vehicles.
Emergency Response
Security guards often act as first responders during emergencies. They may be required to respond to fire alarms or other emergency alarms, provide first aid, or contact emergency services. In some cases, they may also be required to assist in evacuating a building during an emergency.
Training and Qualifications
The training and qualifications required for a security guard can vary widely depending on the country and the specific job requirements. In general, however, most security guards are required to have a high school diploma or equivalent, and some level of security guard training.
Education
While a high school diploma or equivalent is generally the minimum education requirement for security guards, some jobs may require a higher level of education. For example, some security guard positions may require a degree in criminal justice or a related field.
Training
Most security guards receive on-the-job training. This can include training in protection, public relations, report writing, deterring criminals, and emergency response procedures. In addition, many countries require security guards to complete formal training programs. These programs often cover topics such as property rights, emergency procedures, and detention of suspected criminals.
Licensing
In many countries, security guards are required to be licensed. The licensing requirements can vary, but often include being at least 18 years old, passing a background check, and completing a training program. Some countries also require security guards to renew their license periodically and complete continuing education courses.
Legal Status and Powers
The legal status and powers of a security guard can vary widely depending on the country and the specific circumstances. In general, however, security guards do not have the same powers as police officers and are subject to different rules and regulations.
Powers
In many jurisdictions, security guards have the power to make a citizen's arrest, or otherwise act as an agent of law enforcement, at the direction of their employer. However, the specific powers they have can vary. For example, in some jurisdictions, security guards can search or arrest individuals, while in others they can only detain individuals until police arrive.
Limitations
While security guards have some powers, they also have limitations. Unlike police officers, they do not have a general power of arrest. They also cannot use excessive force or violate a person's rights. In addition, they are generally subject to the same laws as any other citizen and can be held liable for any illegal actions they take while on duty.
Types of Security Guards
There are many different types of security guards, each with their own specific roles and responsibilities. These can include, but are not limited to, retail security guards, corporate security guards, and event security guards.
Retail Security Guards
Retail security guards are employed by retail stores to prevent theft, vandalism, and other crimes. They may patrol the store, monitor security cameras, respond to alarms, and detain shoplifters.
Corporate Security Guards
Corporate security guards are employed by businesses to protect their property and employees. They may patrol the premises, monitor security cameras, control access to the building, and respond to emergencies.
Event Security Guards
Event security guards are employed to provide security at events such as concerts, sports games, and festivals. They may control access to the event, search attendees, and respond to any incidents or emergencies that occur.