Unlike many jobs where people can take 5-minute smoke breaks or step away to check social media, security guards must ALWAYS be on point. That’s why they work at jobs that require continuous vigilance and are often physically fit to stop a conflict before it escalates.

They also complete detailed reporting and safety checks. And when serious incidents occur, security guards collaborate with law enforcement officers. Click the Website to learn more.

A security guard’s presence is a powerful deterrent against crime. They observe and monitor their surroundings, report any suspicious activities, and use conflict resolution skills to diffuse situations and keep people and property safe.

Security guards are often the first to respond to a fire or accident. They check credentials, provide emergency assistance, and liaise with fire or police services to gather information they need to handle the situation safely. Security officers also perform routine patrols, checking for unauthorized access, unattended vehicles, or any other potential risk. They must also be able to follow established protocols for dealing with visitors and keeping logs of guests or vendors.

Having the right preventative measures in place can help reduce your security guards’ workload and ensure they are fully prepared for their shifts. Depending on the industry, you may want to implement visitor screening procedures, set up access controls for designated areas, and maintain logs of all visitors or vendors. You can also take measures to discourage unauthorized access, such as putting up barriers and restricting parking in the area.

The best prevention measure is to prepare your guards for their shift ahead of time. Make sure they have all the equipment needed for their role and are aware of any hazards or blind spots on site, like exits, stairwells or security cameras. It’s also important to remind them to report any maintenance issues, no matter how small – broken locks, alarms that have run out of batteries or lightbulbs that are out.

When a security guard falls asleep on duty, they lose their ability to deter or respond to danger and leave the premises vulnerable. Disciplinary actions, including termination of employment, are necessary to send the message that sleep on duty is not tolerated and compromises the very service they are hired to perform.

Preparing your security guards for their shifts isn’t just about giving them the right tools – it’s about providing the right incentives and creating an environment where they feel supported, safe and empowered to do their job well. By implementing these simple strategies, you can make your guards happier and more productive at work.

Conflict Resolution

Conflict resolution is one of the most important skills security guards learn during their training. It enables them to defuse tense situations and mediate disputes without using physical force, which reduces the risk of harm or injury to people and property. Security guards use active listening, empathy and negotiation strategies to diffuse tension and promote peaceful solutions that uphold an organisation’s reputation.

Conflicts in the workplace or at a public event can escalate quickly. Breakdowns in communication, frustration and even drugs or alcohol are common causes of aggression. In the security environment, security guards are often viewed as an avenue of misplaced anger by agitated individuals who don’t have access to other avenues of recourse for their problems. This makes conflict resolution vital to the success of a security team.

Security guards are trained to use de-escalation techniques, which involve talking the person down from a situation rather than confronting them head on. This involves establishing clear lines of communication and using simple, direct language to avoid confusion. Non-threatening body language and maintaining eye contact also help to convey a sense of confidence and authority.

The first step in de-escalation is to allow the agitated individual to express their grievances. Listening without interruption and demonstrating empathy helps them feel understood and less threatened, which can alleviate the anger they’re feeling. Security guards are also taught to ask questions to clarify misunderstandings and remove ambiguity from the situation. They are also able to steer the conversation toward mutually acceptable solutions that eliminate resistance and promote cooperation.

In addition, security guards maintain detailed records of conflict incidents that can be used as valuable references in future. They work closely with colleagues, management and, when necessary, law enforcement to ensure a coordinated response to conflicts. Peaceful conflict resolution contributes to a healthy working environment and prevents situations from escalating into potential legal risks, including harassment and discrimination claims.

The key to successful conflict resolution is not using physical force, which is against the law in most cases. Security guards who demonstrate their ability to talk someone down and find solutions with minimal disruption or damage are highly valued for their professionalism. This also helps reduce the risk of legal repercussions for themselves and their employers, as well as for the people who have been involved in the conflict.

Emergency Response

Security guards are trained to assess and respond quickly to a variety of emergency situations. They ensure that safe evacuations are in place, that lockdown protocols are activated and that clear communication is established. Their ability to remain calm in the face of a crisis and adhere to established procedures protects lives and property, as well as enhances the overall security and resilience of the organisation.

In the event of an unauthorized intrusion or disturbance, security guards are prepared to take decisive action that may include apprehending suspects, detaining them until law enforcement arrives, or simply acting as a visible presence to deter crime. Similarly, when medical emergencies occur on the premises, security guards are ready to assist in a variety of ways. From providing first aid to summoning medical assistance, their skills are vital in a crisis.

For instance, when a choking baby was found at a gas station in December 2019, the two security guards on duty reacted quickly and calmly. They began with a quick assessment of the situation, and then immediately initiated safety measures (including activating emergency protocols and life-saving first aid) until paramedics arrived to relieve them.

Security guards also understand the importance of communicating effectively during an emergency, which is why they’re equipped with dependable communication devices like radios and phones to relay information as needed. They communicate with control center security personnel to receive continuous updates about the incident, and they provide individuals in distress with the necessary instructions to evacuate or stay safe.

The most important aspect of an emergency response plan is that it should be tested regularly through tabletop exercises, drills and simulations. This helps to identify weaknesses and refine the plans based on lessons learned. Additionally, it’s important that security guards have access to supplies, such as water, heat and a phone, so they can continue to perform their duties in the event of an emergency. This includes having a backup system for communication, such as a call tree and email alerts, so that they can continue to act as the shield between danger and those they safeguard.

Training

The skills required of a security guard vary depending on the industry, but all must undergo rigorous training to ensure they can respond appropriately when a situation arises. They may learn about security protocols, customer service techniques, de-escalation tactics, and weapons use (if applicable). They should also be familiar with the laws of their state.

Security guards are often hired by private parties or government agencies to protect their assets from a variety of threats, including property damage and theft. These agents are typically stationed at a checkpoint or patrol an area to prevent unwanted activity. They can be armed or unarmed, and they often work closely with law enforcement.

A guard must pass a background check to be employed in this field. Additionally, he or she must complete the mandated NYS courses to obtain a license. Most people who become licensed begin their careers with a security company, which will place them at various locations that the firm has been contracted to staff.

After completing the initial education and certification requirements, many security guards go on to participate in drills and other hands-on training. This helps them stay informed about new security technologies and strategies. They also train on how to effectively communicate with others in stressful situations, and they take part in ongoing professional development.

In addition to being skilled at responding to a security threat, guards must be prepared for other emergencies that may occur during their shift. They must be able to evacuate a building quickly and safely, handle natural disasters and fires, and provide first aid to people in need. They must also be able to follow strict policies regarding unauthorized access, safety equipment, and other security related matters.

Guards who work at offices and corporate sites must be able to control access, monitor surveillance equipment, and maintain records of all activities that happen on site. They can also help prevent theft and vandalism by monitoring employees who come and go, implementing lockdown procedures during critical incidents, and ensuring that all security cameras are functioning properly. They should also be familiar with the rules of a particular location, including those concerning smoking, loitering, and trespassing.