For businesses of all sizes, having a reliable and experienced security guard makes all the difference. With the right training, a security guard can prevent bad things from happening in a lot of situations.
The main role of a security guard is to maintain a safe and secure environment for customers and employees by patrolling and monitoring premises and personnel.
It’s important that a security guard takes their role seriously. Their duties can range from being a protective presence, to maintain order and reacting to crimes or disturbances.
Understanding and competently carrying out these duties is crucial.
Be Visible
There’s a reason security guards wear a uniform, usually with high visibility clothing. It’s important that a security guard is visible to both the public and someone who may attempt to commit a crime or cause disturbance. The positioning of a security guard can help create feelings of safety.
Stay Alert
A good security officer will always be aware of their surroundings. They should constantly be reviewing the situation around them, noticing any potential threats or risks to the people and premises they are there to protect. All the senses of a security guard are important, for example being able to smell burning, gas or illegal substances.
Knowledge of Safety Precautions
An experienced security guard will be able to effectively advise people of necessary safety precautions. Including ways to reduce risk and protect their employees and their business.
Maintain Order
Security staff will usually be required at large gatherings, or places where there is a high volume of traffic. In potentially volatile situations, particularly where alcohol is present, a security guards’ responsibility is to maintain order. This is where good social skills and should it come to is, physical capabilities will be important.
Observe and Report
The ability to observe and report are vital for a security guard. A good security officer should be able to effectively recall previous events in a clear and concise manner. This is important to be able to provide the relevant people with the right information, including police officers and paramedics but also to prevent future occurrences. Reporting events in detail and being able to analyse these are a great skill for a security guard.
Act Fast
This follows on from staying alert to all situations. Being able to act fast will enable security to quickly take care of an event that could cause harm or disturbance. Physical fitness is also an advantage where a security guard may need to move quickly and be on their feet for long periods of time.