Security guards play a crucial role in maintaining a safe environment but there are some misconceptions about what they can and cannot do. Let us break down their responsibilities so that you will better understand their duties.
The Silent Protectors: What Security Guards Can Do
Security guards play an important role in maintaining safety and security in various settings. Therefore, Here’s a detailed overview of what they can do:
- Deterrence of Criminal Activity: Security guards act as a visible deterrent to criminal activities through their presence. The mere sight of a security guard can discourage possible criminals.
- Access Control: Guards are responsible for controlling access to the premises. They check credentials, verify identities, and ensure that only authorized individuals allowed entry contributing to the overall security of the location.
- Surveillance and Monitoring: They operate and monitor surveillance systems including CCTV cameras to detect and respond to potential security threats. Regular patrols may also be conducted to maintain a security presence.
- Emergency Response: In the event of emergencies such as fires, medical incidents, or security risks, security guards trained to take immediate action. This may involve notifying emergency services, guiding people to safety, and providing initial assistance.
- Customer Service: Customers frequently interact with security guards as their first point of contact. They provide assistance, answer questions, and offer information to maintain a positive and secure environment, contributing to overall customer satisfaction.
- Enforcement of Rules and Regulations: Guards have the authority to enforce specific rules and regulations established by the property owner or employer. Also this includes ensuring compliance with conduct policies, parking regulations, and other facility-specific guidelines.
- Conflict Resolution: Security guards trained to handle and resolve conflicts peacefully. Also their presence alone can de-escalate situations and they use communication skills to diffuse potential confrontations.
- Patrolling: Regular patrols of the premises allow security guards to identify and address potential security risks. This proactive approach contributes to the prevention of security incidents.
- Report Writing: Security guards document their observations and actions in detailed reports. These reports serve as a valuable record for both the security team and the client aiding in the analysis of security trends and incidents.
- Collaboration with Law Enforcement: While they do not have the authority to make arrests, they often collaborate with law enforcement when necessary. They can provide information, witness accounts, and support to aid in the resolution of incidents.
The Boundaries Defined: What Security Guards Cannot Do
While security company play a crucial role in maintaining safety and security, there are limitations to their authority. Here’s a comprehensive list of what security guards generally cannot do:
- Arrest Without Proper Authority: They do not have the same arrest authority as law enforcement officers. They can detain individuals for intruders, or until the arrival of law enforcement, but arrests should be left to trained professionals.
- Use Excessive Force: Guards should use force only when necessary and within the bounds of the law. Therefore, Excessive force not permitted, and guards must prioritize de-escalation techniques to resolve conflicts.
- Conduct Unauthorized Searches: Security guards cannot conduct searches without proper authorization. Any searches required should be conducted by law enforcement personnel with the appropriate legal authority.
- Impersonate Law Enforcement: Guards should never present themselves as law enforcement officers. Also this includes using equipment, uniforms, or language that could be misleading about their authority.
- Make Legal Determinations: Security guards are not legal professionals. Therefore, they should not make legal determinations or provide legal advice. Any legal matters should be left to qualified legal professionals.
- Handle Evidence: Guards are not trained to handle evidence in a criminal investigation. Therefore, If a situation requires evidence collection, it should be left to law enforcement personnel.
- Perform Medical Procedures: While security guards may provide basic first aid in emergencies, they are not medical professionals and should not perform complex medical procedures. Emergency medical situations should be left to trained healthcare providers.
- Override Legal Rights: Guards cannot override an individual’s legal rights. For example, they cannot detain someone without a valid reason or discriminate based on race, gender, or other protected characteristics.
- Act as a Substitute for Law Enforcement: Security guards are not a substitute for law enforcement officers. Their role is to observe, report, and maintain a secure environment. They should not attempt to take on the responsibilities and duties reserved for police officers.
- Provide Legal Advice: They should not provide legal advice to clients or individuals. Legal issues handled by qualified legal specialists.
Understanding these roles and limitations helps ensure that security guards contribute to a safe and secure environment while keeping to legal and ethical standards.