What does a security guard do?
A question we get asked a lot as Blue Light Group is what does a security guard actually do? In this blog, we will break down the daily duties and responsibilities of a security guard but it's important to mention that every security guard may have different responsibilities or duties depending on location, the property or premises and the requirements of the client.
A trained security guard is someone who is employed to protect a building or person/persons. Part of a job may be patrolling, patrolling can be done by foot or car/motorbike and involves the security guard walking the perimeter of the building or event. This not only acts as a deterrent for possible crime but also makes customers or clients feel secure and allows the security guard to catch someone in the act.
As well as patrolling an event or premises, a guard may monitor surveillance equipment such as CCTV, this could be observed if the premises is too large to monitor or is a high-security area. These are also in shops to catch shoplifters from a higher angle, as well as providing evidence if the store wants to prosecute.
Working at a pub or a club, security staff may need to check I.D. for proof of age before letting the customer in. Also keeping track of how many people are in the venue or event for health and safety purposes is an important job in case of fire or accident. In case of too much intoxication, security guards may come against violent or antagonistic behaviour and may need to refuse entry as a duty of care.
Security professionals may have to protect buildings or construction sites whether they are empty or in full use. This would involve regular patrols (possibly at night) and making sure access points to the premises are safe and secure and make sure that expensive equipment or items aren’t stolen.
A lot of security guards offer basic customer service, like answering questions and offering directions to visitors or customers. Also having the presence of a security guard has proven to have a positive effect on most people, as they feel safe and visitors and staff find this reassuring.
Security guards are often the first on the scene in case of an accident, so basic medical training is important. If an accident does happen the security guard will ring the appropriate emergency services and wait patiently for them to arrive.
Reporting incidents is an important factor in the role of a security guard. Reports will help create plans for the staff to avoid similar situations arising again and could also serve as important evidence in any legal proceeding that may relate to the incident.
If you think you may need a security guard for your next event or to protect your premise, Blue Light Group are proud to be able to deliver bespoke services to all its clients to ensure that each client gets the flexibility needed. All our staff are fully SIA compliant and regularly assessed by us.