Security guards, though primarily responsible for safeguarding your property, personnel, and clientele, provide numerous additional benefits to your enterprise. In this article, we delve into the various roles and responsibilities of security guards.
Basic Duties of Security Guards
A security guard’s responsibilities encompass a wide range, from mere presence to responding to thefts and assaults, all the way to maintaining lawfulness. Familiarity with the full scope of a security guard’s duties is vital for optimal property protection.
Highlighted below are some key roles of security guards.
1. Observation and Reporting
A security guard’s most critical duties involve monitoring and documenting any anomalies. Patrolling designated areas and conducting security inspections are essential components of this role.
If a crime or emergency arises, the guard’s detailed recollection of prior events aids first responders in efficiently managing the situation.
2. Visibility
A visible security presence can deter potential wrongdoers or unruly behavior. Consequently, a security guard’s prominent positioning in public, high-traffic locations fosters a sense of safety.
3. Order Maintenance
Security personnel must enforce laws and regulations within the premises. This includes:
- Enforcing company policies, rules, and laws
- Controlling access to the building
- Monitoring surveillance systems and alarms
In emergencies, guards should manage situations while maintaining order, exhibiting strong communication skills and decisive leadership until responders arrive.
4. Guest Assistance
Security guards may be stationed at building entrances, where they are expected to help guests. This entails offering information and directions.
Typical settings for this responsibility include:
Balancing this duty with other tasks, such as threat detection and access denial, is essential for guards in these roles.
5. Property Protection
Security guards must remain vigilant, using their senses of sight, hearing, and smell to protect the property. This may involve frisking individuals entering the building and identifying potential hazards.
6. Enforcing Safety Measures
During emergencies, guards are accountable for implementing safety protocols in accordance with company guidelines. These measures safeguard employees, guests, and the public, allowing guards to steer them away from danger.
Additional Security Guard Tasks
In certain scenarios, security guards may provide expertise and experience beyond their primary duties.
Administrative Support
Security guards can offer the following services to alleviate administrative burdens on your staff:
Liaison Services: Serving as intermediaries between public safety officials and your management team.
Telephone Assistance: Answering, screening, and directing calls, as well as taking messages when needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should a security guard not do?
A security guard should not fall asleep on the job, leave their post without permission, or neglect their duties in any way. Additionally, a security guard should not engage in any illegal activity, use excessive force, or accept bribes.
Can security guards follow you?
In most cases, security guards cannot follow you unless they have a reasonable suspicion that you are engaged in criminal activity or pose a threat to the safety of others. If you are concerned that a security guard is following you without cause, you can ask to see their badge and ID and/or contact their supervisor.
Can security guards search your bags?
In general, security guards can only search your bags if you give them permission or they have a warrant. However, there may be some exceptions to this rule depending on the circumstances (e.g., if you are entering a secure area).
Can a security guard ask to see your receipt?
In most cases, security guards cannot ask to see your receipt unless they have a reasonable suspicion that you are stealing. However, some stores may have policies that allow security guards to request receipts from all customers.
Reliable Security Solutions
Having a professional, qualified, and licensed security guard will go a long way in ensuring that all the above duties are performed with the vigilance they should. That’s what we offer here at Building Security Services & Building Security Systems.
We have a team of well-trained security personnel dedicated to providing you with quality services meant to secure your office building. Contact us today at 973-414-1111, and learn how we can be of assistance.
Joseph Ferdinando
Joseph Ferdinando is the founder of Building Security Services, a company that provides security solutions to businesses and organizations. He has more than 40 years of experience in the security industry, and he is a recognized expert in the field. Joseph is also a member of Building Owners and Managers Association (BOMA), where he's held position of Director on the Board of Directors in both the New York and new Jersey chapters.