The Ultimate Guide to Security Guard

It is essential for you as a business owner to protect your property, staff, and assets. An effective method to achieve this is by enlisting the services of security specialists, ensuring careful selection of personnel tailored to meet your specific requirements. This blog will go over the key aspects to take into mind when choosing security guards for your company, such as the variety of security service options available, the essential certificates and abilities to search for, and the best ways to handle the hiring procedure.

Types of Security Services

Selecting the best security guards for your company starts with knowing what kinds of security services are available. Consider the following basic categories of security services:

• Static Guarding: Static guards are in charge of securing a certain area that they are assigned to. They could be positioned at your building’s lobby or front desk, at entry points for control, or at particular locations of high-value assets. Static guards respond to crises, keep an eye on security footage, check staff and visitors for potential dangers, and discourage would-be criminals.
• Mobile Patrol: A more adaptable and proactive security option is offered by mobile patrol guards. They patrol your property on a regular basis in cars, on foot, or in both. In addition to being extremely visible and serving as a deterrent to potential burglars, mobile patrol guards can react swiftly to any security incidents. They are especially helpful for companies who need to secure big areas, have several locations, or are located in remote areas.
• Armed and Unarmed guards: When it comes to safeguarding your company, you can choose between armed or unarmed guards based on your specific security needs and expectations. Armed guards are typically hired for high-risk locations or to safeguard valuable assets, given their specialized training in safely and efficiently handling firearms. On the other hand, unarmed guards are well-suited for addressing most basic corporate security needs, relying on their physical presence, keen observation skills, and communication abilities to address security challenges effectively.
• Event Security: If your company participates in event planning, enlisting the expertise of a professional event security manager could prove invaluable. These managers undergo comprehensive training in crowd management, access control, and emergency response procedures tailored for event settings. By entrusting event security managers with your event’s security, you can ensure the safety of guests, employees, and equipment with confidence.
• Executive Protection: Executive protection officers, also referred to as bodyguards, are in charge of the personal safety of prominent figures in your organisation, such CEOs or VIP visitors. Among other things, they need specific training in defensive driving, close-quarters protection, and surveillance detection.
• K-9 Security: K-9 security is the use of humans and dogs who have received specialised training for security purposes. In addition to tracking and catching attackers, dog teams can add an extra layer of security by detecting drugs, explosives, or other contraband.

Consider Your Business Needs

Before hiring a guard, it’s important to carefully assess your business’s unique needs. Consider the following factors:

• Nature of Your Business: Different industries have varying security requirements. For example, a retail store may focus on loss prevention and customer service, while a warehouse might prioritise perimeter security and asset protection. Understanding the specific security challenges and requirements of your industry will help you choose the right type of guard.
• Location and Premises: Evaluate the location and layout of your business premises. Consider factors such as the size of the property, the number of entry and exit points, parking lots or garages, and any areas that might be particularly vulnerable to theft or vandalism. This assessment will help you determine the number and type of guards needed.
• Security Risks and Threats: Identify the potential security risks and threats your business may face. This could include theft, vandalism, trespassing, workplace violence, or other specific industry-related risks. Understanding these threats will help you select security guards with the right skills and experience to handle them effectively.
• Level of Security Required: Determine the level of security your business requires. This decision will depend on factors such as the value of the assets on-site, the sensitivity of information handled, the number of employees and visitors, and the level of public access to your premises. The level of security needed will influence whether you require unarmed or armed guards, static or mobile patrols, or specialised security measures.
• Budget Considerations: Guard services come at a cost, and it’s important to consider your budget when making hiring decisions. Different types of security services and guards with varying levels of experience and qualifications will have different rates. Balancing your security needs with your financial constraints will help you choose the most cost-effective solution.

Qualifications and Skills to Look For

1. Licensing and Certification: Ensure that the security guards you hire are properly licensed and certified to operate in your state or region. Licensing requirements vary by location, so check with your local authorities to understand the necessary permits and registrations. Proper licensing ensures that guards have met the minimum training standards and are authorised to perform security duties.
2. Relevant Experience: Look for guards with relevant experience in your industry or a similar field. For example, if you run a hospitality business, consider hiring guards with experience in hotel security. Guards with industry-specific experience will have a better understanding of the unique security challenges and requirements of your business.
3. Physical Fitness and Alertness: Guards should be physically fit and capable of handling the demands of the job. They need to be alert and quick to respond to any security incidents or emergencies. Look for guards who demonstrate good physical conditioning and a keen sense of awareness.
4. Communication Skills: Effective communication is essential for guards. They should be able to interact professionally with your employees, customers, and visitors. Clear communication skills are crucial for de-escalating conflicts, providing instructions during emergencies, and writing detailed incident reports.
5. Observational Skills: Security guards must possess excellent observational skills to detect potential threats and identify suspicious behaviour. They should be able to notice small details, remain vigilant during long shifts, and accurately report any incidents or unusual activities.
6. Conflict Resolution Training: Guards often have to deal with confrontational situations, so it’s important that they have training in conflict resolution and de-escalation techniques. Look for guards who can maintain a calm and professional demeanour while effectively handling difficult individuals or volatile situations.
7. Knowledge of Technology: Modern security often involves the use of advanced technology, such as surveillance systems, access control devices, and security software. Look for guards who are comfortable with technology and have experience using relevant security equipment and systems.
8. Reliability and Integrity: Guards should be reliable, punctual, and trustworthy. They must adhere to company policies and maintain a high level of integrity in their duties. Conduct thorough background checks to ensure that the guards you hire have a clean record and can be trusted with the security of your business.

Conclusion

Selecting the perfect security guards for your company is an important decision that can affect both the security and revenue of your operations. You can make well-informed hiring decisions by being aware of the many security service options available, thoroughly evaluating your company’s needs, and searching for particular skills and qualifications in applicants. It is important to have a comprehensive hiring procedure that includes background checks, interviews, and screening in order to choose reliable and competent guards. 

You can contact PGS Solution for all your security related needs.