By Sean Davies
Security guards? tasks differ depending on the workplace, but there is a set of typical responsibilities, each of them should take on, no matter where they work. If security guards perform these duties well, they can successfully prevent loss and crime, as well as keep the people safe. However, all responsibilities mentioned below require certain qualities from a security guard, such as excellent communication skills, rationality, ability to lead, and to be part of the team. On the other hand, being a security officer usually calls for physical strength and fitness. So, a good security guard should pay attention to every aspect of his job.
In this article, let?s focus on the responsibilities. Here are six most essential duties of a security guard.
Be visible
The primary goal of hiring a security guard is to deter shoplifters, muggers, burglars, and any kind of offenders from committing a crime. For this to work well, guards need to be visible most of the time. They should regularly patrol the company?s premises and change their position from time to time. This way, they can prevent most of the possible threats.
Their outfit, as well as appropriate gear, are very helpful in this matter. A guard in a uniform stands out from the crowd. As soon as a petty criminal sees him, he will most probably reconsider any damage he planned.
Observe and stay vigilant
Security guards have to be alert all the time. Their job is to always be on the lookout for any irregularities and strange behaviour. One could say that a good security guard is expected to have eye?s in the back of his head. He should observe people and their surroundings. It includes equipment, buildings, access points, etc. A threat can be caused not only by irresponsible persons but also by the staff?s omissions or broken things. A security guard is responsible for checking if every entrance to the building or event is secure. He needs to be vigilant about any suspicious sounds as well, and it would be good if he checked the surveillance equipment regularly.
In many companies, security guards are responsible for restricting access to the building. In such a case, their good observation skills are highly appreciated. It may be challenging to pay attention to every person that enters the building while at the same time greeting visitors and providing information or directions. That?s why security guards need to be able to stay focused during long periods of time and divide their attention.
React quickly and effectively
Even though the role of a security guard is mostly defensive, rather than offensive, sometimes their reaction is necessary. If that?s the case, it should be accurate and fast. A security guard needs to be able to interpret well whatever he sees and quickly assess what would be the best response. Their reaction depends on the threat, so they should be trained to cope with different kinds of emergencies. Dangerous situations may vary from minor delinquencies to armed robberies, so the responsibility of a guard is to know how to solve any of these problems effectively.
Follow employer?s procedures
The job of a security guard is very versatile. They can be delegated to work in a shopping mall, a warehouse, a private property, or an event. Every company has its own procedures and policies that every employee, including security guards, is expected to follow. That?s why it?s essential for a guard to be flexible and adapt to various work environments. If an employer requires a particular outfit or specific attitude towards customers, a guard should follow these practices.
Coordinate security operations
Security guards are the first line of defence, and it?s their responsibility to recognize dangers and threats. But if they notice something suspicious, apart from reacting to it, they should also know how to pass on the information to the people around them. And how to effectively guide them through the situation. The right crowd management is critical in such cases. The key is to stay calm and avoid panicking.
In some cases, security guards are not able to cope with the issue by themselves. They should quickly assess if they need support and, if so, ask for it. In case the assistance of police or firefighters is necessary, security guards can be asked to play the role of an intermediary.
It?s common as well that security guards work in teams. When the place that needs security is big or they are asked to secure a significant event, one guard is not enough. In such cases, it?s essential for team members to coordinate their actions and always stay in contact.
Communicate with people and report your actions
This aspect of the security officers? work is strongly related to the previous point. Excellent communication skills make it easier for guards to maintain control in stressful situations and enforce appropriate behaviour during emergencies. The way they communicate with people in such cases should be precise and efficient.
However, the ability to talk to people is not only necessary in the face of danger. Work with the public forms a significant part of security officers? everyday duties. Many workplaces entail identifying guests and greeting visitors, as well as giving them information or directions. Security guards have to be kind, open, and ready to answer questions professionally and politely.
Administrative tasks are another element of security guards? work, and they include recording events, observations, and relevant information. Thus, communication skills can turn out to be useful for reporting reasons as well.
As you can see, the job of a security guard requires various qualities and includes diverse responsibilities. They need to be focused and alert all the time, while their reactions should be quick and effective. That?s why it?s crucial that every guard understands the complexity of his duties and learns how to perform them well.
Sean Davies is the New Business Development Manager for Angleside in the United Kingdom and Ireland.
