The Roles and Responsibilities of Security Guards

Security guard presence is becoming more common due to the growing need for protection and the gap between that need and the availability of local law enforcement. Police and Sheriff departments are excellent at what they do, but they can’t be in every lobby, every special event, and every shopping mall in America. Law enforcement responds to emergencies and crimes, leaving a gaping hole that is a perfect fit for reliable and professional security guards. Although movies like Paul Blart: Mall Cop didn’t do the industry any favors by playing down the roles and responsibilities of security guards, those roles and responsibilities are complex and have provided exceptional coverage throughout the nation.

Reliable security services are essential in bridging the gap between America’s growing need for security in the workplace, retail locations, special events, and construction sites. Front-line professionals identify and mitigate risks on assignments, keep people safe, are point people for emergencies and security concerns, and safeguards of property and assets. The presence of uniformed officers is a known deterrent to criminals, alleviating many initial concerns about safety by having someone on-site who is skilled at handling threats and risks.

Core Duties of Security Officers In The Field

Security officers in the field all share the same core group of training and duties. However, some officers choose to expand their knowledge into a specific area, such as retail, events, or corporate security. Continued education, training, and experience in these areas equip clients with specialists, ensuring the officer is up to date on current threats and understands the unique nature of the security request. However, the role of every security guard is to create a safe environment and maintain order regardless of the circumstances.

The basic roles of every security officer include:

• Establishing authority with professional appearance and confidence
• Access control for buildings, events, and parking areas
• Monitoring perimeters, addressing concerns, and conducting continual patrols
• Policy and rule enforcement for businesses, residential communities, and events
• Emergency training and response

At the core, security guards offer experience and skills that the average person or employee can't match. Even physically capable staff do not have the training and expertise to respond to a threat or intervene to de-escalate a situation.

Skilled Security Guard Traits

The top security guard trait remains good judgment. Many security officers, drawing on their backgrounds and training, use their judgment to deter crime and attacks. Critical thinking and sound decisions under pressure are vital to a security plan that works. Yielding to authority while filling in where needed is understood by experienced security officers in the field. Close behind judgment is experience and training in de-escalation. A rowdy crowd, a disgruntled customer or employee, or a confrontation in the parking lot are all situations where a peaceful solution can be achieved with the guidance of a skilled security guard. De-escalation does not require a weapon, and the best ones excel at it in every role.

Security officers must also maintain meticulous note-taking and report writing to ensure accurate accounts are tracked and documented. Many businesses that hire private security guards are protecting not only their business and people, but also against potential litigation, which is why this is an essential skill for security guards.

To be honest, not all security providers are created equal. Some do not have rigid hiring practices, leading to inexperienced officers in critical roles. However, when it matters to hire the best in the field, Off Duty Officers has a stringent hiring process, including background checks and verifications, to ensure everyone they dispatch meets the customer's needs. Some key traits every security guard should have include clear, concise communication. Even those working with clients who have English as a second language must be able to communicate clearly and confirm the details of their assignment.

The Same Role in Different Scenes

Although the environment may change, depending on where a security officer serves, the core roles don’t change. Maintain a safe, secure environment and remain diligent at all times. Whether working in a corporate, retail, or residential setting, every security officer must behave professionally, deter crime, and act as an expert in emergencies. Every assignment is unique, and partnering with each customer to ensure their concerns are addressed is what makes great security guards. To find out more about affordable security plans in your area, contact Off Duty Officers, Inc. today to speak with our security coordinator. The expertise of our team guides clients toward affordable, tailored security plans. Don’t let another day go by without knowing how viable private security is, whether for business or personal.

Call today at 844-517-5603, or click here for a free quote – our team is standing by, ready to help!