A security guard is an individual employed by either a private or government agency to protect the hiring party’s assets against a range of potential risks by enforcing protective measures. Security guards may be employed in an industrial, residential, or commercial environment and are typically employed as a part of a larger team to ensure that the largest number of people and property is safeguarded. Security guards work in many capacities depending on the specific needs of the employer. Some of the common jobs available include guarding buildings and people and supervising or monitoring deliveries. In addition, security guards may also work in casinos, airports, department stores, private security firms, and more. To fill all of these positions, there are specific qualifications required for each job.
Because there are so many different security guard jobs available, it is important to gain an understanding of the security guard job description in order to easily find a job that meets your particular needs. As with any job, there are always some safety and health issues that need to be addressed. It is vital to understand that these safety standards vary depending upon the location and employer. For example, in an industrial setting, strict compliance is expected of all employees, while in a residential or commercial setting those employed may only need to follow the guidelines.
Another thing that one must keep in mind when looking for security guard jobs is that they are often divided up between positions based upon what specific skill or specialty as the job requires. Therefore, while the same general skills may be needed for all positions, the level of expertise required for each will differ. Some examples include surveillance and perimeter duties, building security, emergency rescue, and more. The type of training or certification required varies slightly for each job as well, so it is advised to check with specific job boards or recruiting agencies to determine what level of experience or education is required for security guard employment.
When people think of security guards, the first thing that usually comes to mind is physical security. This is critical for obvious reasons, as any type of guard is going to be required to physically protect their clients or properties. Some of the most common physical tasks required of security guards include checking for concealed weapons, assessing threats to property and personnel, and making sure no one is tampering with any type of equipment or property. Due to the nature of work that a security guard has, it is important that he has excellent vision, as he may be required to make quick decisions or contact people that he may not be able to see very well. As well, he needs to be very disciplined, as he will have to be on his feet all day and can only carry a small amount of gear at a time.
Another important trait that many people look for in security guards is the ability to stay calm and in control of the situation at all times. Security guards are often called in to duty when something bad happens or when a person believes that someone is being robbed or otherwise abused. Since many people feel that they have some sort of authority over the situation, having some degree of control over it allows them to take charge and keep everyone calm and under control. One of the most common complaints from people that are being called in to guard premises is that they are ordered to leave even though they are not following proper protocol. Even though a security guard may feel like he is being ordered too, it is important for him to remain calm and do what he is told to do. If a security guard feels that he is being mistreated or not doing his job properly, he should report it immediately.
Communication is another key skill that most people look for when they hire security guards to work for them. The majority of people feel that if they just tell a guard who they are and where they need to go that he will know exactly what he is expected to do and won’t need to ask for help again. However, communication is vital when guards are working outside. There may be noise that cannot be heard or there may be people around that shouldn’t be there at all. Therefore, communication is key to preventing problems from occurring.
If a security guard does not hear an individual responding to his commands or does not get the person’s name and address, he has to make sure he documents everything so that the next time the client calls, he can contact the right person. Some people call the police on their own when they are unable to reach a security guard. These people need to know that if the guard can’t reach the person then the police will be called and the situation will be handled accordingly.
The last thing that a security guard needs to know is how to behave when other people call the security guard out. Sometimes, people might get upset or embarrassed when they are not able to get into their home or apartment due to a lock down. Because of this, it is crucial that the security guard knows how to act when these situations occur. Every security guard should be taught how to handle these types of situations because their behavior can determine the way that other people will respond.
