Basic Security Procedures

Security guards must be vigilant and adaptable, responding effectively to shifts in their surroundings. This entails overseeing traffic flow, safeguarding individuals both en route and within premises, supervising the entry and exit of people and vehicles, and attentively observing individuals. Guards must be knowledgeable about the appropriate protocols for addressing these scenarios. There are six procedures that guards must ensure.

1. Surveillance And Patrol Techniques
2. Access Control
3. Crowd Control
4. Traffic Control
5. Shift Handover procedures
6. Drugs effects

Patrols are essential for security guards to efficiently inspect a client’s property. When assessing a security guard’s duties, it’s vital to focus on identifying and preventing situations that could harm the client’s property. Guard will receive orders in three ways, standing order, STANDING ORDERS are permanent instructions tailored for a particular location, outlining company policies to guide the Security Guard’s action. POST ORDERS, is a document that delegates the task of security from the property owner to the Security Guard. The delegated authority includes not only the functions that the Security Guard is to carry out, but it also supplies the methods to be used in executing these functions. VERBALLY.

Access control refers to any system designed to facilitate authorized individuals’ entry into specific areas at designated times. It ensures that individuals are granted access only to the areas they are authorized to enter, at the appropriate times. Types of control are minimum, medium, maximum access control.

Crowd behaviour can significantly differ based on its underlying motivation. To effectively implement security measures, it’s crucial to categorize crowds according to their behaviour patterns and understand them thoroughly. Below is a general overview of the various crowd types typically encountered in this country.

Acquisitive– best illustrated by a crowd of shoppers seeking items in short supply or at an auction sale.

Expressive– In this type of crowd the members gather to express their feelings such as at a convention or political rally. The expressive crowd is usually well behaved.

Spectator– This crowd gathers to watch out of interest, curiosity, instruction or entertainment.

Sightseer– This type of crowd gathers almost spontaneously at the scene of a fire, accident or disaster. The members are all curious. Most will be co-operative and willing to assist.

Hostile– Crowds of this nature are generally motivated by feelings of hate and fear to the extent they are prepared to fight for what they want. The most prominent types are strikers, political demonstrations, and hoodlums or rival mobs.

Traffic control. Security Guards tasked with safeguarding private property possess equivalent authority to the property owner. Ensuring safe traffic flow within the premises is your duty. You lack the jurisdiction to manage traffic on public grounds, such as roadways. Nevertheless, your attire and training may prompt law enforcement to seek your assistance in emergencies. Legally, you’re obligated to aid the police when requested. Should you assist law enforcement, inform your supervisor to keep them informed of your absence from your designated post.

Shift handover, the most dangerous time during the day, from a security standpoint, is during shift handover. It is during this time that the attention of security personnel is typically turned away from the site and onto the administrative tasks of their jobs, which increases the potential for incidents on site.

Security Guards may come across individuals who are intoxicated or under the influence of drugs. It’s important for guards to recognize the indicators of substance abuse and understand how various drugs can affect human behavior, such as individuals experiencing withdrawal symptoms. This knowledge helps guards handle these situations in a way that prioritizes the safety of both themselves and the individuals involved.

Conclusion

Security guards are entrusted with the crucial task of maintaining safety and security in various environments, facing diverse challenges and situations. From overseeing traffic flow to handling individuals under the influence of drugs or alcohol, guards must remain vigilant and equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to address these issues effectively. Understanding the signs of substance abuse and the impact of different drugs on human behavior is paramount in ensuring the safety of all parties involved. By employing proper surveillance techniques, enforcing access control measures, and categorizing crowd behaviour, guards can proactively mitigate risks and maintain order. Additionally, adhering to standing orders, post orders, and effective shift handover procedures further enhances security protocols. Ultimately, security guards play a vital role in safeguarding property and ensuring the well-being of individuals, even in challenging circumstances.