When it comes to ensuring safety and security in public spaces, uniformed security guards play a crucial role. Not only do they deter criminal activity, but they also act as the first line of defence in emergency situations. However, their responsibilities go far beyond just standing guard. In Ontario, there are specific regulations that outline the duties of security professionals. We will expand on 7 important duties of a security guard:
- Arrest
- Use of Force
- Checking Identification
- Removal of Individuals from Property
- First Aid & Emergency Response
- Securing Property
- Search: Individuals and Property
In this article, we will dive into these responsibilities and highlight how important training is for those seeking a career in the security industry.
1. Arrest
One of the most significant responsibilities of a uniformed security guard in Ontario is the ability to make arrests. This means that they have the authority to detain individuals who may be involved in criminal activity and turn them over to law enforcement.
However, it’s essential to note that security guards can’t just arrest anyone they deem suspicious or commit any form of violence during an arrest. To make an arrest, there needs to be probable cause – a reasonable belief that a crime has been committed. Furthermore, guards must use only necessary force when making an arrest. They cannot use excessive force or weapons unless their safety is at risk.
Security professionals who are trained on how to handle arrests effectively will know when and how to act while following legal protocols. With proper training, they’ll also learn how important communication skills are in de-escalating situations before resorting to making arrests.
2. Use of Force
As a security professional, one of the most critical responsibilities is knowing how and when to use force. The Ontario Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services defines force as any action that could injure or harm an individual.
It’s important to note that using force should always be a last resort for dealing with potential threats. Security guards must first attempt to de-escalate situations through verbal communication before escalating to physical intervention.
When it comes to using force, security guards must adhere strictly to the regulations outlined by the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA). This legislation outlines specific guidelines for the appropriate use of force in different scenarios. Paragon’s Basic Security Training program provides comprehensive education on these guidelines. It helps professionals learn how to recognize situations where they may need to apply varying levels of pressure or control.
Effective training combined with good judgement helps security professionals maintain public safety while minimizing unnecessary risk or injuries.
3. Checking Identification
Uniformed security guards in Ontario are responsible for asking for identification from individuals who are entering or on the premises they are protecting. This is important to ensure that only authorized persons are allowed access and prevent unauthorized individuals from entering restricted areas.
When a security guard requests identification, he or she should be clear about why it’s needed and what will happen if someone doesn’t provide it. It’s also essential for guards to verify the authenticity of an individual’s identification before allowing them entry. They should ask for appropriate forms of identification such as a driver’s licence or government-issued ID and be alert to any signs of document tampering or forgery.
If an individual refuses to provide proper identification when requested, the security guard may ask them to leave the premises immediately. Security professionals need to have excellent communication so that they can effectively communicate with people who may not initially comply with requests.
It is equally crucial that security professionals handle identifying information with extreme care, ensuring sensitive data like name, address, phone number, and other personal details are kept confidential. Guards need to know how best to protect this data according to current privacy laws in Canada.
In summary, requesting identification is one of many ways uniformed security guards demonstrate their commitment to safeguarding public safety while respecting people’s rights under Canadian law.
4. Removal of Individuals from Property
One of the primary responsibilities of uniformed security guards in Ontario is to remove individuals from property when necessary. This can include removing unauthorized personnel, trespassers, or individuals who are causing a disturbance.
When removing individuals from the property, security guards must follow established protocols and use appropriate levels of force if needed. It’s important to note that the use of force should always be a last resort after all other options have been exhausted. In some cases, verbal persuasion may be enough to get an individual to leave the premises peacefully.
However, physical intervention may become necessary if an individual refuses to comply with instructions or becomes aggressive.
It’s crucial for security guards to receive proper training on how to safely and effectively remove individuals from property without causing harm or injury. This includes learning de-escalation techniques and understanding when involving law enforcement officials is appropriate.
Promptly responding and taking action when necessary, uniformed security guards play a critical role in maintaining public safety and protecting private property.
5. First Aid & Emergency Response
Another important responsibility of a uniformed security guard in Ontario is to provide first aid and respond to emergencies. This requires knowledge of basic first aid techniques and the ability to remain calm under pressure.
In situations where an individual on the property experiences a medical emergency such as a heart attack or seizure, it is critical that the security guard can respond quickly and appropriately. The guard must be able to assess the situation, contact emergency services, and administer any necessary first aid until help arrives.
Additionally, in cases where there are accidents or injuries on the property such as slips or falls, security guards must be trained to provide basic first aid treatment. A quick response time by trained professionals can make all the difference in preventing further injury or even saving someone’s life.
Being prepared for emergencies with proper training and equipment shows professionalism and dedication from uniformed security guards toward ensuring public safety.
6. Securing Property
Securing a property means preventing theft, vandalism and unauthorized access to premises. Security professionals are trained to assess potential weaknesses in a property’s security measures and take proactive steps to mitigate them.
A key aspect of securing a property is surveillance. Security guards must be vigilant at all times, monitoring entrances and exits for suspicious activity. They may also use cameras or other surveillance equipment to monitor larger areas.
Part of securing a property is access control. Security guards ensure that only authorized personnel enter the premises by checking identification cards, verifying appointments or using other measures as required.
In addition, security guards must be prepared for emergencies such as fires or natural disasters that could threaten the safety of people and assets on the property. They are trained in emergency response procedures so they can quickly evacuate people if necessary and minimize damage to the property.
Securing a property requires constant attention from security professionals who are well-trained and capable of responding swiftly in any situation.
7. Search Individuals and Property
As a uniformed security guard, there may be occasions when you are required to search individuals and/or property. This may include checking bags and vehicles or even conducting pat-downs on individuals.
When it comes to searching individuals, it’s important to remember that this should only be done if there is reasonable suspicion that the person has something they shouldn’t have or poses a threat. In addition, searches should always be conducted respectfully and with sensitivity towards personal dignity and privacy.
Searching property can also be an important aspect of maintaining safety and security. This could involve inspecting packages or deliveries for prohibited items or ensuring that sensitive areas are kept secure with access control measures.
It’s worth noting that while searching individuals and property can help prevent potential threats from entering a facility or event space; it should never involve profiling based on race, ethnicity, religion or any other protected characteristic. All searches must adhere to strict guidelines established by the organization you work for as well as any relevant laws governing search procedures.
In conclusion
Uniformed security guards play a vital role in maintaining public safety and security. Their responsibilities are diverse, ranging from providing first aid to investigating incidents and detaining criminals. They must possess the right training, skills, and knowledge to perform their duties effectively.
Security professionals must always be alert and vigilant while on duty. They should prioritize the safety of their colleagues, clients, visitors or customers who may require assistance at any given time.
By following strict protocols for arrest procedures when necessary but also using appropriate force only as needed; checking identifications; removing individuals from property without causing harm, and responding quickly to emergencies with adequate first aid care if necessary – these tasks can make all the difference in keeping people safe.
In summary, we hope that this post has provided valuable insights into the roles of uniformed security guards in Ontario. Remember that personal safety is everyone’s responsibility so let us work together towards creating a safer Ontario for all!
If you are ready to jumpstart your career in security, check out our careers page.
Join a booming industry! With ten years as one of Canada’s Best Managed Companies, a place in the Hall of Fame of Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures, being named Best Employer by Forbes Magazine for three years in a row, and winning the OSPA’s Outstanding Contract Security Company Award, Paragon is one of the fastest-growing companies across Canada. Be sure to follow and read Our Blog to learn more about Paragon and the exciting world of security.
