Private security guards, who are employees of private security companies, carry out a wide range of specialised functions as part of their responsibilities. This article aims to delve into the regulation of a security guard’s activities at various facilities, the reason why roles may vary even within the same service, and who determines the scope of their actions.
Legal and Regulatory Aspects of a Security Guard’s Work
The security industry in Brisbane, Australia, has legal and regulatory requirements that must be followed by security guards. The Queensland Government website states that a security guard must have a valid security licence for the specific role they undertake, such as unarmed security officer, crowd controller, private investigator, or bodyguard. A security guard must also follow the code of conduct and meet the training standards for their licence category. The consequences for a security guard who breaks the law or licence conditions can include penalties like fines, suspension, or even licence cancellation. A security guard must also keep their licence details updated and check the licence status of their employer or contractor. According to this law, a private security company specialist is allowed to:
- Monitor the operational situation in the adjoining area and within the premises.
- Safeguard the property situated at the facility and any transported goods (while accompanying them).
- Manage access control and ensure intra-object security.
Private security personnel are responsible for inspecting vehicles that enter and exit secure areas. This includes overseeing property carried by employees and visitors to these areas.
In their role, they utilise technical means of surveillance and access control, all parts of their key functions. It’s their job to ensure individual safety and well-being.
Should an emergency occur, they’re equipped to provide first aid to those affected. They’re also trained to prevent illegal entry into the premises, property theft, disturbances, and breaches of public order.
In the event of criminal activity or attacks on those they’re protecting, private security staff are authorised to use special means to suppress these threats. In certain situations, as defined by the law, private security guards are permitted to use their service weapons.
Specifics of Private Security Activities
The primary role of a private security guard is to ensure the safety of the premises they’re protecting. However, this core function could require a range of actions and involve various tasks. The specific activities at any given site largely determine the differences in the official duties of these security personnel.
For example, the responsibilities of a personal bodyguard will differ from those of a stationary or mobile post officer, or a checkpoint duty officer, or an employee of the State Bureau of Investigation.
The role of Private Security Company (PSC) specialists can vary significantly, influenced by multiple factors. These can range from the type of property or event they’re tasked to secure, to external elements such as the current crime rate in the area, the complexity of transporting secured cargo, or the status of the person being protected.
Company Security Guard Responsibilities
To illustrate this point, let’s look at the typical duties of a security guard in a private security company assigned to protect a manufacturing enterprise. Such a setting is quite specific, usually encompassing a large area, with or without buildings. The focus here is on securing the perimeter and preventing unauthorised access into the facilities. The security personnel also need to address potential theft by the company’s employees and ensure information security.
Given the prevalent risks and the nature of the job, PSC specialists’ responsibilities may include:
- Implementing procedures to protect inventory. This often involves installing a video surveillance system, allowing the security team to monitor the premises. Inspections of vehicles and personal belongings of employees may also be conducted.
- Overseeing the operation of installed technical systems at the facility, such as video surveillance, access control systems, and fire alarms.
Detaining individuals who are disrupting public order or suspected of illegal activities, for handover to law enforcement authorities.
Patrolling of designated territories.
Inspecting premises and other areas for signs of break-ins.
Verifying the documentation for goods being imported or exported.
Maintaining a record of all visits to the business and monitoring the operation of the electronic system.
Mitigating the impact of emergencies by ensuring swift evacuation procedures for staff and visitors and providing emergency services with access to necessary areas of the protected site.
Monitoring information systems for unauthorized access and implementing technical and software measures to safeguard information.
Additional responsibilities may be assigned that are within the legal boundaries and the capabilities of a private security officer.
Responsibilities of Security Personnel at Large-scale Events
Large-scale events are unique in terms of security needs. A team of specialists is tasked with providing security. These duties can greatly differ due to the unique attributes of the controlled zones. Some security personnel ensure the safety of event attendees and VIP guests. They are primarily tasked with preventing unwanted interactions between protected individuals and unknown parties and controlling access to specific areas or sections of the venue (in the case of outdoor events).
Private security personnel, tasked with extensive surveillance, keep an eye on potential high-risk situations, proactively prevent potential offences, and maintain crowd control during emergencies. Those stationed at checkpoints are responsible for verifying visitor tickets, invitations, and documents, as well as preventing the entry of banned items into the premises.
Bodyguard Responsibilities
Personal protection is a service tailored to individual needs. As such, the fundamental responsibilities of a private security officer can be extended to suit the security needs of the client. These duties are agreed upon when the contract for security services is signed.
The bodyguard is responsible for accompanying the client during travel and ensuring their safety at home. They are also tasked with inspecting all visited locations and vehicles for possible threats. Part of their role includes preventing unwanted interactions between the client and third parties. If the service includes a “security guard-driver”, then the role’s responsibilities and the required qualifications for the security personnel extend accordingly.
Qld Diamond Security Guard Responsibilities
The role of a Qld Diamond security officer is defined by the necessary authority, specialised training, high-ranking status, and the unique nature of the rapid response group’s operations. Following the trigger of an alarm signal, the Qld Diamond security personnel are tasked with swiftly conducting an initial inspection of the premises. If there are no visible signs of a break-in or similar incidents, an authorised individual (either the client of the security service or their representative) is summoned to the facility to unlock the doors and carry out a thorough inspection of the interior.
In the event of a genuine emergency, the security personnel are responsible for surveying the property and the facility, verifying points of entry, apprehending violators, and handing over culprits to the local law enforcement agencies.
The authorities strictly govern the powers of private security firms. Overstepping these boundaries while guarding properties or providing personal protection can adversely affect the client’s reputation. To mitigate both tangible and intangible, current, and prospective risks, it is advisable to collaborate with experts in the field.
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