Security Guards and Related Security Service Workers

Nature of work

This group includes workers who guard and implement security measures to protect property against theft, vandalism and fire, control access to organisations, maintain order and enforce regulations at public events and within institutions, conduct private investigations for clients or employers and provide other protective services. They work for public or private security agencies, residential complexes, educational, cultural, financial, and health institutions, retail stores, businesses and industry, investigation service companies, transportation facilities, and organizations throughout the private and public sectors, or they may be self-employed.

Job duties

Security guards:

• Control access to institutions, use security control-room equipment and patrol assigned areas to guard against theft, vandalism, and fire.
• Enforce regulations to maintain order and resolve conflicts and to monitor organization activities.
• Make sure safety and emergency procedures are followed.
• Issue passes and direct visitors to appropriate areas, check age identification of patrons, and perform security checks of passengers and luggage at airports.

Armoured car guards:

• Drive and guard armoured trucks, pick-up and deliver cash and valuables to banks, automated teller machines and retail businesses.

Corporate security officers:

• Investigate unlawful acts of employees or patrons of businesses.
• Recommend security systems like electronic detection devices and access devices.

Private investigators:

• Investigate to locate missing persons.
• Get information for use in civil and criminal litigation matters or for other purposes.
• May also conduct polygraph tests (integrity surveys) for clients.

Retail loss prevention officers:

• Prevent and detect shoplifting and theft in retail businesses.

Sample job titles

• bodyguard (except police)
• bouncer - security
• commissionaire - security
• loss prevention officer - retail
• private detective
• private investigator
• retail loss prevention officer
• school crossing guard
• security alarm system consultant
• security guard

Skills

• You should be physically fit and in excellent health, and have a valid driver's licence. Cultural sensitivity, patience, and mental stability are important. You must be resourceful and able to work on your own carrying out instructions given by your employer. It will be necessary to gain a good knowledge of the regulations pertaining to your work. Excellent communication, observation, and problem-solving skills are essential. You should also be able to communicate with and gain the respect of the public. Candidates are required to pass the appropriate background check.

Job requirements

• High school is usually required.
• A college diploma in law and security or police technology may be required.
• Training is provided for airport security guards and company-specific training may be provided for security jobs in this group.
• Security guards carrying firearms require a licence.
• Armoured car drivers require a Valid Possession and Acquisition Licence (PAL) and a Firearms Acquisition Certificate (FAC) for both restricted and non-restricted firearms.
• Private investigators require provincial licensure.
• Responsible beverage service certification is usually required for security staff in businesses serving alcoholic beverages.

Other considerations

• Corporate security officers may require experience as a police officer.

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