Security guards play a vital role in maintaining the safety and security of properties and individuals. They are responsible for protecting businesses, government buildings, and private properties and ensuring the safety of the people within them. Their jobs are crucial in nature and investing in security personnel can prevent serious damage to lives and properties. A good security guard is a complete package of skills, physical attributes, training and mental and emotional aptitude.
In this blog post, we will explore the role and responsibilities of security guards, the qualifications and training required to become one as well as the job prospects for security guards
The Responsibilities of Security Guards
With the increasing threats to the safety of assets and lives, the need for security systems and security personnel has risen significantly in Canada. What these security guards can do for a business and other entities depends entirely on their requirements. Generally, the following roles and responsibilities are delivered by security guards and agencies. These duties include but are not limited to the following:
- Protection of property and assets from theft, vandalism, and other forms of damage
- Monitoring security cameras and other surveillance equipment
- Responding to alarms and emergency situations
- Patrolling the property to ensure there are no suspicious activities or individuals loitering
- Writing reports and documenting incidents on the property
- Providing crowd control at events, such as concerts and sports games.
- Enforcing rules and regulations to maintain order and safety
- Responsible for providing peace and security for VIPs, celebrities, and politicians
- De-escalation of physical conflict and violent situations
Qualifications and Training
To become a security guard in Canada, individuals must meet certain qualifications and complete a specific training program. The qualifications and training requirements vary depending on the province but generally include:
- A valid security guard license
- A criminal record check
- First aid and CPR certification
- Basic security training, which covers topics such as emergency response, report writing, and surveillance techniques
- Additional training, such as self-defence or the use of firearms, depending on the type of security job
It’s important to note that the specific qualifications and training requirements vary from province to province. In Ontario, for example, security guards are required to complete 40 hours of basic training and 8 hours of annual refresher training, while in British Columbia, security guards are required to complete 40 hours of basic training and 40 hours of on-the-job training.
To find out more about the criteria set down by the Government of Ontario for security personnel, please visit this link.
Gemstar Security Training Module
At Gemstar Security Services, we like to go a step further than other security service agencies. Not only do we fulfil the legal requirements for security guard qualification set down by the provincial government for Ontario Security Guard Licence but we add an extra layer of training. We like to ensure that our employees deliver top-of-the-line security service to our clients.
With our Gemstar Security Training Module, we drill the best practices of security services into our security guards till it is second nature to them. This module covers an in-depth path to providing holistic and proactive security to our clients. Additional aspects that we cover in our training are:
- Security and Compliance
- Concierge Services
- Alarm Response
- Trespass to Property Act
- Self-defense
- Recognizing and dealing with workplace violence and harassment
- Criminal Code of Canada
- Situation de-escalation
- Adaptation to changing environments and/or circumstances
Career Opportunities for Security Service Personnel
For a qualified security guard licence holder, there are thousands of opportunities to employ their training and qualification in their chosen field. They can work for private security agencies or be employed directly by the organisation or property they are protecting. Security guards are required in a wide range of professional settings, including:
- Corporate buildings and offices
- Shopping malls and retail stores
- Banks and financial institutions
- Government buildings and courthouses
- Hospitals and other healthcare facilities
- Residential buildings and gated communities
- Special events and concert venues
- Warehouses and storage facilities
- Construction and renovation sites
- Personal security detail for high-profile individuals
Advancement Opportunities
For those interested in advancing their career in the security field, there are several opportunities for growth and advancement. Some security guards may choose to specialize in a particular area, such as executive protection or event security. Others may choose to become supervisors, managers, or trainers.
Some security guards may also choose to pursue a career in law enforcement, such as becoming a police officer or a border services officer. The experience and training gained as a security guard can be highly valuable in these roles because it provides a solid foundation in public safety and security.
Conclusion
Security guards play a vital role in maintaining the safety and security of properties and individuals in Canada. Employing security guards at the premises is becoming more of a necessity than a want. They are responsible for protecting businesses, government buildings, and private properties, as well as ensuring the safety of the people within them.
As the leading provider of security services in GTA, we have a solution for your security guard needs. Whether you are looking for a career in security services or to employ a qualified security guard for their services, you have come to the right place. Call us now at (905) 850-8517 or visit https://gemstarsecurity.ca/ now.