Some Common Security Related Questions and Answers

Q. What are the duties and responsibilities of a security guard

The responsibilities of a security guard vary depending on the environment they are working in. However the general tasks include:-

  • Patrolling the secured area
  • Where applicable monitoring CCTV camera footage.
  • Protecting the businesses assets to reduce and prevent theft, fire and protect staff members
  • Monitoring and responding to alarms and any emergencies.
  • Maintaining an incident report record.
  • Carrying out procedures such as fire prevention and traffic and access control 
  • Escorting visitors around the business premises.

Q. Can cctv be used as evidence

Closed circuit television (CCTV) is widely used to improve security and to help to identify any wrong doers. CCTV footage can therefore be used as evidence in court as proof that someone was in the location or to support the case that they committed an offence

Q. What is alarm monitoring

Not all alarms are monitored, some rely on the sound of the siren / bell to attract attention and thereby hopefully make any intruder leaves. The most effective systems are however connected to a central monitoring service. This receives the alert and then contacts the security firm that is protecting the premises. It is their responsibility to respond by sending some security staff to check and secure the premises and to call in the emergency services as needed.

Q. How often should a security officer do patrols

The frequency of patrols is totally dependant on the threat level at any particular time. For example, the number of patrols are frequently increased at night, or when the business is holding higher value goods. It also depends on the number of staff available and if mobile patrols are also being used.

Q. How many lone workers are attacked every day

Lone workers face many dangers, the main ones being related to social and environmental hazards. The latter includes risks like slips, trips, falls, this particularly being the case where the worker was working at height.  However, it is the danger of being attacked that worries most lone workers, and that can be understood as research has shown that around 150 are attached either physically or mentally every day in the UK. Lone workers therefore need extra protection and their employer should therefore take appropriate action to ensure their safety by providing them with alarms and carrying out visits on an irregular basis.

 Q. What Are the Different Types of Security Patrol

Basically, there are two types of security patrol, although, besides the security guards themselves, many companies also use specially trained dogs.

The most common type of patrol is the foot patrol. In some instances a member of the security team at the premises who are manning the access points or reception desk provide this service, in other cases there could be a dedicated team. Foot patrols cover not only the outside of the premises, but also will walk through the clients site, checking for open windows, jammed doors, running taps and flooding, fire risks and of course intruders.

Then there are mobile security patrols, these usually being driven from one location to another in highly visible vans, these acting as a deterrent in their own right. These teams also provide the alarm response and keyholding services offered by security guarding companies.

Q. The importance of patrolling in security

Many commercial and office premises use security personnel to provide what is known as ‘manned security’, however if these guards just stay by the gates or reception desk, then the rest of the premises could be placed at risk.

It is therefore vital for the security team to check the entire site, especially the perimeter and any vulnerable point of access. One of the main reasons for these patrols is to act as a deterrent, their presence alone often being enough to protect the premises and to reduce vandalism and theft.

Q. What is a Key Holding Licence

All businesses need to have a specified key holder, someone that can be called upon in case of a fire or other incident. However, in many cases, the Key Holder is actually a security company, the keys being held securely in their premises or vehicles.

However, in order to offer this service, the company requires a Keyholding Licence and have to be certified by the SIA.

Q. What is Event Security?

Events of all sizes often need some form of security presence, ranging from some stewards on the doors to personnel who roam the event’s site to make sure all is well. The primary aim is to ensure the safety of guests, attendees, and staff while protecting any assets and property.

Q. Why home security is so important

Anyone who has experienced a burglary or knows someone who has, will understand the sick feeling that goes with this type of violation.  And it is not just the loss of possessions either, the thought that a stranger has been looking through the contents of your home is for many the worst part.

The worrying thing is that a simple DIY alarm may not be enough, many burglars knowing that the likelihood of anyone responding in the short time that they are liable to be on the premises is low.

That is unless you can demonstrate to the potential thief that your premises are protected by more than an alarm and that a response team will be onsite in quick order.

Armed with the knowledge that your home is secure and that you have the backup of a security team, whether or not you are in or not allows you to sleep safely and generally improve your sense of well being.