Security guards also dont have many promotion opportunities. Working as a security guard will allow you to learn new skills that can help you in the future. Steer your way into a growing career path with short-term training. Procedures for Filing Workers Compensation Claims, The Evolution of Workers Compensation Law in Pennsylvania, 10 Reasons to Hire a Workers Compensation Lawyer. This information is not intended to create, and receipt or viewing does not constitute an attorney-client relationship. Education: A high school diploma or equivalent is usually required. 2023 Nationwide Investigations & Security, Inc. Nationwide Investigations & Security, Inc. OSHA-certified independent safety inspection agency, Security Guards & Retail Commerce: A Perfect Match. NBCNews.com reported that after dealing with a separate physical altercation, Hernandez was asked to guard a door temporarily and keep conference goers from entering. Sometimes people are started on the night shift or the graveyard shift, and you have to work your way up to days. You might even come across the opportunity to meet one of your favorite celebrities. In fact, if you dont do your job well for just a single day, unpleasant things might happen which can destroy your reputation in the security industry forever. Depending on where a security officer is stationed, be it medical facilities, factories, warehouses, and other similar commercial properties, hazards such as bio-hazardous waste, dangerous chemicals, and other factors could pose a threat to the health of the security guard. The motive for the attack was not immediately clear, the department said. Little Education is Required: 1. Youre blue collar as f*ck, the attendee said, You should kill yourself. To his credit, Hernandez stood there and took the abuse quietly and did not make a difficult situation worse. However it is one of the most exhilarating and high paying jobs today as well. I did the same when I started working in consulting after finishing my Masters degree in Economics. Thus, this could be an excellent opportunity for you if you are a little bit on the shy side and want to increase your peoples exposure. The skills you learn in this particular security job can go with you to the next opportunity if you leave that job. Nobody can deny the risks involved when you work as a security guard, and the security guard training should not be taken lightly. Since you will work outdoors on a regular basis, you will also get lots of fresh air as a security officer. Considering a Career in the Security Industry? Psychological stress: Insufficient motivation along with a strained mental and emotional work environment can cause stress and tiredness, which could lead to poor mental health. In some countries, for example, nearly two private security officers are killed on duty for every police officer fatality. While many security guards might have quiet postings, many more put their lives at risk everyday guarding people and property. Background check: You'll need to pass a background check to ensure a clean criminal record. This is not a nice situation at all and if you want to make sure not having to deal with these issues, you should rather go for a career where you can make more money instead of becoming a security guard. There can also be special events or other situations where you will be needed for more than eight hours. Especially if you live in a region where living costs are quite high, you may even need a second job to survive. Thus, it's important to identify these risks and inspect the premises for potential hazards. Security guards are not always given appropriate equipment, putting them at a disadvantage if they are confronted with criminals who may be carrying a firearm or other weapon. Security officers are a necessity for protecting people, private assets, commercial and residential properties. If you are a security guard and sustained aworkplace injuryorillness, you may be wondering what your options are. However, Ive quit pretty soon after that since I havent found true meaning in my job. Extensive training limits risk for ourselves as a corporation, any potential liabilities on part of our clients, and most importantly, risks to the personal safety of our invaluable security staff. You can get an entry-level job as a security guard with little to no education or experience. Security guards act as an onsite deterrent against crime, but that doesn't always mean that no crimes occur while they're on duty. What does security guard mean? You might work in a position where you are at significant risk of being harmed. Not only will your job prospects be pretty poor right now, but it may get even worse in the near future. They will want you to conduct yourself with the highest level of integrity. There will be times when you will have to stay at work longer than you wanted to. Phone (305) 231-6323 ext. When a fight breaks out, it is the security guard that must break it up and protect others. Now that you know all the pros and cons of a career in the security business, it is on you to decide whether you still want to work in this field or if you rather want to go for different job options instead. You can also earn much more working for yourself. Even when chemicals or other hazards arent a threat, malfunctioning machinery, accidents, and other human errors can create unsafe conditions. They inspect and patrol property against theft, fire, terrorism, vandalism, and other illegal activity. You really never know what could happen when weapons start getting involved. June 20, 2023. You may be checking identities, processing trucks, or directing people to where to go. Another upside to becoming a security guard is that you will also not need any fancy education. Consider working in such a position and how doing so can help you to grow your career and life achievements. My brother will likely appreciate a job as a security guard. This job will most likely suit you if you have an adventurous spirit and soul. There are usually more positive than bad experiences working with people, but it is one of the things that increases the stress level of employees. There are a few disadvantages of physical security, especially for security guards who have to work in hot weather. This is quite sad and I just want to give people a more objective picture of how a fulfilling career could look like. Working With Different People: 4. And weve formed more than just working relationship with them; We have formed true friendships. Companies provide training, and if you can learn some basic tasks and pay attention, you can do this job. Getting some overtime may be the only way to earn a little extra money while working there. After a retail theft at a Kmart store, a Rockford, Illinois security guard was seriously injured. Different scenarios, different responsibilities and each and every one with a danger of its own. More and more business owners are concerned about security, and this means there are more security guard jobs than ever. Working as a security guard is too dangerous and that is one of the main reasons why security companies focus on proper training of the people they hire. You will feel a heartwarming sense of purpose and accomplishment if you are someone who wants to make a difference in the world. For example, it could be the first step toward becoming a police officer for you. Rather low since security officers are easily replaceable. You could grow into a management position, and there are specific jobs that do require some time to become qualified for. Consequently, once you get older and are no longer able to work, you may not have enough funds to pay rent and other basic expenses. Yes, it will be a long way to go until you get to this stage. It's important to address these matters, as research indicates that exposure to bullying and workplace violence is linked to diabetes. In fact, statistics demonstrate that police officers incur more injuries on the job. In fact, your work-life balance will be pretty decent as a security officer, even though you may have to work in the evening quite often, which can become a little bit annoying in the long run. Since there will be no need to go to college if you want to become a security guard, you will also not have to spend lots of money on tuition and other costs related to college and this also means that you dont have to take on lots of student loan debt. Quite often, the plans of your clients change and you therefore have to change your schedule as well. However, some general requirements that most states have are: Minimum age requirement: You need to be at least 18 years old to become a security guard. A security guard can be armed or unarmed, and this person may work inside or outside of doctors offices, workplaces, schools, business establishments, and the like. As a result, there are several dangers that security officers face that is an inherent part of their jobs. Security guards must be thoroughly trained on when, where, and how to use their weapons. Critical thinking. Poorly trained guard dogs can lead to behaviour that's unpredictable and aggressive. Physical violence: This may include bullying with the use of a weapon, sexual harassment . Another positive aspect of working as a security guard is that the job opportunities will rise about 15 percent over the next 10 years. These are some of the cons of choosing to be a security guard as your profession: One aspect of working as a security guard that may seem like a con is its risk level. In contrast, you as a security guard will get much more exercise and your risk to suffer from the issues mentioned before tends to be significantly lower. All rights reserved. You can earn more money in some places than in others. In fact, many women love to date people who work in the security business since they want to feel safe in their daily life. 3003| Fax (305) 364-7050 CPS is now serving in Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario. Obviously, one of an armed security guards primary responsibilities is to protect those around him. : Larry Pitt is responsible for the content of this website. Become a licensed plumber in your home state. There are no education requirements for becoming a security guard. When a company allows guns to be carried by security guards they typically make sure . There are several levels of employment, and there are a lot of opportunities. Also, take preventative measures, such as vaccination and ensuring electrical wiring is safe, to reduce these risks. Great medical career for all the animal lovers out there. While you are not a policeman, you could potentially get into a physical conflict with someone. Pros: Flexible Hours. Here are some disadvantages of being a security officer, with considerations for how to overcome them: 1. This means that you will do the same things for many years or even decades without the option of getting to a higher position anytime soon. Many companies own operations all over the country, and it is easy to transfer from one to another. That's because if activities are not properly coordinated, or if there is a level of disorganisation, it can create confusion for the security guards regarding everyone's responsibilities and duties. A guard who is not properly trained will only cause frustration on the scene and also end up in trouble. is committed to ensuring digital accessibility for people with disabilities We are continually working to improve the accessibility of all content on our website and applying the relevant accessibility standards. Am I Entitled to Workers Compensation Benefits? Great! Getting creative has never been this much fun. I conducted various interviews with employees to give you a good impression of what working in different fields will look like and that you can make the best possible decision regarding your future career choice. Potential Personal Risks: 4. This can be pretty important, especially if you dont have a good relationship with your parents and want to get out of their house as soon as possible. As you can see, there are definitely many advantages of working as a protective agent. When working in a manufacturing environment, the officer may be exposed to industrial wastes or chemicals that are required for the process to run smoothly. You must keep yourself fit and trim to work a job as a security guard. It is critical that they have protection in mind at all times, whether it is for a person or a location. Our conversation quickly moved from our software , to his disciplinary process, and what happens when officers don't follow procedure. Enforcing laws and regulations related to trespassing. It would be a tragedy if someone died because they were not properly taught to operate a firearm. He can be reached at [email protected] or 1-800-645-5820. You will need a squeaky-clean criminal record to obtain a job as a security guard. You can find guards working in bars and clubs trying to keep the peace. Conduct security checks over a specified area. However, there are several risks that security guards often face that security managers should consider to avoid liability or injury. At some point you will be outside and uncomfortable for an extended amount of time. Boredom can actually be the hardest thing to contend with as a security guard because you still have to be paying attention. Although most of the occupational risk factors that affect security officers are minor, the potential for serious harm, injuries, and even death are always present. There could be days where you hang around your facility and basically do nothing, especially if it is a holiday. In fact, most protective agents work even fewer hours and this means that you will have plenty of time to spend with your family or to meet up with your favorite people. Hospitals, labs and other places that may have high exposure to radiation can seriously impact your security guard's health if they lack proper training. Sure, nothing bad will happen most of the time. In fact, almost everyone can do this job and if someone comes along who is better or demands less money, chances are that you will get fired from one day to the other. Security companies provide the training you need and the jobs are easy to learn. The pay is not great in most cases, but it is better than the typical entry-level job. That varies by facility though, and some are not flexible at all. Only you know what your goals are and what you want to achieve personally and financially. Learn about welding in your state a career with a short training period! Many opportunities await you if you decide to delve in. You should also not expect to make good money as a security guard. Here are some skills that can help you develop your knowledge of security operations or procedure skills: Researching abilities. This will limit liability, keep the officer safe, and help them adhere to company requirements, but an officer will always be exposed to some hazards. The Benefits of Conflict Avoidance Training, Top 7 Reasons Private Detectives are Hired, Common Duties & Responsibilities of Security Guards, Traits of Successful Security Professionals. It is the responsibility of each video security system employee to review and internalise the companys principles, requirements, and standards. An Armed Security Guards Responsibilities. Strengthen your organization's security 2021, Deggy. Security guards arenot policemen, however. You will also see guards working at retail stores observing shoppers and looking for thieves. Multiple scholarlysecurity guards company investigations of worker injuries in the security business have come to the same conclusion.Researchers discovered that falls and slides accounted for 36% of injuries to private security workers in one study. As a security guard for a celebrity or a VIP there is always the risk of being badly injured. Many injuries sustained by security guards result from car accidents, slips, and falls that take place during inclement weather conditions, or in less than ideal work environments. Security guards are an intricate part of office buildings, shopping malls, clubs & bars, and social events (such as weddings, political gatherings, concerts, etc). Female security guards who may be pregnant or breast-feeding require special measures to safeguard them from health hazards that can impact their child. If its a valuable or a property, there is always the threat of theft or robbery. It is possible that you could be outside in the rain, or the snow. You will also be easily replaceable as a security guard. In most security jobs there are several different tasks you will do, and things happen every day that are new and interesting. 5400 E Olympic Blvd Suite 227Commerce, California 90022, Copyright 2023 American Security Force All Right Reserved | Privacy Policy, Two Las Vegas security guards were shot and killed, An ex-soldier was sentenced to life in prison, 49-year-old Shawn Patilla was fatally shot, Boosting California Business Safety: Why Hire Security Services, Future-Proofing Retail Stores: Embracing the Latest Trends in Security Monitoring, 24/7 Protection: Video Surveillance Safeguarding California Against Crimes, Unveiling the Best Security and Surveillance Cameras for Corporate Protection, How Security Cameras Revolutionize Business Security. Learn about becoming an LPN in your state, its in demand! Vocational Training Programs/Courses List (TRADE COURSE) Key Benefits, Top 22 High Paying Jobs That Dont Require Bachelors Degrees, Understanding Vocational Training What Is Vocational Training, Free Training Programs Near You (Continuously Updating), Best 500 Trade Schools: Top 10 Trade Schools in Each State, Vocational Rehabilitation: The Definitive Guide. You can move forward and start looking for open positions and seeking qualifications if you feel that security is the right field for you. Rather low social status of security officers, Security guards may be liable for mistakes. You might face dangerous situations. While many security guards might have quiet postings, many more put their lives at risk everyday guarding people and property. If its a politician, there are chances of possible attacks. That is a risk in and of itself. Another issue with becoming a security officer is that you will also have a rather low social status. Wich includes: Deggy Steel Checkpoints, Deggy Software 2018, Sample Reports and Deggy Smart Map link. 5 What are the dangers of being a security guard? There are numerous ways for a guard to become injured, ranging from slips and falls on damp ground to injuries sustained while attempting to apprehend a criminal. Consequently, if you want to have a safe job, you should not become a security guard but rather go for industries where humans are not replaceable that easily. When working at events and concerts security guards are required to control the crowds or protect those on stage. A well-trained security guard ensures everyones safety.One of the most important responsibilities of a security guard is to ensure security services companiesthat he or she only utilises the gun when necessary. Get information about programs near you or online. The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) statistics show that there were an estimated 739,000 incidents of violence at work, 356,000 of which were physical assaults. HSE Violence at Work 2018-19. Once you become a security officer, it will also not be easy to change fields anymore. Interested in travel? In fact, many people who work in this field just dont make enough money to afford solid health insurance plans and in case of medical emergency, those people will often not be able to afford expensive medical treatment and their life expectancy will therefore below average. Security guards protect people and buildings from intruders that try to get close to them. For example, you may learn some self-defense moves that will help you protect yourself and your family. Having some experience may help, but security companies are looking for certain skills more than they are looking for experience or education. If you have to spend more than one thousand dollars a month on rent, your income from your security job will just not be enough to cover all other basic costs and you will therefore have to work in a second job to pay our bills. 3. How Dangerous Is Working As A Security Guard? The role of a security guard is important for protecting private property and the people who reside or work on the premises they guard. Easy Start-Up. Dog-related risks. How Many Types of Security Guard Jobs Are Out There? This can be really frustrating and many people who work in this field lose motivation due to that sooner or later. To be clearly visible One of the duties of a security guard is to make his or herself clearly visible, as this would deter criminals. This is especially true once you become more experienced and your clients will trust you blindly. It is sort of the ideal entry-level job because you do not have to have anything other than a willingness to be there to get the job. Since security officers work in settings that may attract criminal activity, they're exposed to some personal risk. Copyright 2023 | Designed & Digital Marketing by. The benefits given may be long-term or short-term and can help pay medical bills and replace lost wages. It can be an interesting job and it is not a hard job. Theyre the center of my fan base, the airport security guards.. Become a medical assistant and launch a career in healthcare. Of course, working outdoors is not always pleasant, especially when it rains or snows outside. Answer (1 of 13): I started out working security after I graduated from high school, I really had my heart set on becoming a police officer but back in the day most police departments had height requirements. A properly trained security guard is at less risk of being injured in a chaotic situation. In the worst case, you may even end up homeless in the streets since your landlord may just evict you in case you cant pay your rent anymore. It can be a good career start for a person just out of high school, and who has not decided what they want to do as far as their career goes. Specific Risks Regarding Security Activities. Decent since you will not work that many hours as a security guard on average. Most security companies provide training as well, so you do not have to have a background in security. Nothing on this site should be taken as legal advice for any individual case or situation. You protect people and help your client to safeguard their assets. While some people like working outdoors and it can indeed be pleasant during times of good weather, it can also be really annoying in cold periods of the year. Based on the news stories above, it is accurate to say that guards risk their lives when they go to work. As an associate, I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases from Amazon or other programs. As a security guard, you will also have to work outdoors quite often. You might have to spend your entire shift outside in some security positions. There are challenges and risks involved most of the times as the job entails protecting people, properties, products etc. However, there will be plenty of positions that allow you to be in more exciting and eventful environments and positions. Write comprehensive reports outlining what they observed while on patrol. Sometimes risks are specifically related to security activities.