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How to Hire a Security Guard in the UK?
Are you seeking insights into the recruitment process for hiring one? If so, continue reading.
The recruitment and selection of security guards are thorough procedures, as even a single mistake by an inept security guard can jeopardise lives and property security.
This article delves into the various phases of the hiring process of security guards and highlights the significance of each stage, including the process of hiring security guards, essential considerations before making a security hire, and the rationale behind businesses opting for security protection.
Many companies seek security services and guards to protect their assets. Hiring a security guard in the UK is a critical decision that requires careful planning and consideration. By identifying your specific security needs, researching security companies, interviewing potential guards, and following legal and contractual guidelines, you can ensure that you hire a qualified and reliable security professional to protect your assets and provide peace of mind. Remember that security is an investment in safety, and making the right choice is paramount.
Steps to Hire Security Guards in the United Kingdom
1. Define Your Budget
Security services can vary significantly in cost depending on the level of security required and the duration of service. Define your budget and discuss it with potential security companies to ensure that their services align with your financial constraints.
2. Announcing the Security Guard Position Opportunity
To secure the services of a capable and ethical security guard, you must begin by announcing the job vacancy. The more visibility you give to this announcement, the greater your chances of finding a professional security guard who can fulfil their duties effectively. To ensure a robust applicant pool, consider using a mix of offline and online methods, such as social media platforms, online job boards, and discussion forums.
3. The Application Process
Interested candidates are typically directed to a specified location on a designated date to initiate the application process. This process involves completing applicant forms and potentially taking a language proficiency test. Depending on the employer’s preferences, additional assessments may be administered to evaluate applicants’ computer skills, mathematical aptitude, or other relevant qualifications. However, if a specific skill is not a requirement, candidates will not be tested for it.
4. Interview Potential Security Guards
Once you’ve identified a security company or several candidates, schedule interviews with potential security guards. During the interview, ask questions to assess their qualifications and suitability for your specific needs. Some questions to consider:
- Experience: Inquire about their previous security experience, especially in situations similar to yours.
- Training: Ask about their training and certifications, ensuring they meet the legal requirements for security personnel in the UK.
- Availability: Determine their availability and whether they can accommodate your schedule, whether it’s for a one-time event or ongoing security.
- References: Request references from previous clients or employers to gauge their professionalism and reliability.
5. Check Background and References
Perform background checks on potential security guards, including criminal background checks and verifying their references. This step is crucial for ensuring the safety and integrity of the individuals you hire.
6. Review Contracts and Agreements
Before finalising the hiring process, carefully review the contract or agreement with the security company. Ensure that it includes:
- Scope of Work: Clearly define the security guard’s responsibilities and duties.
- Duration: Specify the start and end dates of the contract or the duration of service.
- Compensation: Clearly outline the payment terms and rates, including any additional costs.
- Termination Clause: Understand the conditions under which either party can terminate the agreement.
7. Monitor and Communicate
Once you’ve hired a security guard, establish open lines of communication with them and the security company. Regularly review the security measures in place and provide feedback to ensure that your security needs are being met.
8. Stay Informed About Regulations
Keep yourself informed about the latest regulations and laws related to security in the UK. Laws regarding security licensing, surveillance, and privacy can change, so staying up-to-date is essential to remain compliant.
Factors To Consider When Hiring A Security Guard
There are many different factors to consider before hiring a security guard and deciding on their role, fees, and contract agreement. We’ve listed some of the most common factors that businesses need to consider before hiring security.
- Evaluating the Duration of Security Guard Employment
- Nature of the Event or Situation
- Assessing the Services in Demand
- Impact of Location on Security Budget
- Importance of Applicable Security Expertise
1. Duration of Employment
Reflect on how long you will need the services of a security guard, as this can vary significantly depending on the job. Your requirements might range from hiring security for a single-day event, and temporary security coverage, to a permanent position. Furthermore, think about the hours you expect them to work, as this will need to be agreed upon with the guard. Generally, long-term security contracts tend to be more cost-effective, as they lower the hourly cost when the guard has guaranteed ongoing work. Conversely, short-term or last-minute contracts are pricier due to the need for greater flexibility.
2. Nature of the Event
It’s crucial to consider the type of event or situation for which you need security. While security guards are trained for various scenarios and possess a diverse range of experiences, they need advanced knowledge of what they’re walking into. Security guards can be deployed in various settings, including overseeing large public events, corporate functions, and construction sites. They excel in securing and patrolling business premises or locations anticipating large crowds. The number of security guards needed and the necessary resources depend on the specific job, so providing as much detail as possible is essential.
3. Required Services
Take into account the specific services you need, as they will influence both the cost and the type of security personnel you should hire. For instance, ensuring safety at a construction site demands a deep understanding of health and safety protocols, necessitating a larger budget. Other service options encompass routine patrols, CCTV monitoring, manned entrances, personal protection, keyholding, or K9 units. Keep in mind that utilising these services during nighttime hours typically incurs higher costs than during regular working hours.
4. Location
The location of your business or event also affects your security budget. Remote locations will require more travel time, potentially increasing expenses.
5. Relevant Experience
Preference should be given to security guards with extensive prior experience, as they possess the knowledge and skills to handle a wide range of potential issues. Additionally, verify the qualifications and certifications of your security personnel to ensure they are adequately trained. While experienced security guards may come with a higher price tag, this investment can pay dividends if unexpected situations arise.
Why Choose to Employ Security Guards?
Numerous business proprietors ponder, “Is it possible to employ security personnel?” The answer is affirmative; virtually any business can enlist security staff. Security officers serve as a valuable security measure, enhancing not only a company’s safety but also fostering a more secure work environment. Some of the advantages associated with hiring security officers encompass:
- Crime Reduction: Acting as a visual deterrent, security personnel deter potential thieves.
- Enhanced Security Presence: Guards provide a robust security presence, deterring criminals and cultivating a safer workplace.
- Risk Assessments: Security personnel evaluate and appraise a company’s existing security infrastructure through risk assessments.
- Comprehensive Protection: Guards ensure the thorough protection of all areas within a business. They accomplish this by conducting regular site patrols and employing CCTV monitoring equipment to address any blind spots.
Is it Possible to Employ Armed Security in the UK?
In the United Kingdom, it’s not feasible for businesses to hire armed security personnel. This restriction stems from stringent UK laws prohibiting the carrying of weapons and firearms.
Also Read: How to get security contracts in the UK?
Are Security Guards Considered Self-Employed?
A frequently asked question when hiring security officers pertains to their employment status – whether they are self-employed or not. The answer isn’t uniform and depends on the specific circumstances, including the type of business a guard works for and the nature of their employment contract.
Some security guards operate as self-employed individuals and secure independent contracts with establishments. Others function as “freelance” security guards hired by security firms, still classified as self-employed but obtaining work assignments through the firm.
In contrast, some guards are treated as full-fledged employees by security companies or businesses. A key distinction between employed and self-employed security guards lies in the responsibility for managing their own national insurance and tax payments, which self-employed guards handle independently, while those employed by a company do not need to concern themselves with these administrative tasks.
Do Security Guards Operate independently?
Security guards may work independently, especially when directly employed by a business, particularly in retail or small-scale enterprises where a single guard can adequately cover the premises.
In contrast, for larger events or extensive properties, it’s more likely that a team of security guards collaborates to secure the area and address potential threats. The rationale behind this is that the area’s size surpasses the capacity of a single independent security guard. Typically, in such scenarios, a security firm is contracted to provide an entire security team, ensuring a uniform adherence to established standards and guidelines.
Hire Agile Guarding for Unmatched Security Services
The UK’s hiring process for security guards is a complex and multifaceted task that requires careful planning and understanding. Security is a crucial concern for individuals and businesses, and the competence and professionalism of security guards are of utmost importance. To hire a security guard effectively, it is essential to define your security needs, research and select a suitable company, compare different service providers, and maintain open communication.
Security guards are hired to reduce crime, boost security presence, perform risk assessments, and offer comprehensive protection. While costs vary, most firms aim for competitive pricing. The UK prohibits hiring armed security due to strict weapon laws.
Agile Guarding Services Limited, established in 2011 in Bolton, is a trusted security company serving Bolton and the North West UK. Specialising in high-quality security guarding services for businesses of all sizes, our SIA-certified security guards provide impenetrable security services and we prioritise the safety of our clients’ operations.
Take the first step in securing your business or property today! Hire a security guard from Agile Guarding and experience top-tier protection and peace of mind. For your security needs, rely on Agile Guarding Services Limited. Contact us now to get started.
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