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6 types of guarding services your business needs in the UK
In the ever-changing and competitive business environment of today, prioritising the safety and security of your organisation is of utmost importance. With numerous potential threats and risks looming, guarding services emerge as an indispensable line of defence. These services play a pivotal role in shielding businesses from harm and providing a secure environment for their smooth operation. Therefore, it is essential to familiarise ourselves with the primary types of guarding services commonly offered in the UK. By understanding the distinct capabilities of each type, we can effectively fortify our business premises, protect valuable assets, and ensure the well-being of our employees and staff.
1. Armed Security Guards (Commissioned Officers)
Commissioned Officers, also known as armed security guards, are highly trained professionals in the security industry who have the authority to carry firearms and exercise arrest powers. Their primary responsibilities include ensuring the safety and security of the premises they are assigned to, managing access points and screening individuals, conducting patrols and surveillance to detect security breaches, documenting and reporting incidents, and collaborating with law enforcement agencies when required. Commissioned Officers operate within legal frameworks and regulations and their specific duties may vary based on the organisation they work for and the nature of their security assignment.
The guards typically undergo extensive training before they are authorised to handle firearms. Before becoming armed security guards, they are required to complete a comprehensive training program offered by a security school. This program consists of approximately thirty hours of rigorous training. It is essential to source armed guards from security services that employ a thorough interview process to assess the guard’s competence and ensure their proficiency in firearm usage. Additionally, it is crucial to ensure that every security professional is well-versed in carrying out guidelines and adheres to strict weapon safety protocols.
2. Unarmed Security Guards (Non-Commissioned Officers)
Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs), or unarmed security guards, are essential for maintaining safety and security in various settings. They are responsible for surveillance and monitoring, ensuring access control, conducting patrols and inspections, managing crowd control and providing assistance, responding to emergencies, maintaining incident reports, and delivering customer service. NCOs do not carry firearms or have arrest powers, but they play a crucial role in maintaining a secure environment through their watchful presence and professional conduct. Specific duties may vary depending on the organisation and assignment.
The training requirements for these guards are not as demanding as those for armed guards. By completing the level II training course provided by the Private Security Bureau, a security guard is equipped to commence work and fulfill their responsibilities as a construction site security officer or parking lot security officer. To ensure optimal performance, it is advisable to hire guards from reputable security firms. This is because guards employed by legitimate security firms possess greater experience and expertise in their field.
3. Personal Security Guards
Personal Security Guards operate similarly to other types of guarding services but their expertise is in providing protection services to individuals. They are commonly hired by high-profile individuals, executives, celebrities, and individuals with security concerns. Their main role is to ensure the safety and well-being of their clients by assessing risks, offering close protection, and implementing security measures.
Personal Security Guards accompany clients wherever they go, actively assessing potential threats and taking proactive steps to prevent harm. They conduct thorough threat assessments, develop personalised security plans, and employ advanced surveillance techniques. In times of crisis, they respond swiftly and effectively, utilising crisis management strategies to protect their clients. Additionally, Personal Security Guards may handle public interactions, safeguard client privacy, and assist with crowd control.
The precise responsibilities of Personal Security Guards may vary depending on the specific needs of their clients and the nature of the security assignment. These highly trained professionals prioritise client safety, providing reassurance, and maintaining a secure environment.
4. Mobile Patrol Guards
Mobile patrol security guards are trained specialists who regularly patrol various premises, including residential, commercial, and industrial areas, to ensure safety and security. They actively monitor and identify suspicious activities or breaches to maintain a secure environment. Unlike stationary security guards, mobile patrol guards move around using vehicles or on foot, covering a larger area. They follow specific routes and schedules to create a visible security presence and deter potential threats. Mobile patrol guards are also available to respond promptly to alarms or emergencies, effectively addressing any security incidents that occur.
The responsibilities of mobile patrol security guards include visually inspecting premises, monitoring surveillance systems, and reporting any unusual incidents. They enforce security protocols and assist individuals when needed.
Mobile patrol security guards are important in proactively identifying and managing security risks, and maintaining a secure environment. Their mobility allows them to cover a wider area, acting as a deterrent against criminal activities and ensuring swift responses to security incidents.
Mobile patrol security guards conduct regular patrols of your office and home premises using a dedicated vehicle, ensuring constant surveillance for any signs of suspicious activity or potential threats. Unlike stationary guards, mobile patrols follow specific schedules and respond to emergency calls. One can hire a permanent security patrol guard or unit to provide round-the-clock surveillance, or you can opt for a mobile patrol unit that visits your chosen location at predetermined intervals on specific days.
5. Remote CCTV Monitor Guards
Remote CCTV Monitor Guards are security experts who specialise in remotely overseeing closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. Their main responsibility is to remotely observe and analyse live video feeds from CCTV cameras situated at different locations or premises. Instead of being physically present on-site, they conduct monitoring activities from a centralised control room or monitoring station. They work in collaboration with the ground security guard and promptly inform them if they notice anything unusual. This efficient communication helps reduce response time and resolves the situation quickly and effectively. Moreover, their teamwork ensures that safety standards are upheld. In the event of an armed perpetrator, the monitoring guard alerts the on-site security guard, enabling them to approach with caution.
While these are the main types of guards you may encounter, it is essential to prioritise their training and skills. It is advisable to select experienced guards and assess their track record to ensure they have the necessary abilities to protect your property and everyone on the premises. Employing security guards is beneficial, and it is also recommended to implement additional security measures like CCTV cameras, fencing, locks, and signage.
Signage plays a significant role in enhancing site security by providing crucial guidance to both the guard and individuals present on how to respond if they come across a burglar. By effectively utilising signage, you not only improve site protection but also empower the guard and people on-site with the knowledge of appropriate actions to take in such situations.
6. Government Contract Security Guards
Unlike the other types of guarding services, the Government Contract Security Guards are employed to provide security to government entities by private security companies. They work in government buildings, military installations, embassies, and public facilities to ensure the safety of personnel, property, and sensitive information.
Their responsibilities include maintaining security, enforcing access control, conducting patrols, and responding to incidents. They also screen individuals, inspect vehicles, and implement government-specific security protocols. Government Contract Security Guards receive specialised training to meet government standards and may need specific certifications or clearances. These types of security guards can work in a variety of settings. Their primary responsibility is to secure a specific site or facility, such as courthouses or military command centres. If a high-risk situation arises, they may be called upon to defend personnel and property.
In addition to the standard abilities necessary in the sector, Government Security Guards must have a “clean” criminal record before being hired. Those with criminal records are frequently ruled out as prospective candidates.
Are you in need of any of these security solutions for your business?
The safety and security of businesses in the UK should never be overlooked. Deploying the right types of guarding services is vital for protecting your organisation from potential threats. Whether it’s unarmed or armed security guards, mobile patrol guards, government contract security guards, event security guards, or personal security guards, each type serves a unique purpose in bolstering your business’s security posture.
Agile Guarding specialises in offering customised security solutions to guarantee the safety of your staff and premises. With our extensive experience, we have been collaborating with clients and providing all the essential security services required for their specific needs.
Get in touch with our security specialist immediately to talk about your security needs.
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