Category: Guarding South Africa

In-House vs Contract Security – Advantages Of Contract Guarding

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Many security managers or directors have concerns that switching to a contract security provider will mean they are of lesser value to their company and risk losing their position.

However, a transfer to contract security can have the opposite effect. Security managers who outsource their security program find they no longer have to spend long, arduous hours dealing with the day-to-day challenges of managing security officers. Instead they are able to offer their skills in the more noticeable areas of security consulting and analysis. This, in turn, increases their value to the company while decreasing their security strain as they can delegate security personnel functions to the contract security firm’s management staff.

Another main cause for uncertainty by some companies to switch to contract security is the perception of a lack of quality security companies. While finding a reputable firm amongst the many security companies within the industry may be a challenge, there are some companies which operate on an advanced level. These are companies which conduct thorough background investigations and have a scrupulous process for selection of personnel. Quality companies are capable of offering competitive benefits and wages, superior training and employee development opportunities. Read about how Mantis’ security officers are PSIRA registered – ensuring you even further peace of mind.

In most cases, the cost of an outsourced security program is comparable to a company’s in-house budget. However, the added protection provided along with the elimination of other costs actually acts to reduce a company’s long-term expense. Other costs associated with in-house security budgets may include overtime wages, recruiting, background check expenses, training, uniforms and personnel for payroll services.

Benefits of Contracted Security

  • Less time spent managing security issues internally
  • Provision of security equipment; initial cost, maintenance and replacement costs are not your responsibility
  • Outsourcing of background checks, training and hiring of guards means the integrity of your contracted security guard is ensured
  • Access to a broader range of licensed security staff; if you require a higher level of security guarding, you can upscale at any time
  • Experience in security-related legal issues – less stress for you, especially if this is not your field of expertise

The most obvious reason to contract a security provider is to minimise time spent dealing with the trivia of day-to-day security issues. Contract security will generally take care of background checks, training, and hiring of security staff, as well as sourcing equipment and uniforms, providing medical insurance benefits and more. This enables your management team to focus on your core business.

Additionally, in an ever-shrinking market of qualified and quality security staff, contract security offers diversity, flexibility and greater access to human resources, especially at peak trading times. The contractor should also deal with issues of employee relations and liability management.

As long as the due diligence is carried out in establishing the contractor’s expertise and experience as it relates to your industry, and their ability to integrate into your operations as a business partner, contract security can add tremendous value to your organisation.

 

For advice, assessments or quotations, click here to get in touch with us today!

 

Source credits: https://www.tacticalsecure.com/about-us/in-house-vs-contrsct-security/

 

Security Backup: When Do You Need Extra Security?

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There are many reasons why security guards are important. They help protect businesses, schools, banks, and other important places. Not only do they protect places, but (more importantly) they also protect people. Many famous people will hire security guards known as body guards or a security guard company to protect them. Read about Mantis’s Body-guarding services here.

When a bank is bringing in money to its building, security guards are the ones moving the money and taking it into the bank. If these people did not protect the money the entire way, then there would be more robberies; these guards act as a deterrent for robbers.

However, the guards will also protect against criminals that do try to steal from places. Their job is to protect anyone or anything until the police get there. Thus, they act as a first line of defence against criminals.  Big businesses often hire security guards to make sure no one gets access to secure areas.

The need for added security isn’t always obvious. Sometimes a business may think their current security is fine only to discover too late that they needed more. So when should you consider beefing up your security team?

When Do Companies Need Extra Security?

  • Increased Security During High Profile Events

Any high profile event opens you up to numerous security concerns. From something as simple as crowd control to something as serious as preventing a terrorist attack, the more people at an event, the higher risk for something to go wrong.  Including event security guards in addition to your event staff is a good way to keep the situation under control and ensure that everyone involved remains safe.

  • Increased Security At Large Parties And Events

You don’t have to be at an event of 50,000 to be unsafe.  Problems can arise at any party or private event.  Even a larger sized wedding can end in chaos if the right security measures are not followed.  Whenever you are planning a large party or event for either business or your family, considering hiring a trusted security team to keep guests under control so everyone can have fun without fear of an unexpected issue.

  • Increased Security When Trouble Is Expected

There are times when you only know that trouble is brewing.  Maybe you have a construction site, and you have heard about other locations nearby that have been vandalized.  You could be managing a commercial building that has noticed increased panhandling outside your building.  These are all good times to consider increasing security.  There are several things the can be done to protect a construction site.  Contracting with a security firm offering construction security guards is one of them.  In the case of a commercial building, contracting with a private security firm providing building security guards is the best option.

  • Increased Security During Unusual Security Circumstances

Unusual circumstances can mean a lot of things: maybe your business is expecting a costly delivery; your warehouse contains a special delivery of inventory that is more expensive than your typical stock; you expect an influx of customers during a big sale, etc.  Any circumstance that increases your risk of theft or attack should alert you to the need for added protection.  In cases involving valuable inventory you may want to consider armed security service.

  • Increased Security When Large Amounts Of Money Are Involved

It’s Black Friday, and you suddenly have an influx of cash in your sales drawers or the person in charge of taking deposits is leaving the premises; these are all reasons to hire an extra security guard to oversee the process.

 

For information, guidance or advice on any of our services, click here to get in touch with us today!

 

 

Source credit: https://protectedbytrust.com/2016/07/03/5-times-when-extra-security-is-needed/

 

Security Backup: When Do You Need Extra Security?

Posted on | by admin

There are many reasons why security guards are important. They help protect businesses, schools, banks, and other important places. Not only do they protect places, but (more importantly) they also protect people. Many famous people will hire security guards known as body guards or a security guard company to protect them. Read about Mantis’s Body-guarding services here.

When a bank is bringing in money to its building, security guards are the ones moving the money and taking it into the bank. If these people did not protect the money the entire way, then there would be more robberies; these guards act as a deterrent for robbers.

However, the guards will also protect against criminals that do try to steal from places. Their job is to protect anyone or anything until the police get there. Thus, they act as a first line of defence against criminals.  Big businesses often hire security guards to make sure no one gets access to secure areas.

The need for added security isn’t always obvious. Sometimes a business may think their current security is fine only to discover too late that they needed more. So when should you consider beefing up your security team?

When Do Companies Need Extra Security?

  • Increased Security During High Profile Events

Any high profile event opens you up to numerous security concerns. From something as simple as crowd control to something as serious as preventing a terrorist attack, the more people at an event, the higher risk for something to go wrong.  Including event security guards in addition to your event staff is a good way to keep the situation under control and ensure that everyone involved remains safe.

  • Increased Security At Large Parties And Events

You don’t have to be at an event of 50,000 to be unsafe.  Problems can arise at any party or private event.  Even a larger sized wedding can end in chaos if the right security measures are not followed.  Whenever you are planning a large party or event for either business or your family, considering hiring a trusted security team to keep guests under control so everyone can have fun without fear of an unexpected issue.

  • Increased Security When Trouble Is Expected

There are times when you only know that trouble is brewing.  Maybe you have a construction site, and you have heard about other locations nearby that have been vandalized.  You could be managing a commercial building that has noticed increased panhandling outside your building.  These are all good times to consider increasing security.  There are several things the can be done to protect a construction site.  Contracting with a security firm offering construction security guards is one of them.  In the case of a commercial building, contracting with a private security firm providing building security guards is the best option.

  • Increased Security During Unusual Security Circumstances

Unusual circumstances can mean a lot of things: maybe your business is expecting a costly delivery; your warehouse contains a special delivery of inventory that is more expensive than your typical stock; you expect an influx of customers during a big sale, etc.  Any circumstance that increases your risk of theft or attack should alert you to the need for added protection.  In cases involving valuable inventory you may want to consider armed security service.

  • Increased Security When Large Amounts Of Money Are Involved

It’s Black Friday, and you suddenly have an influx of cash in your sales drawers or the person in charge of taking deposits is leaving the premises; these are all reasons to hire an extra security guard to oversee the process.

 

For information, guidance or advice on any of our services, click here to get in touch with us today!

 

 

Source credit: https://protectedbytrust.com/2016/07/03/5-times-when-extra-security-is-needed/

 

Does Your Company Need a Security Guard? 5 Simple Questions to Determine Your Need for Increased Security

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Safe-guarding your place of business and making sure it is maintained as a safe and secure environment should never be taken lightly. On-site security professionals that have been trained to provide a uniformed presence can be a great asset when it comes to deterring criminal activity.

Having a security officer onsite can also help with any situations or circumstances that might give you cause for concern and will be noted and detailed in written reports, a valuable asset should there be further issues or problems. Working with an onsite security company will ensure you are provided with superior resources and can do much to improve your level of safety.

How to Determine If You Need a Security Guard at Your Company

  • Is Your Company Located in a High Crime Area?

High crime doesn’t necessarily mean a bad neighbourhood. It could also include a warehouse located in a sparsely-populated rural area, for instance. There is a potential for a higher number of break-ins in that case as well.

  • Are You Experiencing Retail Theft And Shrinkage?

Data revealed that retailers in the USA lost nearly $44 billion from theft in 2014 (that’s around R 580 907 800 000.00 – or five-hundred and eighty billion, nine-hundred million, eight-hundred-thousand – and a few rands) with 34 percent of that number coming from employees. As such, practically any retail setting would benefit from the presence of a security guard.

A well-trained, licensed guard will take steps to limit liability and reduce shrinkage, saving the business money. That’s a fact the small business owner shouldn’t miss when considering hiring a security company.

  • Do You Have Concern Over Safety Issues?

If you think you have one or two safety issues, in reality, you probably have dozens. Having someone dedicated to safety, who knows what to look for, who can pick apart what’s safe and unsafe and needs to be improved upon is very useful. A security guard would know what to look for.

  • Do You Serve Alcohol on the Premises?

Anywhere alcohol is served, especially in excess, is a good place to have a security guard present. A business’s liability can get expensive if a fight breaks out resulting in injury to persons or property. The guard’s presence acts as a deterrent. He can move quickly to prevent incidents before they escalate.

  • Do You Have Building Traffic Concerns?

Businesses that have a lot of people entering and exiting a building can utilize guards to monitor traffic, check people in and out and give out IDs or name tags.

The physical presence of a professional, courteous guard puts the public at ease and creates a safer environment that criminals will be less inclined to target. It also sends a signal that you care about public safety and are taking steps to protect your customers or visitors.

Why not consider contracting a security guard to your business? Click here for advice and quotations today!

 

Source credits: http://www.sterlingprotective.com/news/does-my-company-need-a-security-guard/

https://smallbiztrends.com/2016/12/why-hire-a-security-guard.html

Benefits of Having a Security Guard at Your Business Premises

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Whether you operate a large commercial building in a less-than-desirable area, or a tiny uptown boutique selling high-end merchandise, one of your primary goals as a business owner should be to ensure the safety of your employees and clients.  Similar to the feeling of seeing police cars late at night or having an alarm system for your home, having security guards protecting your business will put you and your clients at ease.

What are the biggest advantages of having a security guard at your business premises?

  • Hiring a Security Guard Provides a Sense of Security

The presence of a security guard at a business can provide peace of mind and a sense of security to the business owner, employees and customers. Employees that work in high-risk areas are more productive and easier to retain when they don’t have to worry about personal safety. It also lets customers know that you are concerned about their safety and willing to take steps to ensure it. This may be particularly important for businesses that deal in very high-end merchandise or are located in high-crime / high-risk areas.

  • Hiring a Security Guard Prevents and Deters Crime

Simply having a security guard present is a great deterrent to crime. Thieves will think twice about targeting a business that has uniformed protection. Professional guards are trained to look for suspicious activity on the spot. They can assess a situation and react to security breaches. A guard is a greater visual deterrent than just camera surveillance or a standard security system. It sends a message to potential criminals that you are serious about the security of your business.

  • Hiring a Security Guard Supports Customer Service

Security guards can also be customer service ambassadors. A guard may man a front desk or act as a sentry to control access to an area. This can mean that there is a substantial amount of interaction with customers and clients. Guards may be able to help direct people to find products and get to the right location in a business. Guard can also be available as escorts for customers and employees to get to their cars after dark. Hiring personable and capable guards lets you communicate that your business is secure and customer-oriented.

  • Hiring a Security Guard Helps in Handling and Curbing Crime

Security guards can receive varying levels of training when it comes to actively responding to a crime. Some may simply take down details and contact the police. Some may be able to detain suspects. It is up to the business to decide whether to have an armed or unarmed guard, and what procedures should be in place for handling a suspect should a crime occur. Hiring a trained and licensed guard from a reputable company can ensure that the guard behaves capably and sensibly when faced with criminal activity on business premises.

  • Hiring a Security Guard Assists with Monitoring

Not all security guards spend all their time on active patrol of a business property. A security professional may be employed to monitor video surveillance, check credentials, check for contraband or restrict access to an area. A security guard may have specific goals, such as watching for shoplifters, keeping an eye on the grounds after hours, and opening or closing a business for the day. These monitoring duties take a lot of security responsibility off the shoulders of the business owner and employees, and allows them to focus on their jobs.

 

For information, assessments or general advice, click here to get in touch with us today!

 

Source credits: http://smallbusiness.chron.com/benefits-having-security-guard-business-2386.html

http://smallbusiness.chron.com/benefits-having-security-guard-business-2386.html

Businesses That Need Security Guards – Which Industries Are At A Higher Security Risk In South Africa?

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Some business simply require a higher level of security than others; the sweet shop down the road is far less likely to experience an armed ambush when compared to a high-end jewellery store. Which businesses are more prone to theft and crime in South Arica (and globally?)

  • Businesses That Need Security Guards: Construction Sites

Within today’s society, a construction company cannot rely solely on police for security. If left unattended, a construction site could lay victim to vandalism, crime, and theft.

  • Businesses That Need Security Guards: Health Care Centres

Many unique security challenges impact health care facilities. With a constant flow of patients, employed staff and visitors, this fast-paced environment requires uncompromising attention to discretion and confidentiality.

  • Businesses That Need Security Guards: Retail (and Wholesale) Establishments

A security guard’s main job in a retail establishment is to keep a watchful eye on staff, stock and customers. Within the retail environment, it is the duty of the guard to protect both the safety and well-being of both customers as well as employees.

  • Businesses That Need Security Guards: Manufacturing and Industrial Companies

Manufacturing corporations are becoming prime targets of vandalism, theft, disputes, property damage and equipment theft and tampering. A security guard can log vehicle entry and exit of the building, verify drivers and clear visitors and direct contractors to their appropriate locations.

  • Businesses That Need Security Guards: Museums

Museum security guards have knowledge about the overall protection and conservation of important items. A museum security guard can keep valuable and some priceless art and exhibits safe from thievery, damage, and tampering.

  • Businesses That Need Security Guards: Financial Facilities

People, customers and the operational information of a financial institution all need to be protected. Security guards provide solutions like; access control, armed / unarmed guarding services, monitoring security electronics, patrol, parking security and workplace violence prevention.

  • Businesses That Need Security Guards: Hotels and Hospitality

Hotel guests bring valuables into their rooms and it is the job of the guard to ensure they are staying in a secured environment. Hotel security guards also patrol the hotel and respond to complaints and calls for help.

  • Businesses That Need Security Guards: Education Institutes and Public Schools

Considering that education institutions and public schools house very important people, children both young and old, it may be the place security is needed the most. Due to a rise of fatal shootings, drugs and safety issues, schools may need to provide security to patrol the institution and surrounding area.

  • Businesses That Need Security Guards: Residential and Retirement Communities

Feeling safe where you and your children live is one of the most important things that hiring security will provide for families. Security companies can provide custom solutions to ensure peace of mind to residents. Theft, vandalism, and trespassing are significantly reduced.

Overall, all businesses can benefit from security guard protection. Whether vehicle or foot patrol, guards are trained to keep a watchful eye and are versatile in various circumstances. Security guards are a resource that may ensure your business remains secure one.

To find out more about our security offerings., click here to get in touch with us today!

 

Source credit: https://rabidofficemonkey.com/10-businesses-can-benefit-security-guards/

Contract Security – Contract Guarding Benefits

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With home robberies on the rise, increasing by 69.8 percent in the past nine years according to the South African Police Service’s latest crime statistics (as excerpted from this News24.com article), residential security is a growing concern for most South Africans.

While body corporates (in cases of complexes and estates) do not need to be registered with the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA), it is legally obliged to ensure that its security provider or security guards are registered and PSIRA compliant.

Although complexes have traditionally been perceived as more secure, offering resident’s greater peace of mind – this is changing, and home robberies in complexes are increasing. Homeowners in complexes and estates are often complacent, relying on the trustees or estate directors, who are not necessarily experienced in this area, to take care of security. But be warned, if your trustees are employing and managing their own security guards, this could potentially be a recipe for disaster.

Benefits of Contract Security

  • Benefits of Contract Security: Ease of Administration of Security Program

Business owners, estate managers, body corporate and homeowners alike should stick to their core competency to maximize results.  Everyone should by now have realized the value of outsourcing – whether it’s bookkeeping, IT or building maintenance business owners of this generation understand the importance of focusing on their specialty and hiring other experts to support them. The management team of a professional security firm should make a business manager’s life easier by relieving them of the stress of managing their security department.

  • Benefits of Contract Security: Guard Staffing Flexibility

Contract security guard firms have a deeper bench of talent to draw from.  If your Security Guard is going to be out ill or taking leave, that firm has other officers that can be pulled in to provide coverage during the absence.  If your business has a special event requiring extra security coverage, your contract security firm can easily bring in additional guards to support you during this time.

  • Benefits of Contract Security: Impartiality of Security Officers

It is often suggested that contract guards can more effectively enforce regulations and procedures than an internal employee.  Guards employed by a different employer have less loyalty or feelings of influence by in-house employees.  Their job loyalty is to the guard services firm that can easily move them to another location as necessary.  This produces a more consistently impartial performance of duty.

  • Benefits of Contract Security: Expertise & Training of Guards

When contracting with a security firm, you are not only hiring a security guard, but the expertise of the management team.  These managers should be your consultants, assisting in developing, implementing and refining security policies and procedures regularly.  Their experience in working with clients across the community should provide them insights that can be brought to benefit in your organization as well.  Look for a management team that is active in the security industry and participates in continuing education on a regular basis.

Contract security firms are experienced in teaching Security Officers regularly.  They have established curriculum and materials that meet or exceed industry standards.  Professional trainers are able to modify their standard training programs to meet the specific needs of your organization.

  • Benefits of Contract Security: Cost of Security Program

Most experts agree that contract guard services are less expensive than a proprietary unit.  These cost savings occur in several areas.  Most security guards receive fewer fringe benefits than the in-house personnel of a company.  More importantly, specialized security firms are able to achieve efficiencies in management and operation of a guard force that most businesses cannot achieve.  Training cost and quality can be greatly improved by a firm that specializes in conducting security training on a regular basis for larger numbers of Officers.  Guard services firms have the resources to develop appropriate equipment and training materials more efficiently.

Why not get yourself a risk-free assessment for hiring Mantis’ trained, professional contract guards? Click here to get in touch today!

 

Source credit: https://bossecurity.com/2013/09/18/advantages-of-using-contract-vs-in-house-security-guards/

Security Companies South Africa – How is Mantis Security Ensuring your Safety?

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Through Mantis’ threat mitigation and management plan, you can be assured that your security needs will not only be covered, but they will be assessed and forecast in order to not only prevent and deter crime, but be ahead of the curve in future risk mitigation.

An initial thorough risk analysis and a dynamic threat mitigation and management plan will ensure that all threats are timeously identified, suitably mitigated and/or professionally managed.

The multi-layered approach allows for the full integration of all individual security elements, ensuring the delay, timely detection and appropriate response to any security related threat. In addition, this approach affords the client the opportunity to make changes to individual layers without compromising the integrity of the overall security, thus minimizing the potential resource wastage associated with ‘pre-manufactured’ security solutions.

A multi-layered approach allows for protection of all Personnel, Assets and Information by integrating the other associated HSSEC components of:

  • Health and safety in terms of the OSHAS act and other relevant legislation
  • Medical incidents
  • Fire prevention and management
  • Contingency planning
  • Natural disasters
  • Terrorism and terrorist related activities
  • Specific action plans to address the threat analysis

Mantis Security – Intelligence in Security Showcases 4-Tier Approach to Full Spectrum Security

Intelligence
Collating own intelligence through regular patrols
Looking at trends in incidents to identify risks
Attending CPO Forum Meetings to gain first-hand feedback directly from the community
Attending Police Forum Meetings to be aware of new trends in all areas.

Outer Perimeter
This layer includes all physical barriers for the purpose of deterrence, detection and delay:
Checks carried out include: Perimeter fencing (single or multiple layers) | Penetration prevention (checking for “weak” spots | Control points (booms, gates, access control points, etc.) | Lighting | CCTV Cameras (monitored on-site or off-site) | Outer perimeter patrols ( armed, unarmed, with or without canine security services)

Inner Perimeter
This layer includes all measures for the purpose of detection and intervention.

Lighting

Beams | CCTV Cameras | ATV (All-Terrain-Vehicle) patrols, foot patrols, and or equestrian mounted patrols (all armed or unarmed). Foot patrols and equestrian patrols may also be carried out (with or without additional canine security) | Intruder alarm systems integrated with pepper gas.

High-Risk Areas
This layer includes all measures for the purpose of deterrence, detection and immediate intervention. | Static / stationary guards (armed or unarmed and with or without canine security) | Control points (boom gates, access control points, etc.) | Lighting | Armed response

 

For any info on the services listed above, click here to get in touch with us today.

 

PSIRA Guard Grading – What Your Symbol Symbolises

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The mandate of the Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority – or PSIRA as we know it – is derived from the Private Security Industry Regulatory Act 56 of 2001. The primary objective of the Authority is to regulate the private security industry and to exercise effective control over the practice of the occupation of security service provider in the public and national interest and in the interest of the private security industry itself.

PSIRA Trained Security Officers – Mantis Security

One of the objects of the Authority is to promote high standards in the training of security service providers and prospective security service providers. Training service providers are required by law to be registered and accredited with PSIRA before services are offered.

Key functions of PSIRA regarding Training:

  • Determine minimum statutory training standards for the industry
  • Accreditation of training centres and instructors to present PSIRA statutory courses which includes Grades E-A, Assets in Transit, Reaction Services, Event Security, Dog Handlers
  • Evaluation and processing of course reports
  • Liaison with SAQA, QCTO and SASSETA in respect of the development of NQF qualifications and programs for all categories or classes of security service providers
  • Recognition of Prior Learning

PSIRA Guard Grading – How Does it Work?

The roles and responsibilities of guards differ and are dependent on the grade that the guard has obtained. The lowest grade for security officers in South Africa is grade D, with the highest being grade A.

PSIRA Grade D Security Guards

Grade D security officers’ main function is access control.

PSIRA Grade C Security Guards

A Grade C security officer’s main function is access control of a higher risk area and supervision of lower grade security officers.

PSIRA Grade B Security Guards

A Grade B security officers’ main function is access control in high-risk areas where documentation and basic computer skills might be required.

  • A site or shift commander.
  • Managing of lower grade security officers.
  • Possible inspector doing site visits.

PSIRA Grade A Security Guards

A Grade A security officers’ main function would normally be a site manager or commander.

  • Controlling and managing a number of functions.
  • Managing the security workforce
  • Conducting risk assessments and evaluations on site daily.
  • Basic investigative skills.
  • Problem solving.
  • Designing security solutions.

 

All of Mantis security’s armed and unarmed security officers are PSIRA accredited and compliant; for information, guidance or individual pricing, click here to get in touch with us today!

Information sourced from PSIRA.co.za

 

Armed vs Unarmed Security – How to Choose your level of Security

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Upon first consideration, it may seem obvious that armed guards would provide more security than unarmed ones. Dig a little deeper, however, and you will see that the decision between armed vs unarmed security guards is not so clear-cut.

How can you choose the best type of guard for your setting? In deciding to provide security for your business, one of the decisions you’ll have to make is whether or not to use an armed guard rather than an unarmed one. There are some advantages and disadvantages to each, and here are a few things you should consider in order to make the right decision.

Threat Level: If the possibility of your employees or customers becoming a victim of crime is relatively low, hiring an armed guard may not be necessary. On the other hand, if there’s a medium to high risk, hiring an armed guard might be best if you are to deter would-be criminals. The presence of an armed guard is normally enough to prevent most people from committing theft, vandalism or even acts of violence, and can go a long way toward ensuring everyone on your premises is safe.

Type of Business or Activity: The type of business or activity you operate can also play a part, as the presence of an armed guard can be alarming in certain circumstances. For example, if your establishment primarily provides entertainment, having an armed guard present can put a damper on your patron’s moods, and make them less likely to enjoy themselves. On the other hand, an armed guard could make people feel more secure at an apartment complex or hotel, which in turn would make your property more desirable than others.

Cost and Training: As a rule, armed guards tend to undergo a more rigorous training program than unarmed guards do. They are also more likely to have a background in the military or law enforcement. They will also cost more due to the added training requirements, and may come with an additional insurance liability as well.

Consider Armed Guards in the Following Circumstances

In some settings, armed guards are the best fit for the security needs of the facility or event. The decision to use armed personnel should be made with careful consideration and a high regard for safety and security.

  • Use Armed Guards When Priceless Valuables Are Involved

There are some treasures that require the highest level of safekeeping. If your goal in hiring security guards is to protect valuables of great worth, such as priceless jewels or art, you may want to consider armed guards.

The presence of security guards who carry lethal weapons may discourage attempts at theft or other crimes. If someone does attempt to vandalize or steal the valuables, an armed guard can match the weapons of the criminals, who may well be armed themselves.

  • Use Armed Guards When Violent Situations Often Occur or Are Likely to Occur

Some settings are more prone to violent outbreaks than others.

One example is establishments in high-crime areas, particularly ones that operate during late-night hours, such as bars and nightclubs. Another example is hospital emergency rooms, especially those that frequently treat those involved in gang fights or other criminal activities.

When determining whether to put armed guards in your violence-prone location, consider whether the presence of armed guards will serve to diffuse tension and safeguard against violence or whether the sight of a gun may provoke further escalation.

There is no hard-and-fast rule for this; you must evaluate the specifics of your situation to determine what is best.

  • Use Armed Guards When the Guards Will Be Behind the Scenes

Although armed security guards may put business owners at ease, knowing that their goods and property are securely protected, they can also set clients and customers on edge.

Seeing an armed guard may introduce the thought that the business is not a safe place to be, so the security team must carry guns in order to protect it.

Therefore, armed guards are often best used in behind-the-scenes roles, rather than directly in the public’s eye. They can quickly appear on the scene when needed, but until then, they are able to remain out of sight of the general public.

Consider Unarmed Guards in the Following Circumstances

Although some situations warrant the use of armed security personnel, many settings can be kept secure without the use of lethal force. Business owners and event organizers can rest assured that unarmed guards provide sufficient security in most scenarios.

  • Use Unarmed Guards When You Want to Save Money

As a general rule, armed guards cost more than unarmed ones. For those on a limited budget, this may automatically make unarmed guards the most logical choice.

Beyond the increased hourly fee for armed guards, there may also be other costs that come with hiring armed security. For example, if you keep an armed detail on your premises, your insurance costs may go up.

  • Use Unarmed Guards When You Want to Avoid Liability

Property owners may be held liable for the actions of the security guards on their grounds. If an armed guard shoots someone and causes injury or death, you could be held responsible.

If you are not comfortable with this level of liability, consider hiring unarmed security, which can use non-lethal weapons to deter crime and violence. These may include tasers, batons and sprays: effective without being deadly.

If you do choose to accept the responsibility that comes with hiring armed guards, ensure they are licensed and have met at least the minimum requirements for armed security in your state.

  • Use Unarmed Guards if Access to Law Enforcement Is Quick

If police officers can be quickly deployed to your site, you may not need armed guards. Instead, set your unarmed security team up with communications tools with which they can get in touch with police.

For settings in which multiple unarmed security guards are on site, they should also have an easy way to communicate with one another, such as two-way radios.

This allows the guards to call for on-site backup in emergency situations. With backup, guards may be able to diffuse the tension on their own or maintain the situation until police arrive.

How to Make the Final Decision – Armed vs Unarmed Security

So how can you decide which type of security guards are best for your situation? There are circumstances that will be best served by armed guards, while in other settings unarmed guards are best. You will have to weigh the various factors for your particular situation when making a decision.

You don’t have to make this decision alone, however. The security company you hire can be a valuable source of information. Ask their experts for advice on whether armed or unarmed guards are best for your setting.

By evaluating the specific factors at play at your event or facility and considering the expert input of a security firm, you can make an informed, reliable decision about the best approach for your needs.

 

Why not get in touch with us today to discuss your specific guarding or security needs? Click here to leave your details, and a friendly consultant will call you back.

 

Source credits: https://apbguards.com/armed-vs-unarmed-security-guards/

Unarmed vs. Armed Guard: How to Choose