How to safeguard yourself as a security professional
Security is an industry that is often on the front-line, especially in events and other functions. This puts security personnel at considerable risk. They are relied on to protect buildings, assets and people. But they can also be vulnerable, especially amidst an outbreak of disease and virus.
Although many businesses have been forced to close for the duration of the lockdown, professional and opportunist vandals, arsonists, thieves and burglars are viewing this a good opportunity to target vulnerable businesses.
What makes a vulnerable business during the lockdown?
With the country in lockdown, many businesses are left empty. Due to the nature of the pandemic, the rate that it spread and with all the uncertainty, businesses have not had the time to prepare appropriately. Not all businesses had efficient security measures in place.
- No alarms
- No CCTV
- No security personnel
- No security signage
In the current circumstances, installing alarms and CCTV is not that simple, and not all businesses are in the financial position to hire security guards. This leaves them vulnerable.
With the emergency services tight up with the pandemic, many businesses are relying on bespoke and affordable security solutions, like security patrols and alarm response. This is where a professionally trained security guard will make regular patrols of the premises and ensure that everything is in order and if there is a problem, the guard will take the appropriate action.
If premises are fortunate enough to have an alarm, then security service providers can also provide a rapid alarm response service, where if any alarm were to activate, they would respond immediately. Guards will investigate the activation and take the appropriate action.
Why are security guards at risk?
As mentioned earlier, Security guards are regularly on the frontline and therefore are at the forefront of exposure. They are exposed to having to deal with situations, people and are forced to be in close proximity of other people – people who could be violent or contagious.
The government guidelines for maintaining a 2-meter distance can be complicated in this situation – especially if a security guard is confronted with a problematic situation or violent person.
What steps can security guards take to keep safe?
Maintain a distance
Although 2 meters might not be possible, guards must try to maintain some distance
PPE
Personal Protection equipment is a must. Where possible, guards should wear the appropriate PPE to ensure that they are safe.
Avoid spittle
If guards are face to face with people, they need to avoid spittle for people’s mouth being transferred on to them as this is how Covid19 and other viruses are spread.
Do not shake hands or make unnecessary contact with people
Handshaking and any other contact must be avoided.
