What There Is to Know About Security Guards

Security guards are usually privately and officially employed persons who are paid to protect properties, or people. Oftentimes, these security officers wear uniforms and protect property or people by maintaining high visibility to discourage illegal and improper deeds. They observe (through patrols or by watching video cameras) for signs of crime, fire or disorder. If such situations occur, they take action and report these incidents to their client, as well as their security firm, as needed. In earlier years, watchman or night watchman was the most popular term for security officers until it was replaced.

Types of Security Services

There are many different kinds of security services that guards provide

• Personal security, which is often called a personal protection officer or bodyguard, as his main concern is the bodily safety of the person that he is working for. He shadows the activities of his employer, always watching out for signs of danger.


• Corporate security, which protects the individual and also protects property.


• Private security which is handled by a private employer, such as a private business or organization.


• Government security or those who serves to protect government properties and the safety of all citizens in the area.


• Static security which always stays in one area or post throughout his shift.


• Mobile security which is the opposite of the static guard as he always walks, rides a horse or drives a motorized vehicle around his area and inspects it for potential security threats.

Types of Security Services

Security officers offer a variety of services, either to an establishment or to an individual. They can serve as store detectives, as well as stop and search guards. They can also maintain CCTVs. They can act as bodyguards to important people. There are a lot more services depending on what training they have undergone or whether they are armed security guards or unarmed ones.

Laws Pertaining to Security

Federal labor laws cover private security firms which provide guards for private corporations, as well as guards in the public sector. The Federal Labor Standards Act is the basic law for security guards. This law covers security guards whose employer earns more than $500,000 annually. Aside from FLSA, states may also create laws of their own, to protect the welfare of security guards in the area. The FLSA covers minimum wage and overtime pay, hours worked and security guard posts as well as security uniforms.

Careers in the Security Industry

The security industry offers terrific career potential. The demand for security is ever increasing. The prospects for employment in this field are great. Employers often train new hires so there is limited start up costs associated with this career. Formal college education is not required. Employers often pay for training, uniforms, weapons and all licensing. Pay for a guard is moderate and steady and often includes paid time off, holiday pay, and health insurance. You can find stable employment, work in a respective environment and earn a decent living by becoming a security guard.

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