Roles & Responsibilities
Specific duties vary depending on the area of employment. For example, security guards may work in shopping centres (malls), banks, sports facilities, airports, conventions, parking lots, construction sites or public buildings such as hospitals, museums and art galleries. In general, security professionals:
- guard and patrol an assigned area
- check doors, windows, locks and building interiors for signs of damage or theft
- provide information, guide traffic or respond to complaints and maintain order
- complete continual assessment of hazards
- watch for intruders sometimes through the use of electronic surveillance systems
- observe, record and report security related activities.
In case of fire or the presence of unauthorized persons, security guards sound alarms or telephone their supervisors, fire department or police. In some situations, security guards may make arrests.
The following types of security work involve being outside and driving:
- In patrol car service, a security guard, alone or accompanied by a dog or another guard, patrols construction sites, buildings, or property, as a daily or nightly routine.
- In mobile patrol, security guards respond to alarms from businesses, residences and schools. If an actual break and enter is detected, they contact police.
- In camp or construction site guard service, security guards patrol and do gate clearance work at large construction sites or plants. This work may be seasonal with more opportunities for employment during the summer months.
Inspectors visit work sites to ensure that security employees are performing their duties and licensed under the Act.
