Having the right equipment can help to protect security guards as well as provide them with the tools to carry out their work effectively. Here are seven essential pieces of kit for security guards to reduce the risk of their work.
Two-Way Radio
It’s crucial for security guards to be in touch with each other in order to maintain safety. Two-way radios are often used by those working in retail or events and close protection officers to enable then to quickly call for support.
Smartphone
Along with a radio, smartphones have become an essential item, providing guards with access to a camera and the internet, and they can also use apps to assist them, such as rapid recording apps to quickly report and capture events.
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Body Worn Cameras
Body worn cams, such as those available at https://www.pinnacleresponse.com/body-worn-cameras, are increasingly being used by security guards in a range of environments to provide additional protection from violence and offer evidence of incidents. For example, Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust in London provided its security personnel with these body worn cams after a 27{c0ab263b3175d981033b17d6eec654a369e659a5af23b80a9510e95dedf16ccb} rise in violent and abusive behaviour from visitors between April and September 2016 compared with the same period the previous year.
Torch
This might be a simple item, but a torch can be extremely useful for guards working at night or in case of a power cut. However, they can also be of use as a self-defence tool – either to dazzle an attacker or for physical protection.
Lone-Worker Alarm
Typically security guards work alone, often late at night, which can put them at an increased risk. The technology behind lone-worker protection systems enables them to be monitored remotely through an app, so the location of personnel can be checked and, if necessary, an alarm can quickly be raised.
SIA Licence
The majority of security personnel will require an SIA Licence in order to work, and this should be worn clearly at all times.
Protective Clothing
By wearing high-vis clothing, security guards can easily be seen by both members of the public to provide them with reassurance and also any potential criminals, which could deter them from trying anything. In some instances, it might also be necessary to have a ballistic or stab-proof vest, depending on the level of risk they face.