Security guards keep the peace in busy commercial spaces, event arenas and other public venues. Businesses rely on the presence of a security team to deter criminal activity such as theft, vandalism and assault, and visitors rely on the services of security guards to ensure they’re protected too. Security guarding continues to be a primary consideration when it comes to event planning and caring for the daily runnings of bustling areas.
It isn’t too challenging to understand security guards’ purpose and the benefits of hiring a team for your business premises or your event. It is sensible to ensure that your clients and visitors can enjoy themselves without fear of injury and that you minimise the economic losses you might see with theft. Safety always needs to be considered for you as a business owner, but you might be surprised when reading our guide to what security guards can and can’t do.
Can Perform a Citizen’s Arrest
Security guards can make a citizen’s arrest under certain conditions, but hold no more power than the general public regarding the matter. If someone is in the act of committing an offence, or a crime has been committed, and you have reasonable grounds for suspecting someone to be guilty, any member of the public would be within their right to perform an arrest. The difference is that security guards are better trained in the physical movements of performing an arrest while being in a position where they’re more likely to have to use that power. Police officers are the only people who can take physical arrest further.
Cannot use an Excessive Amount of Force
When making a citizen’s arrest, security guards, concierge security and mobile patrols can’t use an unreasonable amount of force either. Physical strength should only really be used if the suspect resists, and guards should use no additional force past the point it takes to restrain anybody arrested. Restraint should also only be used until the police can overtake the situation and escalate it further when necessary. Excessive use of force would mean that the citizen’s arrest is not lawful, which would damage the reputation of the security guard and their company.
Can Request a Physical Search
Security guards are well within their rights to request a physical search of your carried property and your person for you to enter a venue. They can also request a physical examination when you’re entering or leaving a shop on any grounds, but particularly if they have reason to suspect you’ve stolen anything. This is entirely lawful. If you reject allowing a search, security guards can refuse your entry into a venue, or detain you with reasonable force if there are grounds to suspect you’ve committed a crime.
Cannot Carry a Weapon
Since security guards hold no more power than the general public in terms of the law, they’re also not allowed to carry weapons. Whether pepper spray, batons or a gun, security guards cannot display weapons on their person as a deterrent and they certainly can’t use them. Front of house security staff is more likely to focus on conflict management tactics than physical force. Handcuffs are permitted to make a citizen’s arrest, and guards will be trained in using these efficiently and without injury, but any member of the public can technically carry these.
For further advice on developing a security strategy for your business or your event, including Keyholding & Alarm Response, Concierge Security and Mobile Patrols, contact us at Clear Watch Security. We’d be more than happy to work alongside you and protect your business, employees and visitors.
