The Covid 19 pandemic has impacted businesses and disrupted economies the world over. One industry where employees have seen an unprecedented and sudden change in their job responsibilities is the security industry. More importantly, Covid 19 has exposed gaps and weaknesses in organizational safety and security. While some businesses such as hotels and shopping malls have seen a reduction in security guards due to the reduced number of visitors, in many areas, security services are now being viewed as more vital than ever before.
Traditionally, businesses have been concerned about the physical security of employees from criminal and accidental standpoints. But the pandemic has highlighted the need for strong and efficient security systems in organizations of all sizes for protecting people and maintaining business continuity.
The Traditional Duties of Security Guards
Over the years, security guards have been involved in various core duties on the job. The typical roles they have undertaken include:
- Managing the security of the premises.
- Patrolling and monitoring sites.
- Crowd and traffic control
- Maintaining CCTV systems and surveillance equipment.
- Controlling site access.
- Keeping track of any suspicious activity.
- Liaising with the authorities in emergency situations.
- Upholding safety regulations and requirements.
The role of a security guard has now evolved into a key front line position. Security personnel have been charged with explaining and implementing new systems with employees and visitors and dealing with any resistance to safety protocols.
With most retail and public spaces closed during the lockdown, there has been an increased demand for mobile patrols & CCTV monitoring to ensure the security of empty and closed commercial, retail, or office premises.
How Covid-19 Has Changed the Security Guard Duties
Security guards have undergone extensive shifts in duties as a result of the pandemic. Some changes they have adapted to include the following.
- Enforcing new safety regulations for organizations and retail spaces.
- Understanding and implementing new social security measures such as visitor number restrictions, face masks, distancing and sanitizing.
- Screening visitors. Increased communication with visitors and company staff.
- Understanding and implementing new social security measures such as visitor number restrictions, face masks, distancing and sanitizing.
- Assisting those most vulnerable in navigating new security protocols.
- Responding to a higher demand in mobile patrols and fire safety roles to safeguard vacant premises.
The Way Forward
COVID-19 has exposed security gaps in many organizations, disrupted traditional business practices, and offered an opportunity to adapt and grow. During this time, security officers and contractors have played a vital role in business continuity. A specialized security guard service offers organizations the opportunity to protect their employees from threats and concerns and position the organization itself to excel.
Fortunately, some US security companies were already equipped with future-proof technology that helped them respond quickly to new security challenges posed by Covid 19. Technology has helped in keeping security guards safe as they work to ensure safety for others. By adopting readily-available technology such as video surveillance and mobile-optimized cloud applications, security companies can provide more effective and valuable security services during the pandemic.
A security service adds great value to an organization by preparing for business safety, preventing and responding to physical, cyber and human threats. The right security service can bring your organization a step closer to uncompromised safety, security, and success.
