Security guard: how to train and review the role
Stands post at a gate, lobby, factory, society or site: checks people and vehicles, keeps registers, watches for threats and follows the post orders. Reports to the site supervisor and is on his own much of the shift.
Not sure what you need? Tell us about your business in six short steps and we will come to the first meeting prepared.
Share your requirementsWho usually fills this role
Most are school-pass men from villages and small towns, many ex-servicemen, and some with earlier guard work. At hiring, check identity and character references, fitness, ability to read and write the register, alertness and temperament. Test how they would handle a known person without a pass.
Skills ladder
Stage 1
New joiner
- Checks entry and exit against post orders
- Fills registers legibly
- Stays alert and reports unusual things
Stage 2
Independent
- Handles visitors, vehicles and material firmly and politely
- Responds to alarms and incidents
- Gives clear handover to the next guard
Stage 3
Senior or lead
- Guides new guards at the post
- Handles difficult people calmly
- Suggests improvements to post orders
Training path
First weeks
- 1
Post orders and site tour
The supervisor walks the site and explains post orders, entry rules, emergency exits and who to call. The guard explains the post orders back at the post and the supervisor checks.
- 2
Registers and handover
Teach visitor, vehicle and shift registers and the handover note with sample entries. The supervisor reviews entries daily at first.
- 3
Conduct and dress
Teach uniform, courtesy, no sleeping or phone at post, and rules on force and touch. The supervisor observes at random times.
First year
- 1
Access control and searching
Teach checking passes, bags and vehicles within client rules and respect for people. The supervisor role-plays refusals and the guard practises.
- 2
Emergency response
Teach fire, medical and intrusion drills with alarms and calls. The supervisor runs drills and checks timing.
- 3
Dealing with conflict
Teach talking down angry visitors and calling for help. The supervisor reviews real incidents.
Towards senior
- 1
Incident reports
Teach writing a clear report of who, what, when and where. The supervisor corrects reports and uses them in review.
- 2
Coaching new guards
The senior guard gives a new joiner post tips and checks his register. The supervisor reviews the joiner.
- 3
Post improvement
The guard notes blind spots or weak procedures. The supervisor passes valid points to the client.
Performance review
A monthly 1-to-1 with the supervisor at the post, surprise checks during rounds and a half-yearly written review. Keep it short so the post is not left unattended.
What to measure
| Measure | How it is seen |
|---|---|
| Alertness and presence | Surprise checks and rounds |
| Register accuracy | Register review |
| Handling of visitors and vehicles | Observation and client feedback |
| Emergency readiness | Drill performance |
| Conduct | Complaints and observation |
| Attendance and punctuality | Roster and attendance |
Evidence to bring
- Registers
- Incident reports
- Round check sheets
- Drill records
- Attendance
Questions to ask in the review
- What unusual things did you notice at your post?
- Where do post orders feel unclear?
- How do you handle someone who argues?
- What are the risks at night?
- How is your health and rest?
- What equipment do you lack?
- What training would help you?
Pitfalls
- Training only on joining day
- Long hours without rest
- Checking guards only for sleeping
- No feedback to the client on weak posts
Questions about this role
Working hours and overtime rules apply. Confirm with your adviser.
Only as permitted by law and training. Confirm limits with your adviser.
Use unannounced checks, registers and client feedback.