Personal Attacks on Security Guards – How to Stop and Minimise Risks While on Duty

Security guards play a vital role in maintaining safety and order, often putting themselves in challenging situations to protect others. Unfortunately, this responsibility can sometimes make guards the target of personal attacks—whether verbal, physical, or psychological. These incidents not only jeopardize the well-being of guards but also the integrity of the premises they protect.

Here are strategies to minimise risks and enhance safety while on duty:

1. Maintain a Safe Distance When Interacting

• Why Distance Matters: Keeping a safe distance during conversations minimizes the risk of sudden attacks and gives you time to react if needed.
• Ideal Distance: Stand at least two arm’s lengths away from the person of interest, maintaining a clear path for retreat if necessary.
• Defensive Stance: Position your body at an angle (bladed stance), with one foot slightly behind the other. This stance:
  • Makes you a smaller target.
  • Allows for quicker movement if you need to step back or defend yourself.
  • Appears neutral but maintains readiness.
• Hand Positioning: Keep your hands visible but ready, such as at waist height. Avoid crossing your arms or placing your hands in your pockets, as this reduces your ability to respond quickly.
• Use Barriers When Possible: Position objects, such as a desk, counter, or other obstacles, between you and the individual to add a layer of security.

2. Situational Awareness

• Always stay alert and mindful of your surroundings. This includes monitoring not just obvious threats but also subtle changes in behavior or environment.
• Use tools such as CCTV, mirrors, and strategic positioning to extend your awareness.
• Trust your instincts; if something feels off, it likely is.

3. Conflict De-escalation Techniques

• Learn and practice verbal de-escalation strategies to defuse tense situations before they escalate into physical confrontations.
• Maintain a calm and composed demeanor, even when provoked, to avoid escalating hostility.
• Keep your tone neutral and avoid aggressive body language.

4. Teamwork and Communication

• Always communicate with your team. Share updates about suspicious activity, threats, or escalating incidents.
• Use radios or communication systems effectively to call for backup or report issues promptly.
• Work in pairs or groups where possible, especially in high-risk environments.

5. Training and Preparedness

• Undertake regular training in self-defense, situational awareness, and conflict management.
• Familiarize yourself with company protocols for handling threats, evacuations, or emergencies.
• Know the layout of your premises, including exits, blind spots, and safe zones.

6. Wear Appropriate Gear

• Always have your protective equipment ready, such as stab vests, body cameras, or reinforced gloves.
• Consider non-lethal tools like pepper spray or alarms where permitted.

7. Engage the Community

• Build rapport with the people you interact with regularly. A friendly relationship can often preempt hostility.
• Encourage the public to report suspicious behavior and assure them that their concerns will be addressed.

8. Know When to Retreat

• Understand that your safety is paramount. If a situation becomes too dangerous, retreat and call for law enforcement or additional backup.
• Avoid putting yourself at unnecessary risk to protect property alone.

9. Use Technology

• Leverage security systems to monitor high-risk areas remotely.
• Utilize panic buttons or apps to signal distress and request immediate assistance.

10. Report and Learn from Incidents

• Document and report all incidents, no matter how minor they may seem. Accurate reports help identify patterns and inform better strategies.
• Participate in post-incident reviews to learn what could have been done differently to improve safety.

11. Self-Care and Mental Resilience

• Personal attacks can take a toll on mental health. Make time to debrief after stressful incidents and seek professional support if needed.
• Engage in regular physical and mental wellness practices to stay fit and resilient.

Conclusion:

While security work comes with inherent risks, preparation, awareness, and proper protocols can significantly reduce the likelihood of personal attacks. By equipping yourself with the right tools, knowledge, and support systems, you can carry out your duties with confidence and ensure the safety of yourself and those around you.

Stay vigilant, stay prepared, and remember—your safety is just as important as the safety of those you protect.

SAFER

• S – Situational Awareness: Stay alert, monitor surroundings, and trust your instincts.
• A – Approach Safely: Maintain a safe distance and use a defensive stance when interacting with individuals.
• F – Facilitate De-escalation: Use conflict resolution techniques to diffuse tense situations.
• E – Equip and Train: Be prepared with appropriate gear, training, and protocols.
• R – Report and Retreat: Document incidents, know when to call for backup, and prioritize personal safety.