When starting a career as a security guard, it’s important to understand the variety of environments in which security officers work. Far from the common misconception that security guards simply sit around, the reality is that security professionals are integral to many different industries, each with its own set of responsibilities and challenges.

So, where do security guards work? In this discussion, we’ll explore the various locations and industries where security officers are deployed, as well as the broader sector to which the security profession belongs.

What Industry Do Security Guards Fall Under?

Many people are unsure about the specific sector that security guards belong to, especially since they work across a wide range of industries. However, security guards are classified under the law enforcement and security industry, which is both prominent and expanding. In fact, according to Statista, the security industry in the UK employed around 262,800 people in the second quarter of 2023, underscoring the sector’s significant presence in the workforce.

Where Do Security Guards Work?

Security guards are employed in a variety of environments, including construction sites, retail stores, and other businesses that require protection for staff, customers, goods, or property. Their role is essential to the smooth functioning of many organisations, ensuring the safety and security of the workplace. Despite their vital contributions, the security profession is often misunderstood. To clarify, we’ve highlighted some of the most common sectors where security guards are typically found.

Construction Security

Construction site security is more critical than it may seem, as these sites are often vulnerable to a variety of security threats, including vandalism, loitering, and theft. There have even been instances where trespassers or malicious individuals intentionally sabotage construction projects, causing further risks.

The consequences of security breaches in construction zones can be severe. Missing or damaged materials can lead to costly delays, and in the worst cases, result in injuries or fatalities. As a result, security guards are responsible for monitoring the site 24/7, overseeing video surveillance, and ensuring the safety of equipment and assets.

In addition to securing the site and machinery, security guards must also protect temporary structures, such as shacks, fences, and gates, ensuring that these remain secure throughout the project’s duration.

Warehouse Security

Warehouse security is another important area where security officers are needed. Warehouses are often targeted by thieves because they store valuable items, such as backup inventory, essential equipment, and customer orders. These goods can be worth a substantial amount of money, making warehouses prime targets for burglars seeking a large payday.

In these environments, security guards are responsible for protecting assets and ensuring that only authorised personnel are allowed on-site. Guards are typically required to conduct rounds at the end of each day, checking security measures and confirming that everything is in its proper place.

During working hours, security officers may also be tasked with verifying employee IDs and ensuring that workers are wearing the proper attire for the job.

Mobile Patrol Security

A relatively recent development in the security industry, mobile patrols are designed to support areas or clients that don’t require a full-time, on-site security guard at fixed hours. This service is often used for properties like parking lots, strip malls, and office buildings, which typically don’t need continuous monitoring.

Officers in mobile patrols are trained to perform a variety of tasks, such as responding to triggered alarms, securing or unlocking the premises when necessary, and conducting routine checks. They generally carry out their rounds after business hours, once the property has been vacated. However, the timing of their patrols can be adjusted to meet the specific needs of the client.

Event Security

Event security is one of the most well-known sectors within the security industry, focusing on ensuring the safety of attendees and participants at events like concerts, conferences, festivals, trade shows, and more. These events can sometimes become chaotic, especially when alcohol or other substances are involved.

Depending on the venue and the client’s needs, security officers may either monitor the event remotely using surveillance cameras or patrol the grounds in person.

Their primary responsibility is to maintain order throughout the event, no matter what unfolds. This includes overseeing entrances and exits, managing foot traffic, and assisting attendees who may be lost or need help.

Officers are also tasked with handling disturbances, such as fights or unauthorised individuals attempting to access restricted areas, ensuring a safe and smooth experience for all involved.

Retail Security

Retail security is another critical area where security guards play an important role, and it highlights how they utilise their customer service skills. Shopping malls, brick-and-mortar stores, and other physical establishments are prime targets for theft, due to heavy foot traffic and the abundance of easily accessible items.

These venues can also become high-risk areas in emergencies, particularly because of the large number of people typically present. In retail settings, security guards are responsible for monitoring the premises to ensure the safety of employees and customers, while also deterring or apprehending shoplifters.

Beyond theft prevention, security guards are trained to manage crisis situations, ensuring emergency procedures are followed and assisting with evacuations when necessary. Additionally, guards often contribute to customer service by interacting with shoppers, addressing concerns, and helping to maintain a positive shopping environment.

Where Do Private Security Guards Work?

Private security guards, like their public counterparts, are deployed across a wide range of sectors. In the industrial sector, they protect construction sites, factories, and warehouses, ensuring the safety of both personnel and valuable assets. Private security officers also work in commercial settings, including business parks, banks, hospitals, retail stores, schools, and event venues. In these environments, they play a vital role in safeguarding property, preventing crime, and maintaining order, contributing to a secure atmosphere for employees, customers, and the general public.

Where Do Armed Security Guards Work?

In the UK, armed security guards are uncommon due to strict firearms regulations that prohibit most security personnel from carrying weapons. Armed security roles are generally limited to specific settings, such as prisons, where officers are authorised to carry weapons. In these cases, prison guards are specially trained to handle the added responsibilities of working high-risk environments where security threats are more likely.

Where Are Security Guards Needed the Most?

Security guards are essential for protecting many types of businesses, but some locations have a greater need for their services than others. To highlight where security officers are most crucial, we’ve outlined four common places that rely heavily on their presence.

Banks

Banks are trusted by many people to keep their money and valuables safe, making them prime targets for security threats such as theft and fraud. To address these risks, security guards are stationed at banks to prevent criminal activity and ensure the safety of both customers and employees. Their presence is essential in maintaining a secure environment and preserving the trust people place in these financial institutions.

Construction Sites

As noted earlier, construction security is a key area where security guards are commonly deployed. Construction sites are filled with potential risks, such as vandalism, unsafe working conditions, and criminal activity. Security guards are crucial for protecting workers from these hazards and maintaining a secure environment. Their physical presence on-site helps deter crime and ensures the safety of both personnel and property throughout the project.

Hospitals

Hospitals are another critical location where security guards are needed. These facilities are often busy and can present a variety of dangerous situations, including violent incidents, theft, or medical emergencies. Security guards play a crucial role in safeguarding the hospital from these threats, providing an added layer of protection for the property. Their presence helps create a safer environment for staff, patients, and visitors by managing risks and ensuring order. Trained to handle a range of situations, security officers contribute to maintaining peace and safety throughout the hospital.

Retail Shops

As noted earlier, retail security is a crucial area where guards are highly needed. Retail stores are often targeted by thieves, with customer theft posing a significant risk. According to the British Retail Consortium (BRC), more than eight million incidents of theft were reported between 2021 and 2022. Security guards play a vital role in addressed this issue by serving as a visible deterrent to potential thieves. Their presence provides retail establishments with a strong security presence, helping to prevent theft and ensuring a safer environment for both customers and employees.

So, Where Do Security Guards Work?

While we’ve covered some of the main sectors where security guards are employed, the security industry is vast, and guards work in many other areas as well. For example, some officers monitor vacant properties to prevent unauthorised use by vagrants or criminal activity.

Security guards are also found in business parks and factories, where they protect company assets and ensure the safety of employees. The specific roles guards can take on depend on their qualifications, such as the SIA licence, which determines the areas they are authorised to work in.

Although security guards are often overlooked, their contributions are crucial to the smooth operation and safety of businesses worldwide. If you’re interested in learning more about security guards, visit our news and insights page for articles like What is a Static Security Guard? and What is Mobile Patrol Security?