What’s an unarmed guard’s job?

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Unarmed guards provide access control and basic security services without carrying weapons. They may be stationed at a guard post or patrol on foot or in a vehicle. They can be used in museums, as personal security, or as security monitors. Training and licensing are required in most regions.

An unarmed guard provides security services in low-risk locations where the primary concern is controlling access rather than providing protection. In the event of a security threat or problem, unarmed guards can ask for support from the police or armed guards to resolve the problem. In most regions, people are required to take a short course and apply for a license to work as unarmed guards. Employers can pay for unarmed guard training, or individuals can pursue training independently and apply for jobs after certification.

Unarmed guards do not carry weapons, although they are trained in basic restraint techniques and the use of force should they need to be able to temporarily restrain someone. They may be stationed at a guard post or may patrol on foot or in a vehicle, depending on the facility. Depending on the installation, they can be the main source of security or they can work in conjunction with armed guards and automated security systems.

A classic use for an unarmed guard is as a doorman. When people try to enter a facility, the guard stops them, checks identification and determines why they want to enter. The unarmed guard may also be authorized to conduct searches of persons and vehicles before allowing passage. Unarmed guards can also act as security patrols, looking for anything unusual or abnormal that might indicate a problem.

Museums use unarmed guards to protect works of art, stationing guards near pieces of particular interest. The guard instructs people to stay away from the piece and acts as a deterrent to people who consider it theft or vandalism. Typically, these guards can activate security systems if needed, as well as press panic buttons to summon armed guards in the event that a security situation escalates. Including unarmed guards in a museum and gallery security plan is less intimidating for patrons and less burdensome for the museum.

An unarmed guard may also work with accompanying individuals or valuables during travel and other activities. There may be situations where the presence of a guard is necessary, but the risks are low and there is no need to post an armed guard. Unarmed guards can provide personal security as part of a larger security detail. They might be parked on the outer perimeter, with armed guards inside, in case anyone passes by. Unarmed guards are also commonly used as security monitors stationed at facilities where cameras and other remote monitoring systems are used, calling for help if a break-in or similar security threat is identified.




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