Crime is an unfortunate reality for businesses across the UK, and it’s showing no signs of disappearing. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), crime rates are still a major concern for businesses, particularly when it comes to theft, vandalism, and even violent incidents. With the police working overtime, more companies are turning to private security firms to protect their premises, staff and customers. So independent security providers are stepping up to fill the gaps and offering businesses a much-needed layer of defence.
It’s not just about locking the doors at the end of the day, companies are recognising that investing in security is key to protecting their assets. But does having security guards really make a difference in reducing crime, or is it just about peace of mind?
Understanding the Roles of Security Guards
Security guards aren’t just there to stand around and look intimidating. Their role is multifaceted and tailored to the specific needs of each business. Whether stationed at the entrance to a retail store or patrolling a large industrial site, they act as both a preventative and reactive measure against potential threats.
Good security guards do more than just react to problems, they work proactively to prevent incidents from happening in the first place. Their presence alone can make potential criminals think twice before targeting your business.
Static Security Guards
Static security guards are the ones you’ll typically see standing at entrances, lobbies, or reception areas. Their main job is to monitor access points, ensuring only authorised people are allowed in. They’re effectively the gatekeepers, stopping any unauthorised entry and keeping a close eye on what’s happening around them.
But they do a lot more than just stand guard. Static security officers will often:
- Monitor CCTV feeds and alarms
- Check IDs and ensure credentials are valid
- Conduct regular patrols around key areas
- Assist visitors and staff with queries or issues
- Report any suspicious activity or security breaches immediately
So in many ways, static security guards are the frontline of protection for businesses. Their constant presence is a strong deterrent to potential criminals looking for easy targets. By simply being there, they reduce the likelihood of theft, vandalism, or unauthorised entry.
Mobile Security Patrols
If your business spans a large area (think industrial estates, retail parks, or warehouses), mobile security patrols may be more suitable. These officers are constantly on the move, covering different areas of the premises and checking for any signs of trouble.
Mobile patrols offer flexibility that static guards can’t, so by regularly patrolling different parts of the site, these officers provide a visible and unpredictable deterrent to criminals. Patrols are usually done:
- On foot for areas that require close inspection, such as doors, windows, and entry points
- In vehicles to cover larger distances quickly
- Randomly, to keep potential intruders guessing
By keeping mobile, these officers are able to respond quickly to alarms or suspicious activity, giving you peace of mind that nothing goes unnoticed.
Using Security Guards as a Deterrent
One of the most significant benefits of having security guards on-site is the deterrent effect. The presence of a security officer immediately complicates their plans. From preventing theft in a retail environment to deterring vandals at a construction site, guards send a clear message: this place is being watched, and getting away with anything isn’t going to be easy.
Here’s how security guards effectively deter crime:
- Visible Presence: The sight of a uniformed guard is often enough to make potential criminals think twice.
- Real-Time Monitoring: Security guards can spot unusual behaviour and respond quickly, preventing an issue from escalating.
- Maintaining Order: In busy areas, security guards help maintain a sense of order, discouraging theft and anti-social behaviour.
- Monitoring CCTV and Alarms: Guards are often responsible for monitoring live CCTV feeds and responding to alarms or suspicious activity.
- Patrolling Premises: Regular foot and vehicle patrols keep all parts of the property secure and deter any attempts to break in or vandalise.
For businesses that operate in areas prone to crime, these deterrent effects are invaluable. A would-be criminal is far less likely to attempt anything when they know a guard is keeping an eye on them.
Duty of Care
Beyond reducing crime, security guards also play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of employees, customers, and visitors. Every business has a duty of care to protect the people on its premises, and by hiring security, companies are fulfilling that duty in a practical, visible way.
At Mono Security, our guards are licensed by the Security Industry Authority (SIA). This ensures that security officers are well-versed in conflict resolution, health & safety and emergency response protocols. When an emergency does occur, whether it’s a fire alarm or a medical situation, you want someone who knows exactly what to do.
Key aspects of duty of care include:
- Providing a safe working environment for employees
- Protecting customers and visitors from harm
- Responding quickly to emergencies, including fire, accidents, or security threats
- Handling difficult situations calmly and professionally
- Assisting in evacuations and ensuring everyone’s safety
Having trained security guards on-site shows your commitment to protecting everyone on the premises. It’s not just about stopping crime—it’s about creating a safe, secure environment for your staff and customers.
Are Security Guards Worth It?
Security guards are an essential part of any business’s strategy to protect its assets, staff, and customers. Whether it’s static guards standing watch at the front door or mobile patrols covering vast areas, their presence helps reduce crime and deter criminals.
