What are the guidelines for using force as a security guard?

Using only reasonable and necessary force in response to a threat is grounded in both legal and ethical standards for security personnel. The principle of proportionality is key here; security guards are trained to assess the level of threat and respond with an appropriate amount of force that is reserved for neutralizing that threat without causing unnecessary harm.

When a security guard encounters a situation that requires intervention, they must evaluate the circumstances and determine the minimal level of force required to ensure their own safety, the safety of others, and to effectively manage the incident. Excessive force could lead to legal repercussions, liability issues, and may escalate the situation rather than resolve it. Moreover, using force only when physically attacked does not provide the necessary framework for addressing threats that do not involve an immediate physical attack but may still pose a risk, such as verbal threats or other aggressive behaviors. Lastly, considering force as a first option undermines the emphasis on de-escalation and conflict resolution techniques that are essential in maintaining a safe environment.