As a security guard in Melbourne, you play a critical role in the safety of individuals and properties. While your primary duty is to prevent crime and enforce laws, you also have legal responsibilities that you must be aware of to perform your job efficiently. In this article, we will discuss the various legal duties of a security guard and the implications of failing to meet them.
Role of a Security Guard in Melbourne
Protecting People and Property
When people hire a security guard in Melbourne, they give them the primary responsibility to protect people and property from harm. You must always be vigilant and observant to detect suspicious activity and take appropriate action to prevent crimes or accidents. Your presence alone can deter potential criminals, making it less likely for them to attempt to carry out their illegal activities.
Maintaining Order
Another essential role of security services is maintaining order in the area they are responsible for. You must ensure that people follow the rules and regulations set by the establishment or property owner. If any violations occur, you must address them immediately and take appropriate action to prevent further issues.
Enforcing Laws
As a security guard in Melbourne, you are also responsible for enforcing laws within your area. It may involve detaining individuals who have committed crimes or reporting incidents to law enforcement officials. Understanding the laws and regulations that apply to your job and acting within the law’s boundaries is essential.
Importance of Being Proactive
To effectively fulfil your role as a security guard in Melbourne, it is essential to be proactive in detecting and preventing potential problems. It would help if you were constantly scanning your surroundings for any signs of danger or suspicious activity. Being proactive can prevent incidents far better than reacting after an incident.
Legal Responsibilities of a Security Guard
Duty of Care
As a security guard in Melbourne, you have a duty of care towards the people and property you are responsible for. It means you must take reasonable steps to ensure the area is safe and free from harm. If you fail to fulfil your duty of care, you may be liable for negligence.
Use of Force
The use of force is a necessary part of a security guard’s job, but it must be used judiciously and within the bounds of the law. A security guard can use various types of force, such as physical force, chemical agents, and firearms. However, the use of force must always be proportional to the situation and only used when necessary to protect people and property.
Security guards must also follow the rules and regulations regarding the use of force, such as those outlined in their employer’s use of force policy or state laws. Failure to follow these rules can lead to legal consequences, including criminal charges or civil lawsuits.
Arrest Powers
Security guards in Melbourne may be able to make arrests in certain situations, such as when a criminal commits a crime in their presence. However, the power to make an arrest comes with responsibilities and limitations.
Security guards in Melbourne train in the proper arrest procedures and act within the law’s boundaries. If a security guard makes an unlawful arrest, they may be held liable for false imprisonment or other charges.
Search and Seizure
Security guards may also have the power to conduct searches and seizures under certain circumstances, such as when there is a reasonable suspicion that a person is carrying a weapon or contraband. However, the power to search and seize comes with rules and limitations.
Security guards must have adequate training in the proper procedures for conducting searches and seizures and act within the law’s boundaries. Failure to follow these rules can lead to legal consequences, including criminal charges or civil lawsuits.
Liability of a Security Guard
Civil Liability
Security guards can be liable for civil damages if they fail to fulfil their legal responsibilities and someone faces injuries due to the same. For example, suppose a security guard fails to secure a building properly, and a person faces injury due to a break-in. In that case, the guard and their security services may be liable for damages.
Criminal Liability
Security guards can also face criminal charges if they violate the law or engage in illegal activities while on the job. For example, if a security guard in Melbourne uses excessive force or makes an unlawful arrest, they may be charged with assault or false imprisonment.
Training and Certification Requirements
Overview of Training Requirements
To become a security guard in Melbourne, individuals must complete some training and meet specific requirements, such as passing a background check and obtaining a license. The training requirements may vary by state or employer but typically include such issues as legal responsibilities, use of force, and emergency procedures.
Importance of Certification
Certification is vital to hire security guards in Melbourne as it demonstrates that they have met the necessary training and education requirements to perform their job. It can also provide additional benefits, such as increased job opportunities and higher pay.
Types of Training
Security guards in Melbourne may undergo various types of training, including basic training and continuing education. Basic training typically covers the fundamental skills and knowledge necessary to perform the job, while continuing education focuses on updating and enhancing skills.
Importance of Staying Up to Date
Security guards need to stay current on the latest laws and regulations regarding their job and refresh their skills and knowledge through continuing education regularly. It can help prevent legal issues and ensure that security guards are performing their job to the best of their abilities.
Concluding Words
Security guards have legal responsibilities that they must be aware of and fulfil to perform their job efficiently. Failure to meet these responsibilities can lead to legal consequences, including civil and criminal liability. By understanding and following their legal obligations, security guards in Melbourne, ensure the safety of people and property and protect themselves from legal issues.
Contact Aligned Security Force so we have the best understanding of our liabilities and responsibilities towards our clients, and we make sure to commit to the best services.