How The Security Guard Job Has Changed With The Coronavirus Pandemic
The outbreak of the coronavirus has brought about massive changes in the way businesses go about their operations, with many pushed to the brink of closure due to lockdowns and other regulations meant to flatten the curve. Unemployment rates are through the roof while the future remains hazy as the virus continues to hurtle into overdrive. Tomorrow remains uncertain, but it is clear that businesses need to up their game if they are to survive the economic tornado that is the coronavirus.
Amid the chaos, though, new normalcy is being established as businesses strive to stay above the economic tides. Places are cautiously returning to life, although with a raft of safety and health protocols in place, as an effort to follow government guidelines and also to keep clients safe. Security professionals are proving pivotal in that campaign, offering essential services to implement the adherence to these strict measures, most importantly, social distancing and the use of PPEs.
The role of the security guard has changed immensely in the wake of COVID-19, and it is becoming vital for everyone in the security field to understand what their new job descriptions entail in this pandemic era. Knowing this is vital to keeping yourself, and those you’re looking out for, safe.
COVID-19 and the increasing importance of security guards
Security concerns vary depending on what kind of business you’re talking about. The risk factors involved as far as retail establishments go may not be similar to the concerns faced by restaurants or corporate business parks. Across the board, though, fulfilling the workplace routine while juggling social distancing protocols and other safety measures has proved a tough balancing act for many businesses. Irate customers unwilling to fall in line certainly haven’t helped the situation, forcing some establishments to keep their doors shut. Even then, business owners have to think about property threats such as vandals, thieves, and looters.
Professionally trained security guards step in to alleviate these problems, offering essential services that have become even more important as things are. Armed with special knowledge to deter crime and the spread of the coronavirus, these guards ensure COVID-safety rules are followed by everyone, while still maintaining courteous customer service.
The roles of security guards in the coronavirus pandemic
COVID-19 is a highly infectious disease, and to contain its spread, the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention) has released detailed guidelines encompassing basic hygiene, among other simple protection measures. Present age security guards need to be aware of these safety protocols to best execute their primary duties as safety enforcers. Some of those CDC measures include:
1) The consistent use of PPEs
Charity starts at home. Before a security guard can enforce the use of personal protection equipment such as masks and whatnot, he or she needs to lead by example through the consistent use of PPEs. If your client doesn’t have provisions for PPEs, the security guard should take it upon him or herself to get the necessary equipment. To best protect others, you need to protect yourself first.
2) COVID-19 symptoms recognition
An elevated body temperature, pain in the joints, respiratory difficulties, sore throats, and coughs are some tell-tales of the coronavirus. A COVID-19 security guard should be abreast of all the symptoms around the disease so that he/she can identify suspect individuals quickly for fast isolation, and thereby curb the spread. Luckily, you can easily get all the information from many trustworthy online sources and news outlets as well.
3) Understanding exposure protocols
COVID-19 has necessitated special measures in terms of disease containment, but like any other security or safety threat, it is paramount for guards to know how to handle reporting exposure as far as the appropriate channels of authority are concerned. Noting down the details of an exposure incident can help authorities trace down potentially infected contacts. Additionally, it enables business owners to be clear about potential exposure to employees and clients.
A modern-day security guard must not only uphold traditional security roles like patrols, preventing vandals, keeping out trespassers, customer direction, etc. but also be armed with the requisite expertise to be a COVID-safety enforcer.
It is vital for you, as a guard, to stay ahead of the COVID-19 news. Staying informed about new developments allows you to execute your job better with a good understanding of the virus.
