This month, we’ve been discussing common mistakes in the security industry—many of which can be easily avoided with a little planning and attention. One critical mistake we’re focusing on this week involves your staff: **Don’t use staff as a substitute for security guards**.
### Prioritize Staff Safety
As an employer, it’s your legal responsibility to ensure the safety of your employees. This involves providing proper training, necessary safety equipment, a secure working environment, and clear safety protocols. Employees need to know what to do, where to go, and who’s in charge during an emergency or security breach. Their well-being should never be secondary to protecting customers or assets.
### Understand the Difference Between Staff and Security
When onboarding new employees, it’s essential to clarify their job roles and ensure they are fully trained. A common error businesses make is expecting staff members to handle security issues. However, unless someone has been specifically trained and hired as a security guard, they should not be tasked with security duties.
Not every business needs full-time security guards, but if your business faces issues such as theft, violence, or other security breaches, it’s likely time to bring in professional security. Employees should not be expected to confront shoplifters or handle violent situations, as they have the right to refuse unsafe work.
### Set a Professional Standard
Asking staff to perform the duties of trained security guards not only puts them at risk but also lowers your company’s professional standards. Untrained employees won’t be able to manage security threats as effectively as a professional guard, which increases the risk of theft or other incidents. Shoplifters will quickly notice the absence of security measures, making your business an easy target.
To ensure the safety of your staff, customers, and assets, it’s vital to conduct a security audit, identify potential risks, and develop a comprehensive security plan. Need help? Contact us, and we’ll guide you through the process.
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