11 general orders for security guards

Last Updated on September 25, 2024 by James R. Cole

The 11 general orders for security guards are crucial in the modern security industry. They provide security personnel with a reference point and clear direction, enabling them to carry out their duties effectively, maintain order, and uphold organizational standards and objectives.

By implementing these orders, security guards can ensure consistency, discipline, and the overall safety and security of their assigned areas.

What are the general orders?

General orders are directives or instructions issued by authorities or government bodies to establish rules, procedures, and responsibilities for a specific context or situation.

These orders serve as official guidelines that individuals are expected to follow to ensure consistency, compliance, and effective execution of tasks or duties.

General orders help to establish a framework for behavior, actions, and decision-making, providing individuals with clear expectations and directions.

General orders are constituted in numerous professions such as the military, police, private security, and organizational settings to maintain consistency, discipline, and compliance with the protocol.

These orders may cover various topics, including security procedures, a code of conduct, emergency response protocol, communication guidelines, and more.

The private security regulatory authority is responsible for issuing general orders for security guards in the security industry. Security professionals are required to adhere to these orders while on duty.

11 general orders for security guards

1. Responsible for the post and allocated area;

As a security guard, you are typically assigned to a specific post with a designated area to cover. Any incidents or occurrences within your assigned area hold you accountable.

Therefore, it is essential to follow the guidelines outlined in the Post Order (PO) to carry out your duties. These guidelines ensure consistency and help you maintain a secure environment.

2. Report violations of orders and regulations;

In the security industry, a security guard often works as part of a team that includes various roles such as security officers, supervisors, managers, and client representatives.

When a security procedure is breached, you must report it promptly to the supervisor or another responsible person within the organization.

In certain situations, if the nature of the incident requires immediate intervention, you may need to contact the local police for assistance.

By promptly reporting security breaches and incidents, you play a vital role in maintaining a secure environment and protecting the interests of your clients and the public.

3. Report all calls for assistance, unusual occurrences, and emergencies;

As a security guard, you should promptly report any incidents that require immediate action to the appropriate authority. Record all the incidents in your notebook or the occurrence book. Timely reporting facilitates swift response and resolution.

4. Sound the alarm in case of fire or disorder;

In the event of a fire or any disorderly situation occurring in your duty place as a security guard, it is essential to take immediate action.

Your first step should be to activate the alarm system to alert others within the area. This alarm can help notify individuals and initiate the emergency response plan.

By promptly initiating the alarm system and adhering to the emergency response plan, security guards can play a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of individuals present in the affected area.

5. Call the authority in case of fire, accident, or serious illness:

As a security guard, it is essential to know the different government bodies responsible for handling specific distress situations.

FIRE: In the event of a fire, it is important to contact the fire and rescue authorities, as they are trained and equipped to handle such emergencies.

INJURIES AND ILLNESS: Medical emergencies should be reported to the appropriate medical services, such as ambulances with health workers, who can provide immediate medical assistance.

VIOLATIONS OR BREACHES: In cases of public disorder or criminal activity, it is crucial to contact the police, as they are responsible for maintaining law and order.

By contacting the proper authority for each specific situation, security guards contribute to the safety and well-being of the individuals.

6. Render all possible aid to enforce the rules and regulations:

As a security guard, your role is to enforce rules and regulations within your assigned area. It is essential to exercise maximum effort in implementing rules and regulations to create a secure environment.

Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) serve as valuable guides for security guards in performing their duties within specific organizations. SOPs help ensure consistency, fairness, and effective enforcement of rules and regulations.

Assisting others in enforcing rules and regulations acts as a building block in establishing a safe and secure environment within your organization.

By actively supporting and upholding these guidelines, you contribute to the overall security culture and protection of individuals.

7. Be high alert during nighttime and dark hours;

Theft, vandalism, and other criminal activities often occur under the cover of darkness due to low visibility and decreased public presence.

To ensure the security of your area, it is crucial to maintain a heightened state of alertness during nighttime hours.

staying alert, regularly patrolling the area, and actively observing your surroundings are essential practices to enhance nighttime security.

8. Prevent unauthorized individuals from entering ;

In most companies security personnel are present at the entry and exit points of the premises, your primary responsibility is to prevent unauthorized individuals or items from entering or leaving the site.

Your duties also include actively challenging any unauthorized person attempting to pass through your post.

Your constant vigilance and proactive approach contribute to the overall security and integrity of the site, making you a crucial part of the security team.

9. Report any security regulation breaches promptly;

Security rules and regulations within a workplace are typically established by the security department or management of the organization.

As a security guard, it is your responsibility to ensure that these rules are adhered to by everyone.

If someone breaches these rules and regulations, you need to report the incident to the appropriate official or department.

10. Report immediately the safety and security hazards;

During your patrol, it is important to thoroughly inspect the surrounding area and the interior of the building.

Suppose you come across any signs of tampering with locks, doors, or windows, as well as safety hazards such as potential slips, trips, falls, or any other safety measures not being met. In that case, it is necessary to promptly report these findings to your supervisor or the responsible person in charge.

Your vigilance and reporting play a crucial role in maintaining a safe and secure environment.

11. Maintain a state of constant vigilance and attentiveness;

Remaining stationary in a post may limit your ability to observe a large area of responsibility.

Therefore, it is important to conduct regular patrols and move around the guard post to gather information about activities happening around your assigned area.

This proactive approach helps you stay vigilant and alert at all times while on duty. By actively monitoring your surroundings, you can effectively respond to any incidents that may occur.

The 11 general orders for security guards are crucial guidelines that enable them to carry out their duties effectively.

By following these orders, security guards are well-prepared to handle various incidents and security breaches that may occur during their duty.

These orders provide clear instructions on how to respond and act in different situations, eliminating the need for guards to think about what to do on the spot.

Adhering to the 11 general orders ensures that security guards have already been guided on the appropriate actions to take in specific security breaches, allowing for a prompt and effective response.