Unauthorised access to premises or locations is always going to be a challenge in communities. Preventing disorder in a society is a duty that everyone should take up. But the reality is that not everyone can and has the time to respond to security breaches.
New technologies and surveillance cameras have made it almost impossible for anybody to get away with a crime. But these remote monitoring sites do not allow for quick response to incidents and security breaches.
Physical presence in manned security is essential in any gathering of people or premises. It is particularly important in high-profile premises and areas where anti-social behaviour is prevalent. The result of manned guarding activities is the peace of mind for clients.
In this blog, we will look at manned guarding and its importance, including how security guarding services can provide comprehensive protection through perimeter manned guarding, building access control, and more.
What Exactly Is Manned Guarding?
Manned security guarding is a security measure that ensures the protection of premises from unauthorised access, and so prevent disorder, theft, and injury to individuals and their properties. It involves an on-site guard who is present at a location and can respond quickly to security breaches and accidents. Manned guards are partly or wholly responsible for determining and accessing the suitability of admission into a location. Hence, manned guarding involves the following activities;
- Guarding premises against disorder and damage
- Guarding properties against being stolen or obtained without permission
- Guarding individuals against injuries and assault
Properties need to be well protected, and this layer of security is essential and useful to prevent trespassing and thefts. Even as technology prevails in the world, manned guarding is not going to lose its place or significance anytime soon.
Advantages Of Manned Guarding
1. Manned Guarding prevents possible threats by accessing the situation
It is not enough to be aware of the occurrence of a security breach. It is more useful if a service or act can detect the breach before it occurs. Manned guards work in conjunction with alarm systems to detect and respond to threats. This is exactly what manned guarding seeks to achieve. Unlike technological surveillance methods, possible threats can be detected by accessing the situation at hand. The manned guard then responds to the situation at hand.
2. Security personnel offer a quick Response to incidents
Manned guarding permits professional security personnel to take swift actions and decisions. Security guards don’t need to confirm if the surveillance or cameras are depicting what seems to be true, unlike in technological security measures. A manned guard can easily communicate with the authorities when he sees a possible threat with mobile devices.
3. Several manned security guards can be on a premise
There is no restriction to the number of manned security guards that can man a premise. This is not the case with cameras and surveillance technologies that may be difficult to place in a few areas. These guards can even prevent threats by disguising and working undercover.
4. Insurance companies give discounts to locations with a security guard
Professional security guards provide such a reliable practice that insurance companies give a discount to sites that have this level of protection. This is because they are aware that manned guarding reduces arson, vandalism and other antisocial activities that people engage in. For a high-profile location, the discount that is given to by the insurance company may even surpass the investment into manned guarding employed at the site.
Common manned guarding services
1. Retail security
Manned guards are often employed in retail environments to deter shoplifting, manage crowd control during peak hours or sales events, and provide a secure shopping experience for customers. They can also assist in handling emergencies and coordinating with law enforcement if necessary.
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2. Construction site security
Construction sites are vulnerable to theft and vandalism, especially after working hours. Manned security guards are utilised to protect equipment, materials, and ensure that only authorised personnel access the site. They can also maintain logs of deliveries and visitor access.
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3. Corporate office security
In corporate offices, manned security guards are essential for controlling access to the building, ensuring only authorised personnel enter, and providing a sense of safety to employees and visitors. They often perform regular patrols and monitor surveillance systems to identify any suspicious activities.
4. Event security
Large events such as concerts, sports events, and conferences require extensive security measures. Manned guards help in managing entry points, checking tickets, and conducting bag searches. They are also responsible for handling unruly behaviour and ensuring the safety of all attendees.
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5. Residential security
In residential complexes, manned guards provide a visible security presence that deters crime and ensures the safety of residents. They may be responsible for overseeing entry gates, conducting regular patrols, and addressing any security concerns raised by residents.
6. Industrial and warehouse security
Industrial facilities and warehouses often contain valuable equipment and inventory. Manned guarding services help in protecting these assets from theft and damage. Security guards manage the entry and exit of personnel and vehicles, and perform regular checks to prevent unauthorised access.
7. Hospital security
Hospitals and healthcare facilities rely on manned security guards to safeguard patients, staff, and visitors. They play a crucial role in controlling access to sensitive areas, managing potentially volatile situations, and ensuring the overall security of the premises.
Situations where manned guarding activities do not apply
Manned guarding activities cannot be performed in every situation and to every individual. Firstly, a manned security guard can not assist individuals that maintain law and order in a position or premises.
For example, a school teacher accompanying children may not employ manned guarding security. Manned guarding activities do not also apply to individuals who respond to an unexpected occurrence or situation. For example, a doctor who responds to an emergency involving a patient would not be subjected to manned guarding activities.
Furthermore, in the UK, manned guarding activities do not apply to employees of an organisation who are carrying out normal activities. Employees of another team who are visiting and have certified permission are also exempted from manned guarding activities.
These exemptions and many others are detailed in Section 4(6) to 4(12) of the Private Security Industry Act. However, this is not to say that the individuals involved in all these situations are not watched or monitored.
Conclusion
Manned guarding services play a crucial role in providing security to various industries and individuals. The physical presence of a trained security guard can prevent crimes, respond to incidents, and provide peace of mind to those under their protection.
While it may not be applicable in all situations, manned guarding remains a highly effective and reliable security measure that continues to be utilised worldwide. So, whether you require retail security or hospital security, consider hiring a manned guard for added protection and safety. Remember – prevention is always better than cure!
Professional manned security services from MEC Security
MEC Security is an approved manned guarding company that provides a physical on-site presence in the UK. Our security officers are highly experienced and can meet the needs of any security requirements.
We only select the most proficient and most highly trained security guards to man premises and property and protect individuals. All our security guards have years of experience in the security service and are vetted vigorously by the Security Industry Authority (SIA), and we have no tolerance for mediocrity.
To find out more about our manned guarding services and to
receive a free quote, reach out to our team today.