Security from £15.95+VAT an hour*
Security from £14.95+VAT an hour*
11 April 2023
Security guards play a crucial role in safeguarding people, properties, and assets in the United Kingdom. They are responsible for maintaining order, preventing theft or vandalism, and responding to emergencies. However, working as a security guard can come with its own set of challenges, which can impact the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of security professionals. In this blog, we will explore some of the challenges that security guards may face in the UK, including long hours, physically demanding work, potential risks and dangers, dealing with difficult situations and people, and maintaining professionalism and integrity in the face of challenges.
Many security guard roles require working long hours and irregular shifts, including evenings, nights, weekends, and holidays. This can result in disrupted sleep patterns, fatigue, and potential impacts on physical and mental health. Additionally, the extended hours of standing or patrolling can lead to physical discomfort, such as leg, back, or joint pain.
Security guards often have to perform physically demanding tasks, such as patrolling, conducting searches, restraining individuals, and responding to physical altercations or emergencies. This can result in injuries or strains, and it may also require security guards to maintain a high level of physical fitness to effectively carry out their duties.
Security guards may face potential risks and dangers in their line of work. They may encounter volatile situations, confront aggressive or hostile individuals, or respond to emergencies, such as fires or medical incidents. Security guards may also be exposed to hazardous environments or substances, such as toxic chemicals or dangerous equipment, which can pose risks to their health and safety.
Security guards are often required to handle difficult situations and deal with challenging people. This can include managing conflicts, resolving disputes, dealing with uncooperative or hostile individuals, and enforcing rules or regulations. These interactions can be stressful and emotionally taxing, requiring security guards to have good communication and conflict resolution skills, as well as the ability to remain calm and composed under pressure.
Security guards are expected to maintain a high level of professionalism and integrity in their conduct and behaviour. They must adhere to codes of ethics, follow company policies and procedures, and comply with relevant laws and regulations. However, in challenging situations, security guards may face ethical dilemmas or be tempted to engage in unethical or unprofessional behaviour, such as abuse of authority, theft, or dishonesty. Maintaining professionalism and integrity can be challenging, especially when faced with difficult situations or ethical conflicts.
Despite the critical role they play in maintaining safety and security, security guards often face a lack of recognition and support. They may receive minimal training, have limited opportunities for advancement or career development, and face low pay or poor working conditions. This can lead to dissatisfaction, demotivation, and burnout among security guards, which can further impact their performance and well-being.
In conclusion, working as a security guard in the UK comes with its own set of challenges. From long hours and physically demanding work to potential risks and dangers, dealing with difficult situations and people, and maintaining professionalism and integrity, security guards face various obstacles in their day-to-day work. It is important for security guards to be aware of these challenges and take steps to mitigate them, such as prioritizing self-care, seeking support from colleagues or supervisors, and adhering to professional standards and regulations. Employers and the security industry as a whole should also recognize and value the contributions of security guards and provide adequate training.