The challenges presented by the coronavirus pandemic has led to many changes in our lives but not least is the sight of security operatives at the door of retailer on the high street.
We’re used to seeing security personnel in and around businesses, but until now they’ve taken a less visible position, on the edge of our eye line, discreetly keeping us and our businesses safe. But the last four months we’ve seen them become a more visible part of our lives. No longer are they restricted to patrolling, key-holding, incident assistance, the prevention of theft and the discreet protection of staff. Changes to the way we interact, mean that security is now being called upon to assist the government in the protection of the public from COVID-19.
The sight of security personnel has become more frequent as they control the number of shoppers entering retail establishments to allow for physical distance between shoppers, assisting with crowd management as well as making sure the NHS, the elderly, and key workers get access to the supplies they need, screening people and keeping track of numbers.
There’s also plenty of changes going on out of public view too. With many commercial, retail, or office premises presently closed as a result of furloughed or self-isolating staff, business depression or government directive. This means lots of empty buildings, which presents plentiful opportunities for offenders. Security officers have been busy protecting these empty buildings or supporting the remaining skeleton staff.
These examples show just how crucial a role the security professionals play in the protection of the public, businesses and assets at this unprecedented time. Their physical proximity to the public puts them on the frontline in the battle to ensure the safety of others – the government has now classified license-holding security professionals as critical workers –
while they themselves could be at risk.
The very nature of the service that security personnel provide – to protect people and property – puts them at greater risk of harm than many other occupations. Indeed, a recent ONS (Office for National Statistics in the UK) report says that “COVID-19 exposure will be highest among occupations involving frequent and close interaction with others, either directly… or indirectly”. And it reveals how male security guards are among those most at risk.
Security personnel most at risk
There are potential consequences for security companies and individual security personnel working on the front line to protect critical assets and ensure public safety. This demonstrates the importance of ensuring that security officers have access to quality PPE when on duty, to provide as much protection as possible.
“The government is clear that the responsibility for undertaking a proper risk assessment, and implementing the necessary measures, rests with the employer. We agree with this approach, because only the employer can understand the specific details on the ground.”
Ian Todd. CEO, Security Industry Authority
Working in the security sector as a door supervisor or security guard has always meant being aware of the surrounding environment to ensure the safety of employees or the public and preventing loss or damage to property. But now, with this new threat, it is more vital than ever before that security professionals are prepared for the unexpected and equipped with the skills to deal with individuals who could put others at risk, to ensure the safety of themselves and the people they protect.
How can security firms adapt?
Nothing has prepared us for the drastic changes that we’ve seen in our society in the last four months. And security firms will have to adapt further as these changes embed themselves in our society.
Advanced technology will need to play an increasingly prominent part in the future of security. Software which offers the same level of security without the need for putting bodies at risk, such as equipment with clear remote visibility of a vacant site, or advanced communication software – technology that helps security firms to be more efficient but helps keep security personnel safe as they work to protect those around them.
COVID-19 is an unseen threat and can have tragic consequences for many individuals and their families, which makes it all the more dangerous. Even the best-trained best-equipped security operative will not have an advantage against this threat as he would a felon. Yet, whilst they may not be recognised as frontline heroes like the medical personnel working in the NHS, it is the security personnel who will be working in the public eye and behind the scenes to support UK infrastructure, and in doing so are putting themselves at risk. And their role will continue to be vital as lockdown measures continue to ease and businesses start to function properly again.