Technology is changing almost every job on the planet, and the Security Guard industry is part of that shift. Most of the new trends in the industry relate to technology, whether it’s enhanced video surveillance, video management systems or more sophisticated access control. Technology has enhanced the role of the modern Security Guard.
Increased Professionalism
Today’s Security Guards are increasingly professional. They receive much the same type of training given to the military and police. In addition, private security professionals are more likely to interact and work directly with public safety officials than in the past.
Teamwork
In the past, Security Guards often worked alone. For guards employed in all but the smallest operations, that is now seldom the case. Guards who do work alone can easily summon assistance via electronic devices. Not only does teamwork protect guards; it lessens the odds of a security breach.
Counter-Terrorism
Because we live in age of global terrorism, Security Guards in many situations must undergo additional training. This includes emergency crisis training in dealing with bomb threats or suicide attackers. This type of training is crucial for Security Guards working at vulnerable targets such as shopping malls, transportation systems or major infrastructure. Many Security Guards, in essence, are in counter-terrorism roles, and are the public’s first line of defense in the event of a terrorist attack.
Specialized Training
There’s less one-size-fits-all training for Security Guard duties. Increasingly, training is geared toward the specific industry in which the security detail works. For example, guards protecting retail stores receive in-depth training on recognizing and deterring theft, while those employed in personnel receive education on biometrics, identity management and various recognition devices.
Random Patrolling
Many companies are phasing out standard security patrol routes in favor of random patrolling. It doesn’t take a criminal mastermind to observe a standard security route and plan a crime accordingly. Random patrolling, with times and routes programmed into GPS and other systems, lessens predictability.
Projected Job Growth
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a Security Guard job growth rate of 5 percent between 2014 and 2024. That’s 2 percent below the 7 percent average growth rate for all occupations. The actual increase in the number of Security Guards in that 10-year period is 55,000. In 2014, 1,102,500 individuals were employed as security or gaming surveillance guards. The median pay as of May 2015 was $11.87 per hour, or $24,680 annually. The rise of minimum wage limits in many jurisdictions may raise the median pay sooner than would ordinarily occur.
Where the Jobs Are
As of May 2015, the states with the highest number of Security Guards are:
- California
- New York
- Texas
- Florida
- Illinois
The metropolitan areas with the highest employment levels of Security Guards are:
- New York, northern New Jersey
- Los Angeles
- Chicago
- Washington, D.C.
- Houston
- Dallas
- Atlanta
- Miami
- Phoenix
- Las Vegas
While some Security Guard duties have been replaced by technology, there is no substitute for an actual person on the premises. Hackers may disable electronic security precautions, but they can still be foiled by eyes on the ground. As technology continuously evolves it’s vital Security Guards stay ahead of the hackers. Protection with a Security Guard Insurance policy is one of the best decisions to make. Call El Dorado Insurance for your quote
