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Security guard·Study material

Study material

Study guidance: Security guard

Security is as much about knowledge and judgement as it is about physical strength. Aim to understand your powers and limits so well that you can explain not just what you do, but why you are allowed — or not allowed — to do it. This is the core of a regulated trade.

The Five Things That Carry the Trade

  • 01Observe and report: the shift's core task—not to use force
  • 02Prevent: visible presence prevents more than intervention
  • 03Know the limit: you do not have police powers
  • 04Communication: words before force, calm before escalation
  • 05Documenting: a factual, accurate report is often proof

How to read the material

Read each article and ask: What may I do here — and what may I not? The trade is regulated, so it is just as important to know your limits as your tasks. Understand why the rules are there, and you'll remember them even under pressure.

Central concepts

ConceptShort explanation
AuthorisationPublic permit to run a security company
ApprovalAuthorities' approval of individual guards (age, conduct, training)
Self-defenceRight to defend yourself/others against an attack — only defensive and necessary
BothWhat a security guard may do; the guard does not have police powers
Incident reportFactual description: what, where, when, who, and what you did.
Confidentiality obligationConfidential matters are not shared

For the exam

Be ready to explain in your own words: why a guard does not have police powers, when force is permitted at all, and what makes a report useful. If you understand the principle behind the limits, you can answer even when a question is asked in a new way.