The coronavirus pandemic has disrupt the day to day activities of people throughout America. Forced business shutdowns, mandatory stay-at-home orders, and rising economic fears have quickly become many Americans’ new normal. For security professionals, however, the need to protect life and property is very important as well. However, that mission can also be even more challenging in this type of dangerous environment. If you are an Austin security guard, the best way to perform that mission while also helping to defeat the pandemic is to know as much as you can about Covid-19 protocols.
Security is Essential, Especially Now
In tough times like these, security is very important. Criminals and hoodlums can still pose a big threat to people and property, and law enforcement personnel’s cannot always be there to prevent these criminal activities. As an Austin security guard, you will still be expected to fulfill that important deterrent role, while also interacting with the public.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) is a respiratory disease that can be transmitted from person to person through sneezing, coughing, and even talking. Research shows that the virus can be transmitted by both symptomatic and asymptomatic carriers, which means that a completely healthy person can transmit the virus to you. As a result, it is important to follow all relevant guidelines for protecting yourself and those around you.
Proper Safety Protocols for Security Officers
By now, you should be aware of the government’s basic guidelines for minimizing the risk of exposure to this coronavirus. They include social distancing, avoiding hand contact with your face, and washing your hands from time to time. In addition, experts recommend using hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol content regularly.
Learn to Recognize Covid-19 Symptoms
As a security guard, it will be important for you to recognize the symptoms of Covid-19. According to experts, those symptoms can include everything from a dry cough and difficulty with breathing to a fever.
Use all Provided Personal Protection Equipment (PPE)
As a security personnel, it will be impossible for you to protect others if you cannot protect yourself. Personal protection equipment is vital in that effort. If you are familiar with PPE, then you know that it includes all of the safety equipment used by medical professionals, scientists, and others who are frequently exposed to pathogens and illnesses.
Implement the Right Access Control Protocols
While most people will be at home during the pandemic, you will undoubtedly still have to interact with members of the public. As you do, observe proper social distancing, and follow all protocols for examining credentials, conducting security searches, or engaging in any other communication. If anyone appears to have symptoms of Covid-19, follow your response guidelines. That may include contacting designated authorities or health personnel. If your job site requires that visitors be subjected to temperature checks or other health measures, follow those protocols to the letter to ensure everyone’s safety.
Finally, it is very important to recognize that security personnel and others who follow these types of protocols are generally considered to be at a low level of risk. That should provide at least some measure of peace of mind as you continue to perform your vital role in protecting life and property across New York City. With the right mindset and careful adherence to recommended guidelines, you can continue to help keep the city safe even during a serious virus outbreak like the currency Covid-19 pandemic.
