For a couple of months now, our daily activities have been greatly affected due to the outbreak of the coronavirus. The “new normal” for many cities throughout the country was defined by closed down businesses, stay-at-homes orders, rising unemployment rates, and general uncertainty as a result of the COVID-19 Pandemic.
Despite the COVID-19 Pandemic, security measures must be taken into consideration. Security experts are being called upon more now than ever before to protect people and property. New security concerns are emerging as businesses begin to reopen under strict health and safety guidelines.
With the increased need for COVID-19 security guard services, there comes an even greater challenge for security officials to do their jobs while staying safe amidst the pandemic. If you are security personnel, it is in your best interest to understand as much as you can about staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Why we need the services of security personnel during the COVID-19 pandemic?
Retail organizations, healthcare facilities, corporate business parks, canteens, cybercafés’ and many other businesses are dealing with different security issues than in the past because of COVID-19. Many business owners and employees are finding it difficult to enforce social distancing measures while maintaining the daily operations of their businesses. Some businesses have experienced outbursts and violence from crazy customers who refuse to follow the safety guidelines that are put in place, while other businesses have closed their doors due to insecurity concerns.
In the current state of the country, professionally trained security guards are the best way to prevent crime and ensure that your business remains vigilant about enforcing health and safety protocols. Guards have specialized knowledge and skills that enable them to identify suspicious behavior, interact appropriately with the public, and professionally enforce rules.
How can security guards protect themselves and others?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have drafted specific guidelines for protecting yourself and others from contracting and spreading COVID-19. Besides, security guards should take further steps to safeguard themselves and the people they are hired to protect.
Maintain all basic health and safety protocols.
To reduce your risk and lessen the chances of spreading the virus to others, security officials must take basic precautions such as maintaining a distance of six feet from other people as much as possible, washing hands frequently, using hand and surface sanitizers and avoiding touching your face, nose, and mouth.
Use personal protection equipment consistently.
If you’ve used air transportation as a means of traveling, you know that in the event of an emergency you should secure your oxygen mask before assisting others with their masks. The same concept applies to COVID-19 protection when dealing with the public. While on duty, guards should wear the necessary Personal protective equipment, such as masks, eye covers, and gloves. Ask for this equipment from your client. If the client does not provide the appropriate PPE, you can purchase them for your own safety.
Recognize the symptoms of COVID-19.
Security guards have close interaction with the public. During the pandemic, security guards should invest time to learn the signs and symptoms of the virus. The ability to identify a potentially infected person, the better for them to take the necessary precautions, denying them access to the premises, or report the risk to your customer. Signs of the coronavirus are cough, body aches, sore throat, difficulty breathing, and fever.
Report exposure and take the appropriate body.
Just like any safety or security threat, security officials should understand the proper medium for reporting potential exposure to COVID-19. Document the incident and the response procedures are taken. By carefully reporting the incident, guards can help to stop the spread of the virus before it gets out of control.
Security guards have been essential during the coronavirus pandemic. While they continue to do their jobs, guards must consider health and safety protocols. By following the suggestions above, security guards can greatly reduce their personal risk and the risk to others.
