Liability Issues with Security Guards

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Liability Issues with Security Guards

Loss prevention and security are major concerns for a wide range of businesses. Businesses looking to secure the environment often look to security guards as a way of maintaining order. On-site security staff can provide watchful eyes in a busy retail environment. The presence of uniformed guards also provides a visual deterrent to would-be criminals.

Still, there are also some drawbacks to having live on-site security. In an ideal world, a security guard would never have to confront anyone. But in reality, this is a normal part of the job. Security staff will possibly encounter people who are disruptive at best and criminal at worst. A confrontation gone wrong can pose a serious liability risk to your business.

Common Liability Issues Related to Security Staff

  • Injury: Either the guard or another person could be hurt.
  • Excessive Force: Unnecessary or even violent contact can happen when tensions are high.
  • Property Damage: An altercation can damage personal property, and your business could be held liable.
  • False Imprisonment: Illegally detaining someone can carry serious legal consequences.

Let’s not ignore the additional cost of negative publicity. Today, it’s a bigger factor than ever. The growth of social media has given everyone a public platform and a negative message regarding your business can spread like wildfire. The results could include a loss of reputation and revenue.

The presence of a security guard can also be off-putting for some customers.

Some of these risks can be reduced with proper training. However, no one seems to agree on the exact definition of “proper training.” Training programs vary from company to company and from location to location.

Demand is growing for good security. In the effort to fill clients’ needs, some security companies may cut corners on training to reduce costs and to speed hiring and scheduling staff. Their training shortcuts can cost you money.

Even if your security crew is well trained and prepared, liability issues can still arise. Eyes and minds can become fatigued after a few hours on the job. On-site staff can also lose objectivity when dealing with people they know. The risk of liability increases if guards are armed. Can your business be held liable for security mishaps? Absolutely.

Extra insurance can cover most of these risks, but there is a cost. As the possibility of damage or injury increases, as it does when guards are armed, the price of coverage also goes up. When the cost of insurance is added to the cost of hiring and paying on-site security personnel, the expense can become burdensome.

Is there any way to maintain security without the costly risks associated with on-site guards?

The Best Alternative to Traditional Security

NVMC Solutions is a leading provider of live video monitoring. We install and maintain the latest video surveillance technology across the U.S., we employ and train agents who then monitor those systems remotely after hours responding to threat issues in real-time at a fraction of the cost of on-site guards.

Benefits of Live Video Monitoring:

  • 75% Cheaper than One On-Site Guard
  • 24/7 Real-Time U.S.-Based Site Monitoring
  • 10x Faster Response than the Competition
  • Insurance Discount for Monitored Security

At NVMC Solutions, we’re committed to passion, integrity and excellence. If you would like more information about our customized live video monitoring solutions to protect your property, please contact us.

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