Security Guard Services in Atlanta

Changing Security Guard Companies in Atlanta, GA?

Learn more about security officers, their roles and duties.

We rarely pay attention to the people standing guard in our workplaces, companies, apartments or social amenities. Most employees probably don’t even know the name of that man they have been passing for the last five years as they move to their workstations. To such employees, a guard could be seen as just another person on the payroll that has to work to get their paycheck at the end of the month. Still, the security guard could be the only person who dares to save the lives of the staff when disaster strikes at the workplace at a time that everyone else scurries to safety.

Security Guards Offer Numerous Benefits

Crime Prevention

People have second thoughts about committing a crime when they spot a security guard in the area. Paranoia could also help to deter crime when a person thinks the guard is watching even when he is preoccupied elsewhere. However, there are those who have guts and will attempt to vandalize the premises or steal a product displayed for sale. However with the security guard always on the lookout for such people, they put your business in a position to immediately respond to various incidents which will mitigate potential damages.

Enhanced Customer Service

It is common to hear of a child getting lost in the mall or amusement park. While the parents frantically search for their child, security guards will most likely be the first to find him or her stranded and announce their custody of the lost child on the public address system to make it easier for the parents to recover them.

Moreover, how many times have customers visited a building and wandered around looking for a specific office? Usually, the first person they will turn to for help is the security guard who will provide directions to help them out.

Brand Awareness

Security guards don’t just look good in uniform; a company can use them to enhance its corporate image. Besides, a security guard in uniform who practices great communal works such as helping an old woman cross the road will do wonders for the reputation of your business. With a consciously-uniformed security guard, people will immediately associate such good deeds with the company.

Active Shooter Defense Options

Active shootouts are rare in Atlanta but still, they happen even in public places. In May 2018, there was a shooting incident near Mount Zion High School in Clayton which resulted in injuries to one woman and the death of another. Other incidents spanning from 2017 to 1999 include the shooting of a boy at Price Middle School, the killing of a man on the Savannah State University Campus and many more.

While such cases seem out of the norm, preparing security guards for such eventualities could save lives at private companies and public venues. Apart from guards, those running institutions including school administrators, church leaders or business executives can receive active shooter threat response training through programs offered by qualified instructors, like those employed by Nationwide Investigations & Security, Inc. A well-trained security guard has higher chances of stopping a shootout successfully, which will limit the potential for loss of life and subsequent liabilities.

Understanding Armed Security Guards

Determining whether or not to hire armed or unarmed security guards can be a tough decision. However, whether or not to prefer armed security guards depends on numerous factors which we’ve outlined below.

Propensity for Violence

Companies that have a past of violent outbreaks such as bars or nightclubs should employ an armed security guard. Also, some neighborhoods in Atlanta, GA are dangerous with the likelihood of people falling victim to violence being very high. Therefore operating a business in areas similar to Carter Street or Marietta Street should encourage a business owner to hire an armed security guard for preparedness’ sake. However, it is good to note that the sight of a gun could provoke violence hence keeping the firearms out of the public eye is may be advisable.

Type of Enterprise

To survive economically, businesses that deal in valuable goods must protect their products at all costs. A jewelry business or an art gallery may have millions of dollars in inventory, and an armed security guard will keep those valuables safe.

Armed security guards must pass two tests, firing range and written, with a minimum score of 80%. A business planning on having the guard carry a shotgun or other concealed weapon has to make a special request which details the intended duties of the guard and reasonable justification for certain firearms.

Unarmed Security Guards

Sometimes, businesses can remain relatively safe without the brandishment of weaponry or the need for lethal force. Some of the reasons that should motivate the hiring of an unarmed security officer include liability mitigation and budget controls.

Budget Limitations

In Atlanta, GA, an armed guard’s annual salary averages at $38,000 while an unarmed guard’s salary is around $25,000 per year. Therefore, a business that does not have much disposable income may have to make do with an unarmed guard. Besides, other costs such as insurance accompany armed guards and can take a toll on a business’s budget.

Minimize Liability

There are instances in which a master is liable for the actions of the servant. Therefore if an armed guard causes death or injury on the premises, the owner of the business can be held responsible. Firms that prefer to limit their exposure to such risks should employ unarmed guards to keep watch and should be provided with adequate communication tools should they need the assistance of local law enforcement.

Given the many benefits that businesses enjoy with trained security staff on site, any investment in safety is a worthy one that may save lives. From active shooter defense to ensuring the safety and protection of employees, customers, property, and the general public, the presence of security guards promulgates a stable and safe environment. If you have questions about hiring armed or unarmed security guards in Atlanta, GA, contact Nationwide Investigations & Security, Inc. today by calling us at 678-568-2257.