‹ Back

Security Work Isn’t Just Dangerous — It’s Often Overlooked

 

Let’s Talk About Health & Safety

 

Date: December 5, 2024

By RJW Group

 

 

Security guards are trained to look out for danger. But who’s looking out for them?

 

From late-night patrols to medical calls to unpredictable encounters with the public, security personnel face real health and safety risks every day. And yet, in many businesses, their safety protocols are the least developed.

 

At RJW Group, we think that needs to change.

 

What “Health & Safety” Really Means in Security

 

In most workplaces, health and safety means a first aid kit or a fire drill. But for guards, it’s much more serious:

 

• Working alone in stairwells, garages, rooftops
• Responding to medical or violent incidents
• Exposure to hazardous materials or biofluids
• Risk of assault or verbal abuse
• Burnout from long shifts and trauma exposure

 

This is frontline work, and the risks are real.

 

Top Hazards in Security Work

 

Lone Worker Risk

 

Guards often work alone at night with no backup nearby.

 

Emergency Response Stress

 

They’re the first to respond in fires, power failures, or medical emergencies.

 

Mental Health Burnout

 

Aggression, conflict, or trauma can leave lasting effects.

 

Improper PPE or Equipment

 

From dead radios to missing gloves—gear matters.

 

Why It Gets Ignored

 

Many assume the security company is handling all this. But unless someone reviews the risks on-site, gaps are common. And guards rarely report issues unless there’s a system in place.

 

What RJW Group Does Differently

 

• Site-specific health & safety assessments
• Lone worker protocols (check-ins, duress systems)
• Mental health awareness and referral support
• PPE audits and equipment reviews
• Joint safety planning with property teams
• Post-incident debriefs and follow-ups

 

We don’t just talk safety—we build it into every site we manage.

 

Five Questions You Should Ask

 

1. Do guards have a health & safety binder or board on-site?
2. Are lone worker risks identified and reduced?
3. Do they have working radios, PPE, emergency keys?
4. Have they been trained in CPR, de-escalation, overdose response?
5. Is there a culture where guards feel safe reporting concerns?

 

If you’re unsure about any of these, it’s time for a review.

 

Security Only Works If It’s Safe

 

A guard can’t protect your property if they aren’t protected themselves. Let’s make sure your site is not just secure—but safe for the people protecting it.

 

📩 support@rjwgroup.org
🌐 rjwgroup.org