Introduction to Security

Introduction

Starting from April 15th, 2010, the government of Ontario introduced regulations for the security guard and private investigator industry, which include mandatory training for security guards. This training mandates individuals to complete 40 hours of security guard training, which incorporates 7.5 hours of Emergency First Aid and CPR training as part of the total 40 hours.

The main purpose of this training program is to enhance your understanding of the operations and regulations related to your role as a security guard. To obtain your security guard license, you must successfully complete and pass the provincial examination. This specific training program addresses most of the questions you may have about your responsibilities and provides essential information to help you pass the mandatory licensing exam set by the ministry.

Our training program aligns with the standards outlined by the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, and it has been reviewed by Private Security and Investigative Services Officer Gary Olsen, who confirmed that the course meets the ministry’s requirements.

Before 2005, the security guard and private investigator industry operated under the Private Investigators and Security Guard Act of 1966 R.S.O 1990. However, this legislation became outdated as the industry evolved and its regulations no longer effectively met its needs. The industry had expanded beyond the scope of the 1990 Act, necessitating a significant overhaul, which led to the introduction of the Private Security and Investigative Services Act of 2005 (PSISA, RSO 2005).

Today, all security guards and private investigators are governed by the PSISA, RSO 2005. One of the key provisions of this new legislation was the establishment of a standard training requirement for individuals aspiring to become security guards.

The 1966 R.S.O 1990 Act was ill-equipped to accommodate the changes in the rapidly growing security guard industry, as well as the evolving roles and responsibilities of security guards. In the past, security guards primarily had limited responsibilities and often acted more like placeholders than individuals with minor law enforcement duties, which is different from their current roles, where they may take on additional responsibilities, but only if it is safe to do so.

Some other provinces had already implemented standards for the security guard industry, which had not been adopted in Ontario. Additionally, event security personnel such as bouncers or in-house security were previously not subject to the legislation and regulations. With the introduction of the PSISA, RSO 2005, these individuals are now brought under standardized governance, creating consistency across the industry. This shift from the 1966 Act, which had the potential for a less regulated environment, has now established security as a regulated profession governed by the provisions set out in the PSISA, RSO 2005.

The catalyst for change in the security guard industry was the tragic death of Patrick Shand on September 14, 1999. Patrick Shand, a young and promising individual, lost his life due to the unfortunate circumstances of restraint asphyxia. This shocking incident sent shockwaves through the industry, highlighting the pressing need for significant improvements.

In the aftermath of Patrick Shand’s untimely death, a Coroner’s Inquest was held to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Coroner’s jury, after careful examination and deliberation, came to a profound realization – the legislation governing the security guard industry was woefully outdated. The existing regulations had been in place since 1966 and failed to address the evolving challenges and demands of the modern era.

The tragedy of Patrick Shand’s death served as a wake-up call, galvanizing the industry and stakeholders to push for crucial reforms. The incident shed light on the inadequacies and deficiencies that were prevalent within the security guard industry and underscored the importance of comprehensive changes.

Recognizing the urgency for change, various industry leaders and advocacy groups rallied together, championing a cause that was long overdue. They called for a thorough review of the existing legislation, advocating for measures that would enhance the standards, training, and accountability of security guards.

Their efforts were not in vain. In response to the growing demand for change, lawmakers and government officials initiated crucial discussions and consultations. Stakeholders from all corners of the industry were invited to share their expertise, insights, and recommendations on how to improve the safeguards in place.

Over time, these collaborative efforts culminated in a series of reforms that aimed to modernize the security guard industry. The new legislation incorporated a wide range of measures, including enhanced training requirements, stricter vetting processes, and improved oversight mechanisms. These changes sought to ensure that security guards were better equipped to handle the complexities and challenges they faced on a daily basis.

While the tragedy of Patrick Shand’s death remains a painful reminder of the need for continuous improvement, it has served as a catalyst for positive change in the security guard industry. The tireless work of advocates and the commitment of lawmakers have paved the way for a safer and more accountable profession, helping to prevent similar incidents and protect the well-being of both security guards and the general public.

The jury’s verdict highlighted the importance of adapting to the times, noting that many changes had occurred since the old Act was established in 1966. Over the years, society had evolved, as had the challenges and dynamics of security. In light of these changes, the jury emphasized the pressing need for a comprehensive overhaul of the existing legislation.

Throughout their deliberations, the jury recognized that provincial leadership had undergone significant shifts, with new perspectives and priorities emerging in the realm of security. It became clear that these changes necessitated a fresh approach, one that would address the current realities and demands faced by security professionals and the communities they serve.

One of the key recommendations put forth by the jury was the implementation of mandatory training programs for security guards. As they examined various cases and heard testimonies, the jury observed that inadequate training often resulted in security personnel being ill-prepared to handle challenging situations effectively. Therefore, they stressed the importance of establishing standardized training protocols that would equip security guards with the knowledge and skills needed to carry out their duties competently while ensuring the safety of the public.

In addition to training, the jury highlighted the significance of licensing for security guards. They argued that licensing would not only establish a baseline level of competence but would also help weed out unqualified or unethical individuals from the profession. By implementing a licensing system, the security industry could ensure that only qualified professionals with the necessary credentials and integrity would be entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding public spaces.

The jury’s comprehensive examination of the existing Act and their astute recommendations showcased a commitment to ensuring the highest standards of security provision. Their acknowledgment of the ever-evolving landscape and the need for legislative adjustments echoed the sentiment that security is a vital aspect of contemporary society that can never stand still. It is only by adapting and improving our systems that we can effectively protect and foster secure environments for all.

Prior to the recommendations stemming from the Shand Inquest, the old Act governing the security industry had remained unchanged for twenty-four years. The suggested changes included the following:

Amendments to the Legislation Governing Private Security
An Urgent Need for Change
Implementation of Mandatory Training, Recertification Standards, and a Defined Curriculum for Security Professionals
Introduction of a License Classification System
Establishment of Proper Identification Measures for Security Personnel
Enforcement of Record-Keeping Requirements and Proper Equipment Usage
Introduction of Portability for Security Licenses
Mandating Reporting of Use of Force Incidents
Inclusion of an Advisory on Excited Delirium
Implementation of Specialized Training for Guards Assigned to Roles Involving the Use of Force

The first nine recommendations on the list have already been put into effect, while the final one appears to be a work in progress. The security guard industry collectively hopes that the last recommendation will be implemented and enforced in the near future, further solidifying this profession as a regulated and standardized field.

The implementation of these recommendations is vital for the enhancement of security services. By enforcing stricter regulations and standards, the industry can better ensure the safety and well-being of both security personnel and the individuals they protect. It will lead to a professionalization of the sector, urging security companies to invest in ongoing training, background checks, and proper equipment for their guards.

Moreover, standardized regulations will also facilitate better communication and collaboration between private security firms and law enforcement agencies. Sharing information and intelligence will become more streamlined, enabling a more efficient response to potential threats and incidents. Ultimately, this collaboration will contribute to a safer environment for businesses, communities, and individuals alike.

In addition to the benefits in terms of security and professionalism, the implementation of these recommendations will also have economic advantages. By establishing clear guidelines, potential clients will have a better understanding of what to expect from security service providers. This transparency will foster trust in the industry, leading to an increase in demand for services and potential growth for security companies.

Overall, the security guard industry eagerly awaits the implementation of the final recommendation. The steps taken so far have already made a positive impact, and with the full execution of all the recommendations, there is a great potential for the industry to elevate its standards and contribute to a safer society.

This comprehensive course is meticulously crafted to equip you with the essential knowledge and skills required to embark on a successful career in the field of security. Whether you are a beginner or seeking to enhance your existing skill set, this course offers a step-by-step learning journey that ensures you gain a deep understanding of the crucial concepts in security guarding.

The carefully designed course serves as your trusty companion throughout your learning journey. Its content are meticulously filled with invaluable information, presented in a clear and concise manner. You will find yourself fully engaged as you dive into the various sections, each covering essential topics such as security procedures, emergency response protocols, access control, surveillance techniques, and much more. The training program is meticulously structured to complement the program by integrating instructional videos that provide visual demonstrations and real-life scenarios, bringing the concepts to life.

As you progress through the course, you will have the opportunity to put your knowledge to the test through thought-provoking quizzes. These quizzes not only serve as a self-assessment tool but also reinforce your understanding of the material. By the end of the course, you will feel confident and prepared to tackle the challenges that come with a career in security guarding.

Whether you aspire to work in residential complexes or condominiums, office buildings, retail establishments, or any other security-related environment, this course equips you with the essential skills and knowledge needed to excel.

If you encounter any concepts or topics that you find challenging to understand, don’t hesitate to raise your questions during the live class or schedule a discussion with an instructor during regular business hours from 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday. Our trainers come from the security industry and actively work as security guards outside of the training environment. They bring valuable real-world experience to provide you with practical examples from the security field. As you begin your career as a security guard, you will continue to gain essential on-the-job experience, either through your employer’s guidance or by being attentive and proactive in your role.

This training provides a broad overview of the roles and obligations of a Security Guard, along with the legal expectations placed on them. It’s important to recognize that successfully passing the ministry’s exam is ultimately the student’s responsibility. However, students can gain sufficient familiarity with the course materials to enable them to complete and pass the examination. We strongly encourage all students to continue reviewing the course materials, including written content, videos, and informational resources, to maintain and enhance their knowledge.

As a security guard, there are at least six areas of employment open to you.

Private Investigator
By-Law Enforcement Ofﬁcer (Parking Control)
Loss prevention
Security patrol
Mobile patrol services
Concierge/Static

Private Investigators

Private investigators must complete an additional 80 hours of training to become certiﬁed. The training requirements for a Private Investigator include:
Earning a separate license
Possibly working in plain clothes, without a uniform
Gaining a detailed understanding of the Evidence Acts

If you are interested in becoming a private investigator, there are speciﬁc attributes that you should consider. Before embarking on further qualiﬁcations as a private investigator, decide if you:

Are very detail oriented and highly organized
Demonstrate excellent attention to detail
Show ﬁnely honed writing and documentation skills
Have special knowledge of recording devices

You must have detailed knowledge of the following legislation:

The Canadian Evidence Act
The Ontario Evidence Act
The Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act
Criminal Code of Canada

By-Law Enforcement Ofﬁcer (MLEO)

By-Law Enforcement Ofﬁcers must pass a Municipal Parking Enforcement Ofﬁcer Program. Their role is supplemental to other security guard duties. Remember, they can only conduct parking enforcement duties on private property.

Loss Prevention

If you work in loss prevention you will generally be working for a retail corporation, employed by a shop or group of shops. Your job will be to assist in shrink reduction of product and to apprehend shop-lifters. You will possibly work in plain clothes and possibly be involved in internal employee investigations. In some cases you may act as a secret shopper to gain information “under cover”.

Security Patrol

Security Patrol are uniformed security services. You will be working for a private company or public property interests. Usually this means walking patrols in or around the property. Most often this means shopping centres, ofﬁce buildings, malls or corporate facilities.

Mobile Patrol Services

To act as mobile patrol services, you normally must have a full class “G” driver’s license with a clean driving record. You may need to be of a certain age to meet insurance company guidelines. You will probably be driving a marked security patrol vehicle. You will normally be working alone and often with mobile supervisors, so you must be fairly self-reliant. Your job will be to patrol multiple buildings within a speciﬁc area and to respond, as needed, to alarms for a client’s facilities.

Concierge/Static

As a Concierge, you usually work in residences (condominiums or apartment complexes). You will have a high level of customer service interaction with tenants and guests. Your job is to respond to emergencies such as ﬁre alarms & elevator stoppages. Normally the role is conducted in uniform or a suit. You must remain standing or sitting for extended periods. A Concierge must be familiar with the residential tenancy act. The job may require a candidate to qualify for the parking enforcement MLEO course.

General Job Description:

Whatever role you ﬁnd yourself in, the primary responsibility of a security guard is to observe, deter and report on all security related issues in regards to a client’s property. You will conduct order and maintenance patrols of the site. You will conduct a visual inspection of the property for damage and or miscreant activity. You will conduct interventions up to and including arrests, removals or issue barring notices as warranted. And ﬁnally, you must act in a manner as to reﬂect a positive image on behalf of the client and the company.

General Qualification:

A security background is preferred. You should demonstrate organizational skills and the ability to multi- task. You will need excellent communication skills, both written and verbal English. You will have to demonstrate excellent customer service qualities and the ability to prioritize responsibilities. You must be a minimum of 18 years of age and have no outstanding criminal charges in any country, province or state for which you have not received an ofﬁcial pardon. For most positions, you must be able to work full rotational shifts.

Benefits and Challenges of a Security Guard:

A Security Guard is a highly interactive and people-oriented career. It offers a constantly changing environment. Most positions have progressive responsibility, offering a constant learning curve. The job demands a high degree of self- reliance and the ability to cope with changing situations. It’s as challenging as you would like to make it.

Most security positions work afternoons and evenings and rotational shifts. There are few day-time positions available outside of supervisory functions.

And, of course, there are always potential legal repercussions for your actions.

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Part 2

Part 3

Part 4

Learning Journals

Journals typically fall into one of two categories: they can be either objective and analytical, or private and introspective, geared towards personal growth and cultivating productive thinking. Your choice between these styles depends on your personal preference and the specific goals you have for your journaling practice.

An objective and analytical journal focuses on the external world and events, encouraging you to observe and analyze the situations and experiences you encounter. This style can be particularly helpful for professionals in various fields who want to refine their critical thinking skills. By recording and reflecting on their observations, they can gain valuable insights, identify patterns, and make better-informed decisions.

On the other hand, a private and introspective journal is more personal and emphasizes self-reflection. In this type of journaling, you delve into your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs. It allows you to explore your inner world, gain self-awareness, and nurture personal growth. This style of journaling can be beneficial for anyone seeking self-expression, managing stress, and fostering creativity.

It’s worth noting that these two styles are not mutually exclusive, and you can incorporate elements of both in your journaling practice. Some individuals prefer to start with objective observations by jotting down events, conversations, or even quotes that they find interesting. Then, they take the time to reflect on their reactions, thoughts, and feelings inspired by those observations.

Moreover, journaling is a flexible practice that can be adapted to different environments and purposes. Whether you prefer a traditional pen and paper journal, a digital platform, or even a multimedia approach with photos and drawings, the key is to find a method that resonates with you and encourages consistent engagement. Experimenting with different styles, prompts, or techniques can also help keep your journaling practice fresh and stimulating.

In conclusion, the choice between an objective and analytical journal or a private and introspective one ultimately depends on your goals, interests, and preferences. You may find that blending these two approaches in your journaling practice can provide a well-rounded experience that nurtures not only your critical thinking skills but also your personal growth and self-awareness.

Numerous thoroughly investigated studies demonstrate that this approach fosters critical thinking.
Student learning is enriched through the use of learning journals.
Learning journals serve as a valuable complement to in-class learning.
They encourage self-awareness as a key outcome.
These journals aid in the development of personal skills.
They facilitate the connection of ideas and concepts to real-life situations.
The inclusion of a learning journal is a mandatory component of the Ministry curriculum.

Researchers concur that a journal should not be used as a platform for expressing unfounded opinions. Instead, it should be seen as an approach that combines content and process, with the aim of helping students in various ways. These include facilitating the learning of course materials, rendering learning more relevant, meaningful, and memorable, establishing connections between theory and practice, and fostering personal and professional growth through reflective thinking.

Journaling is a powerful practice that can greatly enhance your personal growth and overall well-being. The process involves the act of writing down your thoughts, feelings, and experiences in a structured manner. By regularly engaging in journaling, you create a space for self-reflection, self-expression, and self-discovery.

One of the main benefits of journaling is its ability to promote clarity and mental focus. When you put pen to paper and articulate your thoughts, you gain a deeper understanding of your emotions and the events happening around you. This clarity can help you make better decisions, solve problems more effectively, and navigate through life’s challenges with resilience.

Journaling also serves as a means of stress relief and emotional release. By pouring out your thoughts and feelings onto the pages of your journal, you can empty your mind of worries, anxieties, and negative emotions. This act of release can provide a sense of catharsis and freedom, allowing you to experience a greater sense of calm and peace.

Additionally, journaling can serve as a tool for self-discovery and personal growth. As you reflect on your past experiences, analyze your patterns of behavior, and explore your dreams and aspirations, you gain valuable insights into your true self. This process of self-discovery can lead to greater self-awareness, increased self-confidence, and a deeper connection with your authentic desires and values.

Incorporating journaling into your daily routine can also help you track your progress and set goals. By documenting your thoughts, actions, and achievements, you can gain a clear perspective on where you are and where you want to be. Setting intentions and writing down your goals in your journal can bring them to life, making them more tangible and achievable.

To get started with journaling, you can simply set aside a dedicated time and space for writing. Choose a journal that resonates with you, and allow yourself the freedom to write without judgment or self-censorship. You can begin by writing about your current thoughts, emotions, and experiences, or you can explore specific journaling prompts or themes that interest you.

Remember, there is no right or wrong way to journal. The most important thing is to be consistent and authentic in your practice. Whether you write daily, weekly, or whenever inspiration strikes, the act of journaling can be a transformative and rewarding journey of self-discovery.

These include facilitating the learning of course materials, rendering learning more relevant, meaningful, and memorable, establishing connections between theory and practice, and fostering personal and professional growth through reflective thinking.

Here’s a breakdown of the journaling process:

The student starts by recording or annotating a course theme, issue, principle, concept, or a lecture, tutorial, activity, or event in an objective and factual manner.
Afterward, they engage in reflection and introspection, delving deeper into the subject through writing.
This process encompasses both subjective and personal interpretations of the topic.
The student considers the relevance, emotional resonance, and personal significance of the subject matter

The journal serves as a tool for students to not only capture their understanding of the material but also to explore their personal connection to it and its implications for their growth and development

Lectures

In a nutshell, when journaling lectures provide a concise overview of the subjects discussed in the lecture and share your personal impressions and noteworthy takeaways. Feel free to emphasize the aspects that resonate most with you and any queries that have arisen. Additionally, elucidate the practical relevance of the content to your professional life. Providing specific examples of insights gained from the lectures or videos and how they relate to your daily work would be highly beneficial.

Readings

Certainly! Here’s an extended version of the previous content:

When journaling readings in the context of your studies as a security guard, it is essential to provide a comprehensive overview of the subjects addressed in the readings. This allows you to not only capture the main ideas but also delve into the intricacies that hold significance for you both as a student and as a prospective security guard.

In your journal, emphasize the key aspects that resonate with the lectures or your understanding of the covered concepts. By making connections between the readings and the lectures, you can deepen your understanding and integrate the knowledge gained from both sources effectively.

However, don’t stop at simply summarizing the readings. Engage in a critical analysis that evaluates the strengths and weaknesses of the reading materials. Assess their relevance to you personally and explore how they align with your future role as a security guard.

Take a moment to reflect on each reading and consider its impact on your individual journey. What aspects of the reading truly resonated with you? Did it provide practical insights that you can directly apply in your future responsibilities in security? Evaluate what worked well and what fell short in terms of its applicability to your specific context. This analysis will help you identify the most valuable and actionable information from the readings.

Furthermore, consider the different perspectives presented in the readings. Are there any conflicting ideas or viewpoints? Explore the reasons behind these discrepancies and form your own informed opinions. This level of critical thinking will enable you to better navigate the complexities of the security industry and make informed decisions in your future role.

Remember, your journal serves not only as a tool for reflection but also as a valuable resource for future reference. By thoroughly documenting your thoughts and insights on the readings, you create a personal knowledge bank that you can revisit whenever needed, ensuring a continuous learning journey.

So, when approaching your journaling practice, go beyond a mere summary. Embrace critical analysis, reflection, and personal relevance to truly extract the full benefits of the reading materials and integrate them into your growth as a security professional.

Critical Incident

In this section, you have the opportunity to delve into the various events or incidents that have occurred over the course of the week and relate them back to the subjects covered. By reflecting on these occurrences, you can not only gain a deeper understanding of the material but also highlight their significance within the broader context of the course.

It is worth noting that this section is not merely about summarizing the events that took place, but rather about exploring the underlying meaning behind them. By analyzing these situations, you can identify patterns, draw connections, and develop a more comprehensive perspective on the course topics.

Additionally, this section invites you to ponder the “light bulb moments” that you may have experienced throughout the course. These moments of sudden realization or breakthrough can be incredibly enlightening, as they often signify a shift in your understanding or a deepening of your knowledge. By focusing on these moments, you can illustrate how they relate to the course material and how they have influenced your overall comprehension.

Remember, the purpose of this section is to not only recount the events and moments but to provide thoughtful analysis and critical reflection. By doing so, you can showcase your engagement with the course material and demonstrate your ability to connect theory with real-life situations. Embrace this opportunity to offer a rich and comprehensive account of your learning journey.

Let’s summarize

The role of a security guard has evolved to encompass a wider range of responsibilities, including serving and assisting the general public, as well as interacting with various official services like the police. To excel in this role and fulfill your duties responsibly, it’s essential to have a comprehensive understanding of the scope, demands, and both the positive and negative aspects of your position.

This introductory section has offered you a foundation for understanding the security guard role, raising your awareness about the nature of the job. Armed with this knowledge, you can better determine which aspects of the profession align with your personal needs and career aspirations.

Despite its demands, being a security guard can be a highly rewarding profession, and it comes with a sense of honor. We anticipate that you will gain valuable experience and knowledge while applying your existing skills and further enhancing them as you embark on this journey.

While this section served as an introduction, the subsequent sections will delve into more practical and technical details related to the security guard profession, providing you with the tools and information you need to succeed in this field.