As the times change, so must your security. Different technologies, trends, and social situations call for different services or methods when it comes to security guards and security systems. Stay on top of the latest with these tips and trends in 2022:

1. Incorporation of Technology in Security Guard Roles 

A security trend that has become popular and will likely continue far into the future, is the integration of both in-person security and technology-based security systems and phone applications. No longer are cybersecurity and security guards considered completely separate; many companies with security systems installed wish to also add private security guards for an elevated level of protection. Technology serves as a force multiplier, and significantly enhances the on-site security officer’s situational awareness. This allows your security guards to have “eyes everywhere,” yet only having to respond physically to situations when necessary. This “hybrid” method has proved to be extremely effective, accomplishing more with the same amount of people.

Another technological security “hybrid” advantage comes down to access. Since building and event access codes can be added to smartphones and personal devices, there will likely be less of a need for physical badges or hard-to-remember codes going forward. Our devices may be all we need to get into restricted areas in the near future.

With more high-tech cameras (that are now significantly more reliable, affordable and faster), different apps, and technological security measures that security guards can access right on their mobile devices, the integration of technology to in-person security will only continue to grow. These modern advantages make things easier for the people accessing buildings or events, as well as for the security who are managing them. The future should be a smoother and safer place in terms of security!

2. Worker Shortage

The Covid-19 outbreak that has occurred over the last few years has unfortunately affected the essential position of the security guard, as this is a job that cannot be done remotely. Due to the virus spreading with contact from one person to another, some security guards became sick at work, and this has led to fewer workers in this industry. The security guard shortage has become a trend that will likely continue into 2022, though it should hopefully bounce back in time, coinciding with the tapering off of the virus. Unfortunately, this is a trend currently being seen in many industries, as different strains of Coronavirus continue to form and infect people, prolonging this pandemic for two years already.

In order to ensure that your company is being guarded by the best, be sure to choose a security guard company that cares about their employees, and that invests in their employees. A happier and more satisfied worker will complete better and more thought-involved work. There will also be less turnover regarding employees, allowing you to create relationships with your security guard team which benefits all parties involved.

Technology can help to fill some of the gaps left by the current worker shortage, however, with increasing camera abilities that have become much more reliable and faster over the years. More can be accomplished by less physical security guards if need be, yet the best solution is always a good hybrid of them both.

3. Risk Assessment and Analysis 

Crime prevention and deterrence is a trend that will keep moving forward full-steam. While a part of security systems involves identifying criminals and problems after-the-fact, what seems to be most popular now is proactive risk management; preventing issues and crimes before they have a chance to happen. This is particularly important for any company that has valuable data, assets, or equipment that they need protected at all costs. Allowing trained security guard professionals to perform risk assessments at the job site is ideal, as this reveals vulnerabilities that may put property or people at risk, potentially saving your business time, money, and effectively protecting your employees and/or customers.

Technology plays an important role in this area of security as well, as advanced AI techniques like machine learning use predictive analytics to make statistical decisions about vast swathes of data– a method that is used in intelligent video analytics and other proactive monitoring solutions. This means that rather than just being a forensic analysis tool that is used after an incident, AI’s capabilities and speed mean that it is fast becoming a preventative tool, enabling security professionals to stop crime from taking place.

By successfully analyzing the risks and weaknesses of your building, business, security systems and access management, your security team is better prepared to handle these issues ahead of time, therefore preventing crime as well as preparing for it.

4. Extended Security Guard Training 

Whether or not your security guards have backgrounds in law enforcement or military,  training is still essential for security guards to be at the top of their game. In addition to general security training, the best placement firms will insist on extended training that is both industry-specific and addresses current threats. New threats or issues can and do arise in different industries, and it is imperative for your security team to stay up-to-date on the latest crime trends that could appear. These trends could be industry-specific, area-specific, or simply a widespread crime trend. Additional training could be offered to guards that have a specialized task or event in front of them. This security guard trend will likely continue onward, as it has been proven beneficial to specially train security teams often, and according to their specific tasks ahead of them.

 Contact Elite Guard For Your Security Guard Needs in 2022 
While it’s important to stay on top of the latest security guard trends, it is even more important to make sure that your security is coming from a reputable company that cares about you, your business, your employees, your customers, and your overall needs. Call Elite Guard today at 305-956-9520 or fill out our online form to find out more about how we can help you. Our team is dedicated to giving you personalized service that fits your needs, as well as your budget.