Security guards work in large organizations providing security in various settings. The numerous duties of a security guard may require that they work in a static or mobile position. In order to become a security guard, you must go through security license training.
Common tasks for a security guard could include monitoring the people entering and leaving the area, patrolling premises on foot, watching closed-circuit security feeds, etc. In the course of their duty, security guards communicate with law enforcement and other emergency services. They are tasked with documenting disturbances, and ensuring the property they are guarding is secure from criminal activities like theft, arson, and vandalism.
Requirements for Becoming a Security Guard
Typically, security guards in Ontario require a valid security license. This license also allows them to work as a bodyguard, concierge, bouncer, or loss prevention employee.
The requirements to qualify for a security license are:
- Must be 18 years or older
- Must qualify to work in Canada
- Cannot have a criminal record in Canada
- Must pass the Government regulated Security Guard Test
- Must be comfortable with the state Security Guard Code of Conduct
Training Programs for Security Guards
Security guards generally complete training before getting their security licenses. The minimum training is 40 hours long and includes emergency first aid training. Each trainee must also have a minimum of a Level A CPR certification.
State regulations vary, but armed security guards must pass a firearms exam, which requires extensive training. Each security license requires renewal every two years to ensure ongoing training on updates, local and state law reviews, and general updates on best practices for security guards.
Once training is completed, the trainee still needs to pass the security guard test.
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Security Guard Test
Upon completion of the security guard training, trainees are given their Training Completion Number (TCN) which will be used to sign up for the Ministry test. Participants could book the test online and complete it at one of Ontario test centres. The test can be scheduled online here, and costs $75.15 (tax included). Results from the test are usually available within two days. Once the test is successfully passed, it will allow the candidate to apply for a security guard license. If the candidate fails the test, it can be rebooked and taken as many times as necessary, but the full fee will be applied each time.
Acquiring the Ontario Security Guard License
Once the test results are received, the candidate can immediately apply for the security guard license online through Service Ontario. The licenses can take up to 30 days to be issued, but applicants would be able to check the status of their application online. Every security guard license is valid for two years after the date it was issued, and the same applies for each renewal.
Outlook for Security Guard License Holders
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), security guards start on a median salary of $28,530 annually. However, as the person gains experience, there are many opportunities for promotion to supervisory positions. Further education, for example, a Bachelor’s Degree in criminal justice, can also help with career advancements. Job prospects for security guards has continued to grow at a 6% rate in the decade between 2016 and 2026, the same pace as most occupations measured by the BLS.
Possible job titles include protection officer, security officer, security guard, and security director. Positions depend on the training completed and the experience gained.
Security guards often work eight-hour shifts on rotating schedules, and depending on the services offered, may need to work over weekends and holidays.
According to BLS reports, the profession does have a higher rate of injury and illness compared to other occupations. This is mostly because security guards often deal with unpredictable situations and individuals.
Most available jobs in the security industry are in companies offering armored car services, security guard services, and investigations.
Essential Skills and Experience
Licensed security guards’ jobs are entry-level and usually only require a high school diploma. Even though further education does offer an advantage, all security guards must have the following skills:
- Coherent and effective oral and written communication skills
- Critical and fast thinking ability in all situations
- To be mindful of customers and the general public while on the job
- In positions where firearm carrying is a requirement, the security guard must have the appropriate training and legal permission to carry one
- The ability to exercise good judgment in potentially dangerous situations
- Knowledge of the laws and regulations in the field
- Must be capable of working individually and within a team
Candidates for security guard positions often have an advantage if they speak a second language and have previous experience in military or law enforcement.
If you are ready to earn your security license, be sure to register for a security training course with our Security License training partner! Don’t forget to register for a First Aid & CPR/AED training course as well, another requirement for becoming a security guard.
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