What powers do security guards have in the UK?

Security guards do have a lot of responsibility protecting premises and people from danger, but do they have any legal powers that are not possessed by the average person?

If you have ever been to a big sporting event, you will know that security guards are allowed to search you in some instances, you would hardly let a random person on the street do this, but they are still bound by the same laws as the rest of us and can get into serious trouble if they overstep the mark.

Fortunately, part of the extensive training that all security guards take part in involves ensuring that they are fully aware of the laws, rules, and regulations they must abide by.

What is a security guard allowed to do?

Before we look at the things that security guards are not allowed to do, we will first take a look at the things they are.

These are the tasks that most security officers from security companies near me will perform on a day-to-day basis and include:

• Working closely with the police – Whilst security officers certainly don’t have the same powers as the police, their professional training means their observations will often be taken more seriously by police attending an emergency.
• Conducting searches – Security officers are allowed to search bags and individuals entering or exiting private premises.
• Monitoring Individuals – Security officers will monitor CCTV systems on the look out for suspicious activity.

Are security officers allowed to touch you?

Contrary to popular belief, the amount of physical force a security guard is allowed to use is limited. They certainly can’t use force that would otherwise be deemed illegal if a member of the general public were to mirror it.

They can use contact to protect themselves and others from harm, but only in very select circumstances.

What are security guards not allowed to do?

• Charge you with criminal activity – Security guards are not the police, and the most they can do is to detain you until the police arrive.
• Carry weapons – Like any of us, security guards cannot carry any form of weapon on their person whilst on duty or otherwise.

Contrary to popular belief, the difference in the powers of security guards and any other member of society is pretty limited. Sure, their job means they may need to take more forceful action than most, but they are still bound by the same rules and restrictions as you and me.

What about door supervisors?

This is where things get a bit interesting. Door supervisors, or bouncers as they are often known, have the right to deny people entry to certain areas, but only in private places and they are given this responsibility by the venue owners, not by the Government or any other public body.

However, not all security guards can work as door supervisors. The role requires a little extra training to work on licenced premises where alcohol is served and it certainly isn’t a role suitable for the faint hearted!