Screening security guards serve as a steadfast shield, safeguarding individuals’ well-being and property safety. The right candidate for a security guard position doesn’t necessarily need a degree, but most employers prefer candidates with a high school diploma or GED certificate, a security guard licence, or security training
Before hiring a security guard, four checks, a criminal background check, drug test, reference check, and a psychological evaluation should be made to ensure that the candidate is qualified and trustworthy. Take your time to screen potential security guards carefully.
Today, we will discuss these four essential checks to perform before hiring security guards.
Criminal background check
In the UK, security guards are required to have a standard criminal background check that goes back 5 years showing any cautions, convictions, warnings or reprimands against the candidate. It will also show any spent and unspent convictions.
The decision of whether to hire a security guard with a criminal record will depend on the nature of the offence, how long ago it was committed, and whether the individual has shown that they have reformed their behaviour. Extend your scrutiny to the candidate’s history in any other country where they’ve resided or worked.
Lastly, it’s crucial to ensure that the candidate has no past involvement in theft, violence, or substance abuse-related criminal activities. Conducting your criminal background checks takes centre stage in this process, Important for jobs that involve a high level of security, such as guarding sensitive information or working in a high-risk environment.
Reference check
A reference check is an essential part of the security guard screening process. It is a good way to get an idea of the security guard’s work experience and character. Contact the candidate’s previous employers to verify their work history and performance. Additional references, such as from teachers, coaches, or other mentors, the more references you can check, the better you will be able to assess the applicant’s suitability for the job.
Also, ask for references from the candidate’s previous supervisors or colleagues. The reference check should include questions about the candidate’s reliability, punctuality, and ability to work under pressure.
Drug test
The Security Industry Authority (SIA) requires security guards to pass a drug test to obtain a licence. Check that the security guard is not under the influence of drugs or alcohol while on the job. The most prevalent form of drug testing is the urine test, although alternative methods like blood tests and hair tests exist as well. The specific type of drug test that is used will depend on your policies and procedures.
Drug tests are typically conducted after a job offer has been made, but some employers may also require drug tests as part of the initial application process. The outcomes decide if the applicant meets the criteria for the role. This, although a contentious subject, stands as an integral facet of the security guard screening journey.
Physical fitness test
The specific requirements for the physical fitness test will vary depending on the job duties, but some common tests include:
- Running
- Push-ups
- Sit-ups
- Bodyweight exercises
These results will be used to determine whether the applicant is qualified for the position. The Security Industry Authority (SIA) requires security guards to pass a physical fitness test to obtain a licence. The test includes several different exercises, such as running, push-ups, sit-ups, and body weight exercises. The specific requirements for the SIA physical fitness test vary depending on the type of security licence that is being applied for.
Where to get Pre-Screened Security Guard Candidates
Looking for pre-screened security candidates? GuardPass offers pre-screened security guard candidates. We verify candidates’ profiles, including their SIA licences, employment history, education history, and also offer 20 second video intros. And at GuardFlex, we vet our workers and offer candidates with complete criminal history checks. Find pre-screened security guard candidates here.
Key Takeaways
It is essential to screen security guards carefully to ensure that they are qualified and trustworthy.
Above discussed checks can be conducted by the employer or by a third-party security screening company. The Security Industry Authority (SIA) in the UK also requires security guards to pass a physical fitness test to obtain a licence.
By conducting thorough screening, you can ensure that you hire security guards who are qualified, trustworthy, and physically capable of performing the job duties.
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