What Does A Factory Security Guard Do?

Factory security guards play a vital role in protecting industrial facilities, employees, and assets. Though the duties of a factory guard may seem straightforward – observe and report – the job is far more complex. Factory security guards are the eyes and ears of an industrial facility, remaining vigilant against threats from both inside and out. 

They monitor facilities using CCTV and access control systems, inspect buildings, respond to alarms, and investigate any suspicious activities. Guards enforce safety rules, receive visitors and contractors at facilities, and de-escalate confrontations between employees or trespassers. Excellent situational awareness, communication skills, and level-headedness under pressure are crucial. The responsibilities of factory guards have grown with the increasing threats of theft, vandalism, and workplace violence. 

This article will delve into the often unappreciated multitude of duties factory security guards perform daily to keep industrial facilities and workers safe and secure. Whether patrolling fence lines or manning security stations, factory guards are indispensable protectors of people, property, and profits.

 Main Responsibilities of a Factory Security Guard

Factory security guards have a broad range of key duties and responsibilities that keep facilities secure round the clock.

Access Control

One of the primary duties of factory security guards is controlling access to the facility. This includes:

• Operating security systems – Guards must be proficient in using access control systems, video surveillance systems, metal detectors, x-ray machines, and other security technologies.
• Monitoring CCTV cameras – Guards keep a close eye on live CCTV camera feeds monitoring activities throughout the facility. They look for security breaches, safety issues, or prohibited activities.
• Controlling facility entry – Guards authorize and track all visitors entering the premises. They manage the issuance of temporary badges and escort guests.

Conducting Rounds

Guards have to regularly patrol the facility and surrounding areas. During patrols guards:

• Check locks, gates and alarm systems to ensure they are functioning properly.
• Look for hazards, safety violations, or maintenance issues that need addressing.
• Verify that restricted areas remain secured.
• Watch for signs of contraband, theft or vandalism.
• Respond to emergencies or alarms triggered during the patrol.

Enforcing Security Policies

Factory guards enforce company policies related to safety, security, and violence prevention. For example:

• They ensure workers follow safety protocols and wear personal protective equipment.
• They prevent unauthorized removal of company property or proprietary materials.
• They defuse heated exchanges between employees and implement violence prevention policies.

Emergency Response

Guards are often the first responders when emergencies occur. They provide:

• First aid to injured employees until paramedics arrive.
• Assistance in case of fire, chemical spills or gas leaks.
• Support during severe weather events or natural disasters.

Documentation and Reporting

Throughout their shifts, guards must closely observe activities and thoroughly document their patrols, incidents and any unusual events. Accurate record keeping and reporting is essential.

Visitor Management

Guards are responsible for authorizing, screening, directing and escorting visitors on company premises. This includes:

• Checking IDs and authorizing entry.
• Logging all visitor details like time of entry/exit.
• Ensuring visitors wear temporary badges.
• Inspecting visitor bags and parcels.
• Escorting visitors to their destination.

Skills Needed to be a Factory Security Guard

To excel as a factory guard requires a specific set of hard and soft skills. These include:

Observation and Vigilance

Keen powers of observation and unwavering vigilance are crucial. Guards must remain alert and attentive during their entire shift, never letting their guard down.

Communication and De-escalation

Guards should have strong communication skills. They need to issue clear directives, de-escalate conflicts, and interview witnesses after incidents. Being multilingual is an asset.

Judgment and Discretion

Guards must exhibit sound judgment and discretion when responding to ambiguous or high-risk situations. They must make quick calls while following protocols.

Staying Calm Under Pressure

Guards frequently deal with stressful or dangerous scenarios. They must stay calm and focused in these high-pressure moments.

Physical Fitness and Self Defense

Guards need the fitness and mobility to patrol premises on foot for long hours. Basic self defense skills help guards subdue trespassers or deal with aggressive individuals if backup is unavailable.

Working Conditions for Factory Security Guards

Before becoming a factory guard, understand that it involves:

Long and Rotating Shifts

Factory guards work all hours of the day and night, with shift durations up to 12 hours. Factory operations run continuously, so guards must cover morning, evening and overnight shifts.

Working Alone

Guards are often stationed alone monitoring remote posts or patrolling large facilities. Backup may be far away.

Exposure to Dangers

Guards must remain vigilant against threats like armed intruders, fires, chemical spills, machinery hazards, angry employees, severe weather and more.

Conclusion

Factory security guards serve a critical role as the protectors of industrial facilities, safeguarding assets and people. Their responsibilities range far beyond just observing and reporting, requiring skills in emergency response, conflict resolution, vigilance, and quick decision making. Though the job can be challenging, factory security guards find deep purpose in securing premises and protecting workers. With strong job growth projected, opportunities abound for those seeking rewarding careers in industrial security.

FAQs About Working as a Factory Security Guard