FAQ – Security Guards

Security guards help protect people, property, and assets by maintaining a visible security presence and monitoring activity. Their duties may include controlling access to buildings, patrolling property, observing suspicious activity, responding to incidents, and deterring criminal activity.

Security guards are commonly used at commercial properties, construction sites, manufacturing facilities, luxury apartment complexes, and retail locations.

Yes. Security guards in New York must be registered with the New York State Department of State Division of Licensing Services. Before working as a security guard, individuals must complete required training and submit an application for a security guard registration.

Employers are responsible for ensuring that guards maintain valid registration and required training certifications.

New York State requires several training courses for security guards, including:

• 8-Hour Pre-Assignment Training Course (required before applying for a license)
• 16-Hour On-the-Job Training Course (completed within 90 days of employment)
• 8-Hour Annual In-Service Training Course (required each year)

Many of our licensed security guards also have additional specialized training and experience including military service, retired and active law enforcement, and other public safety service making them uniquely qualified.

Armed security guards have additional firearms training and licensing requirements.

Some security guards in New York are armed guards, but this requires additional licensing and firearms permits. Armed guards must complete additional training and comply with New York firearms laws.

Many security guards work as unarmed guards, providing security presence, monitoring, and incident reporting without carrying weapons.

Many organizations rely on professional security services, including:

• Commercial office buildings
  • Manufacturing facilities
  • Construction sites
  • Retail stores and shopping centers
  • Residential buildings and condominiums
  • Resorts, campgrounds, and marinas
  • Hospitals and healthcare facilities
  • Schools and educational institutions

Security guards help reduce theft, monitor activity, and improve overall safety providing peace of mind to clients, customers, and employees.

Security guards are private security professionals hired by businesses or property owners to protect people and property. Police officers are government employees responsible for enforcing laws and responding to crimes.

Security guards typically focus on prevention, monitoring, and reporting, while law enforcement officers have broader legal authority.

The cost of providing your staff and customers with peace of mind is priceless, but hiring security guards is a great example of “you get what you pay for”. More experienced, better trained, better prepared guards cost more, but protecting your employees, clients, and assets is an important investment in the future of your business.

Often contracted by luxury apartments and hotels, high-end car dealers, country clubs, and other upscale businesses our concierge guards are dressed to impress in formal business attire and are not only focused on safety, but also on customer service.

Concierge security guards act as an imposing security presence while managing visitors and guests, coordinating deliveries, personally escorting guests as needed, conducting patrols to ensure doors and windows are secure, and immediately responding to security concerns or emergencies.

Security guards generally do not have the same authority as police officers, but they may detain individuals under certain circumstances until law enforcement arrives. Security guards primarily deter crime, prevent incidents, de-escalate evolving situations, and provide an immediate response while waiting for authorities.

When choosing a security company, consider:

• Proper licensing and compliance with New York regulations
  • Professional training and experience of guards
  • Clear communication and reporting procedures
  • Reliable staffing and supervision
  • Security plans tailored to your property or business

A professional security provider should help you reduce risk, improve safety, and maintain a visible security presence.