5 Best Ways to Tell a Trained Security Guard from an Untrained Security Guard at Work

Securing workplaces isn’t just about hiring someone in a uniform—it’s about trusting trained, competent professionals who can truly protect people and property. The risks of leaving security to untrained guards range from theft and violence to legal and financial trouble for businesses. But not all security guards are created equal. Some are highly trained professionals, while others may be new or undertrained. Here’s how anyone can use clear, everyday observations to spot a trained guard from an untrained one.

Professional behaviour and appearance

The body language of a trained security guard is often one of the first signs that we notice when we approach them. These professionals are taught to always be alert and aware of their surroundings. They stand up straight, maintaining a posture that indicates they are ready to respond to any situation. On the other hand, an untrained security guard may appear distracted, slouched, or lack confidence.

Trained guards are clearly attentive. They are not scrolling through their phones or distracted by anything else. Rather, they create the impression that they are always aware of what is happening around them.

Emergency Management and Responsibilities

A major difference is how security guards handle emergencies, such as fires or medical emergencies. A trained guard knows how to handle an emergency—who to call, how to evacuate people to safety, and how to quickly assess the situation.

Trained: Remains calm, responds quickly, follows rules.

Untrained: Panics, delays responding, or fails to take any emergency action.

Well-trained guards are proactive; untrained guards become reactive.

Knowledge of Security Protocols

Trained security guards are aware of standard operating procedures for different situations. They know exactly what to do in an emergency, from calling for backup to securing the area. Whether it’s a fire, evacuation, or medical emergency, trained security personnel have the knowledge to act quickly and appropriately.

Conversely, untrained security guards may become hesitant or panic in high-pressure situations. Their lack of knowledge can lead to delayed emergency response. Being untrained can lead to inability to perform proper job duties.

Using the right technology

In today’s digital world, security guards often rely on cutting-edge technology to do their jobs more accurately and effectively. Trained security personnel are familiar with security systems such as surveillance cameras, alarm systems, and access control software. They know how to use and monitor these systems and respond accordingly.

An untrained security guard may have difficulty using some of the technology that is supposed to assist them in their work role.

Problem Solving and Decision Making

Trained guards think quickly and make smart decisions—whether it’s separating people in a fight, stopping suspicious activity, or directing people in an emergency. They use both training and common sense.

Untrained guards may hesitate, make the wrong decision, or wait for someone else to solve a problem. Their delay can make the situation worse.

Every second counts when it comes to security. Good decisions can save lives and prevent major damage. And bad decisions can backfire.

Conclusion

In today’s world, where security challenges are ever-increasing, a trained security guard is not a luxury but a necessity. Trained security guards are the guardians of safety who bring discipline, awareness and integrity to their daily work. Untrained guards may wear the same uniform, but whether today or tomorrow, the difference is clear – and this difference can cost businesses and people dearly.

The next time you see a security guard at work, take a closer look. Are they alert, disciplined and professional? Or are they distracted, and careless? These signs will tell you whether they are trained or untrained.

So, whether you are thinking of hiring security guards for your workplace or residence or just want to be aware, use these 5 things as your checklist. Because when it comes to security, the difference between trained and untrained can be the difference between safety and disaster.

Purgo Services is well-trained and capable of providing the best security guard services. Contact Purgo Services for more information.