Security Guard Study Guide - Ontario.ca
Security GuardTest Preparation GuideMinistry of Community Safetyand Correctional Services
Table Of ContentsPage 3: IntroductionPage 5: Section 1 - Introduction to the Security IndustryPage 6: Section 2 - The Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 (PSISA)and Ministry Code of ConductPage 10: Section 3 - Basic Security ProceduresPage 16: Section 4 - Report WritingPage 19: Section 5 - Health and SafetyPage 21: Section 6 - Emergency Response PreparationPage 24: Section 7- Canadian Legal SystemPage 27: Section 8 - Legal AuthoritiesPage 30: Section 9 - Effective CommunicationsPage 32: Section 10 - Sensitivity TrainingPage 34: Section 11- Use of Force TheoryPage 36: Section 12 - Emergency Level First Aid CertificationPage 38: Appendix A - Workplace Hazardous Materials Information SystemPage 40: Appendix B - Association of Public Safety Communication (APCO) "10" CodesPage 42: Test Preparation Tips2
IntroductionThis test preparation guide is designed to assist security guards in preparing for theministry’s mandatory test. The guide will outline key areas that security guards shouldbe familiar with to ensure they perform their duties in accordance with the PrivateSecurity and Investigative Services Act, 2005 (PSISA) and its regulations.The subjects covered align with the ministry’s Training Syllabus for Security Guards.Although the guide is meant to assist candidates in preparing for and writing the test, itdoes not constitute a training manual, and is not a substitute for an in-person trainingcourse.At the end of each section of this test preparation guide, you will find links to externalresources that may be of further assistance to you. Many of these will bring you tovarious laws and regulations; it is recommended that you have an overall understandingof these and how they relate to key topics covered in the test.Other links will bring you to existing training materials available to the public. Whilethese materials may contain valuable information, please keep in mind that they werenot specifically designed for Ontario’s security guard and private investigator trainingand testing program.About the TestThe ministry’s tests were developed by subject matter experts (SMEs) in the privatesecurity and investigative services industry who worked with the ministry’s testdevelopment consultant, CASTLE Worldwide Inc. The SMEs developed the testquestions using a protocol of writing and review that conforms to the best practices ofpsychological and test development standards. They comprehensively reviewed andvalidated each question for appropriateness of the answers and correct answer keys. Apanel of SMEs also reviewed and tested the questions and participated in setting thecut scores (pass marks) for the tests.The security guard test is in a written, 60 question, multiple choice format. Testappointments are 2 hours in duration, 75 minutes of which is the allotted test completiontime.The licence test fee is 60 plus 13% HST for a total of 67.80.3
Test results will be made available within five business days of completion of the test.The cut score for the security guard test is 62%.All tests must be booked in advance either online, or through a call centre agent.Eligibility RuleYou may only register and complete an examination if you hold a currently validindividual Ontario security guard licence, or if you have completed mandatory trainingthat meets the ministry’s requirements.Candidates who are not licensed by Private Security and Investigative Services Branchmust complete ministry prescribed basic training before they become eligible to registerfor and complete an examination.If you are already licensed, you may only take the test for which you are licensed, or forwhich you have taken a ministry approved training course. It is important to take thetest well in advance of your licence expiry to ensure there is adequate time to processthe reissued licence.Contact UsFor information on the ministry’s Training and Testing Regulation, on the topics coveredin the training syllabi and the tests, you must contact the Private Security andInvestigative Services Branch:Phone: 416-212-1650 or toll-free at 1-866-767-7454E-mail: PSIS.PrivateSecurity@ontario.caWebsite: www.ontario.ca/private-securityTo book a test, and for any information regarding test scheduling and payment, youmust contact the ministry’s test delivery agent, Serco DES Inc.:Phone: 1-866-248-2555E-mail: sgt@serco-des.caWebsite: www.ontariosecuritytesting.com4
Section 1 - Introduction To The Security IndustryThe Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 (PSISA) regulates the privatesecurity industry. The PSISA was proclaimed into force on August 23, 2007 to helpprofessionalize the security industry, increase public safety and ensure practitionersreceive proper training and are qualified to provide protective services. The PSISA andits regulations govern the way the private security industry operates in Ontario.The Training and Testing Regulation made under the PSISA came into force on April15, 2010. All security guards must fulfill the mandatory requirements of the Training andTesting Regulation in order to be eligible to apply for a licence.Who needs a security guard licence?Individuals are required to have a security guard licence if they perform work, forremuneration, that consists primarily of protecting persons or property. This includes butis not limited to bodyguards, bouncers and loss prevention personnel, and moregenerally speaking, individuals who patrol premises.References/ResourcesPrivate Security and Investigative Services Branch website:www.ontario.ca/private-securityTraining Syllabus for Security Guards (applicable to all sections of the TestPreparation 71155.pdf5
Section 2 - The Private Security & Investigative Services Act, 2005(PSISA) and Ministry Code Of ConductSection OverviewThe PSISA regulates the security industry. As such, security guards must be familiarwith the PSISA to ensure they follow the regulations and prohibitions, including theCode of Conduct.Here are some of the key points that affect individual licensees directly.Licensing Requirements (subsection 10(1) of the PSISA)In order to be eligible for a security guard licence, all individuals must: Have completed the required training and/or testing.Be at least 18 years old.Possess a clean criminal record, according to the Clean Criminal RecordRegulation (note: not all criminal charges or convictions will prevent a personfrom obtaining a security guard licence. See below for more information on theClean Criminal Record Regulation).Be legally entitled to work in Canada.People who apply for a security guard licence will be required to show proof that theymeet all of these requirements. If they are not eligible for a security guard licence, theirapplication will not be processed. For more information about the identificationrequirements consult the ministry website.General Rules and Standards of PracticeThese are some of the rules that security guards must be mindful of during their day-today activities. They can be found between sections 35 and 40 of the PSISA. Security guards must always carry their licence with them when they are working(including “plain-clothes” security guards, e.g. loss prevention personnel orbodyguards). They must also identify themselves as security guards, and showtheir licence, if a member of the public asks them to do so. With the exception of bodyguards and loss prevention personnel, security guardsmust wear a uniform while working. See below for further information on theUniforms Regulation.6
Security guards are prohibited from carrying any symbol of authority, other thantheir licence and uniform (for example, a metal badge is prohibited). Security guards are prohibited from holding themselves out as police officers, orperforming police-related duties. For this reason, they are also prohibited fromusing the following words when referring to their work as security guards:o Detective or Private Detectiveo Law Enforcemento Policeo OfficerFor example, security guards are prohibited from referring to themselves as“security officers”.RegulationsIn addition to the PSISA, there are several regulations which govern security guards.Many of these regulations apply only to employers. However, individual licenseesshould be familiar with the regulations, particularly those that affect them directly:Code of ConductThis regulation defines what kind of behavior is appropriate or inappropriate for securityguards to display while they are working. Security guards will find that respecting theCode of Conduct is, in most cases, a matter of common sense – security guards areexpected to treat members of the public in a respectful and professional manner. Forinstance, security guards must: Act with honesty and integrity Comply with all federal, provincial and municipal laws Treat all persons equally (without discrimination) Avoid using profanity or abusive language Avoid using excessive force Not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while on duty.UniformsWith the exception of bodyguards and loss prevention personnel, all security guardsmust wear a uniform that complies with the Uniforms Regulation. If a guard works for alicensed security agency, his or her employer is responsible for ensuring that theuniform meets all the requirements. Please note, security guards must also be familiar7
with the regulation, as it is their responsibility to wear the proper uniform on a dailybasis. Some key points to look out for: The term “SECURITY” or “SECURITY GUARD” must be displayed on theuniform in specific places and specific dimensions. The uniform must include an identification tag, which shows the licensee’s name,or licence number or both. A security guard uniform should not bear any traits that resemble a policeuniform, such as rank chevrons, a police-style forage cap, or stripes down theside of the trousers.Eligibility to Hold a Licence – Clean Criminal RecordThis regulation lists a series of criminal offences which are prescribed under the PSISA.Persons who have been convicted of any of these offences and have not received apardon are not eligible for a security guard licence, and any application they submitcannot be processed.Persons who have been convicted of or charged with an offence that does not appear inthis regulation may be eligible for a licence. The Private Security and InvestigativeServices Branch (PSISB) will need to review their file to determine if any restrictionsshould apply. The applicant may be given an opportunity to be heard in order todiscuss their case.Public ComplaintsMembers of the public may file a public complaint against any licensed individual orlicensed company if they feel that a violation of the PSISA or its regulations has beencommitted.Public complaints can lead to facilitation. As well, the PSISB may investigate the matterand as a result, charges may be laid against the licensee, a warning may be issued, orthe licence may be revoked.8
Penalties for Contravening the ActIndividuals found guilty of offences under the PSISA could face a fine of up to 25,000,imprisonment for up to one year or both. As such, it is crucial that security guardscomply with all aspects of the PSISA and its regulations to avoid the possibility of beingnamed in a complaint or facing charges.References/ResourcesThe PSISA and its regulations are available through the PSISB website andRegulations/psisa act regs.html9
Section 3 - Basic Security ProceduresSection OverviewSecurity guards need to respond to changes in their environment, which includesactions such as traffic movement, ensuring the safety of persons between and withinlocations, monitoring and managing the access and departure of persons and vehiclesand observing and monitoring people. Security guards need to be aware of the correctway to deal with these situations. They should have the knowledge and skills requiredto assess the security of physical environments, to apply basic aspects of security intheir roles and to assess the impact of drug use in the context of safety for oneself andothers. This section represents generally accepted practices throughout the securityguard industry.Important Note:.In this section a number of activities are discussed which are generally accepted asgood practices for someone working as a security guard. Practices may vary fromone security company to the next so in addition to understanding the requirements ofthe legislation and regulations it is important the security guard is also familiar withthe policies of their employer and not to rely solely on subjects covered in this guideor the Ministry Syllabus.Duties of a security guardThe duties and responsibilities of a guard vary from site to site. Guards must be wellattuned to changes and developments within the industry and the expectations andobligations that are owed to the client, the public, and/or their employer.It is the role of a security guard to protect people, property and information.This may involve but is not limited to: Ensuring premises and property are protected in an appropriate and effectivefashion against a variety of natural and man-made threats.10
Preventing, detecting and reacting appropriately to the commission of criminaland quasi-criminal actions on or against the property of the client.Interacting with law enforcement officials and the justice system, wherenecessary, such as apprehending and detaining someone who has committed acriminal offence. Security may be able to supplement the efforts of police bysecuring crime scenes until the police can arrive. Security personnel may also bea valuable source of information to the police.Providing leadership and direction in emergencies and assisting emergencypersonnel in times of crisis, e.g. directing fire fighters to the easiest/best way toget to the scene of the fire.Controlling access to a site, including monitoring entrance & gate passage,escorting people & valuables, inspecting bags.Controlling or restoring order to a crowd.Preventing work accidents by being aware of potential dangers, reporting safetyhazards and following directions to minimize the risk posed to others.While there can be no doubt that some situations will involve physical intervention, themajority of tasks assigned require a security guard to observe, deter, record andreport only.Access ControlAccess control policies vary from company to company.Security guards may be required to observe and record who enters and exits a site. Acompleted log sheet should record the individual’s name and the time of entrance to,and exit from the site. The information obtained will permit guards to locate visitors,either while on the property in the event of an emergency, or at a later time after theyhave left.A visitor’s pass also contains information which helps the guards to determine whethera visitor has to be escorted, the name of the person who has authorized the visit, thestatus of the visitor and their business while on the site.Material AccessOne of the most sensitive tasks that a security guard will have to deal with is the issueof the removal of materials from a work site. People routinely leave a site with things likecomputers, computer disks, and briefcases full of materials.11
The client (for example, a warehouse owner) must determine what steps are necessaryto protect his/her property. Security should follow these instructions carefully. The guardshould comply with the rules of access and protocols which should be provided by thesecurity guard’s supervisor when introducing employees to a new site.Crowd ControlOn private property, a security guard may have a role in maintaining crowd control andif it escalates, there may be a necessity to call the police. When crowd control isnecessary, efforts to restore the peace or to control the crowd should be made withseveral things in mind:(i) the risk to life and/or property whether or not action is taken.(ii) the personal risk to the security guard.(iii) instructions of the guard’s supervisor or the client.(iv) risks posed by leaving the post.(v) availability of support or backup.(vi) urgency.(vii) development of tactics or plans for dealing with the situation.After considering these factors and if the crowd threatens to get out of control thesecurity guard may wish to contact the police.Traffic Control and ParkingA security guard may be called upon to control traffic on private property at gatedentrances to buildings or in parking lots, to ensure traffic safety and to assist in themovement of vehicles. It is important for the guard to use conventional signals andmovements in order to be understood and seen by the drivers. Guards should bedressed comfortably according to weather conditions. Proper reflective vests or cuffsmust be worn to ensure visibility. This control should be done in a courteous andpersuasive manner, trying to make people understand the reasons for the control.PatrollingThe main purpose of a patrol is to maintain the security of the premises under thesecurity guard’s authority. Preparation for a patrol should always begin with anunderstanding regarding the purpose of the patrol. For example, is the security guard: Expected to keep intruders away? Assist members of the public who appear confused or in need of assistance? Check boilers and other equipment, to make sure they are still functioningsafely?12
The purpose of a patrol can change from time to time, even within a single shift. Thefirst time that a patrol is made, security may focus on breaches of the property by anintruder; the second time, to make sure that the safety equipment on machinery inthe area is functioning properly; the third time, to check again for intruders andbreaches of the work site, and so on.A thorough knowledge of the geography of the area to be patrolled is essential. Thesecurity guard should determine in advance where telephones, water shut-off valves,electrical and alarm panels and light switches are located, and where emergencylighting is provided. The guard should also know where emergency equipment, such asback-up generators, first aid kits, fire alarms, hydrants, and extinguishers, is located.The guard should know the best routes to follow in an emergency, selecting thesimplest, most direct route with the least number of safety hazards.The guard should make a list of activities that need to be done while on a specific patroland devise the route in advance, including a map of the major check points,passageways, rooms, stairwells, doors and windows, and so on. Alternate routes shouldbe planned in case specific areas are made inaccessible due to an emergency such asa fire, explosion, or chemical leak. The timing and route of the patrol should be varied toensure that it does not become too routine or too predictable. The guard should makesure he or she possesses the proper equipment, including appropriate clothing.Foot PatrolFoot patrol is the most common method of patrol in the security industry. It is normallyutilized where it is not possible to provide the same protective coverage through othermethods such as motorized patrol or electronic surveillance. Virtually all of the sensesof the security guard (sight, hearing, smell, and touch) may conceivably be used duringfoot patrol.Advantages Highly visible Knowledge of patterns andcharacteristics of an area may help toanticipate an incident before it becomesmore difficult to control All senses may be used Ability to access smaller spaces such asstairwellsDisadvantages Restricted mobility and area of coverage Length of time to patrol Inclement weather prevents or curtailssome activities Difficulty in carrying equipment such asreports, forms, and first-aid kits C
not specifically designed for Ontario’s security guard and private investigator training and testing program. About the Test The ministry’s tests were developed by subject matter experts (SMEs) in the private security and investigative services industry who worked with the ministry’s test development consultant, CASTLE Worldwide Inc.
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