Watchman
Protective Services, inc.

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Nature of the Work

Guards, also called security officers, patrol and inspect property to protect against fire, theft, vandalism, and illegal entry. Their duties vary with the size, type, and location of their employer. Guards work in office buildings, banks, hospitals, and department stores. Guards protect records, merchandise, money, and equipment.

In department stores, guards frequently work with undercover detectives to watch for theft by customers or store employees.

Guards who work in public buildings, such as museums or art galleries, protect paintings and exhibits. They also answer routine questions from visitors and sometimes guide tours.

In government buildings, data processing centers, and military bases where valuable property or information-such as information on new products, computer codes, or defense secrets-must be protected, guards check the credentials of persons and vehicles entering and leaving the premises. University, park, or recreation guards perform similar duties and also may issue parking permits and direct traffic.

Some guards work as "bouncers" and patrol places of entertainment such as nightclubs to preserve order among customers and to protect property.

Patrolling usually is done on foot, but if the property is large, guards may make their rounds by car or motor scooter. As more businesses purchase advanced electronic security systems to protect their property, more guards are being assigned to stations where they monitor perimeter security, environmental functions, communications, and other systems.

Guards usually are uniformed and may carry a nightstick and gun, although the bearing of guns is decreasing. They also may carry a flashlight, whistle, two-way radio, and a watch clock-a device that indicates the time at which they reach various checkpoints.

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