What is a security guard?

A security guard is typically an entry-level position. Having a security guard on site can help prevent theft, vandalism, violence and other illegal actions. Their primary role is to be a visible deterrent and perform routine, preventative duties.

A security guard is often focused on a specific location or post. This could be patrolling a designated area, a parking lot guard station or a security desk at the entrance to a business or office complex. They may also watch surveillance cameras, manage access to a building and report any unusual activity.

Where the security guard works might impact the behaviour they try to prevent. For example, if you own a retail store, your security guard might work to prevent shoplifting. They might also control access to certain areas, only allowing authorized individuals inside.

If someone engages in an unwanted activity, the security guard might handle the situation with limited security tactics, such as reporting the activity to law enforcement or a senior security staff member. The actions a security guard can take are often determined by provincial and local regulations and the organization’s policies.

What is a security officer?

A security officer is often regarded as a higher-level position with greater responsibility and authority. They may hold a supervisory or managerial role, overseeing the work of other security guards. Their duties usually go beyond basic patrol and monitoring. For example, a security officer might develop security strategies, respond to more serious incidents, conduct investigations and coordinate with law enforcement.

A security officer usually has more advanced training and knowledge of various strategies to handle different security issues. This may include crowd control and active shooter response skills. Security officers may work closely with police if local authorities need to be involved.

Some provinces, like Ontario and Alberta, restrict the use of the term security officer.

Understanding provincial regulations and terminology

Security officer and security guard regulations in Canada are set provincially. They may include different requirements for licensing, mandatory training, background checks, adherence to codes of conduct and specific uniform standards.

For example, under Ontario’s Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 (PSISA), security professionals are specifically required to identify themselves as “security guards” to distinguish themselves from law enforcement officers with broader legal powers.

Alberta’s Security Services and Investigators Act (SSIA) is similar to Ontario’s. Licensing requires the term “Security Guard” to be displayed on uniforms and other measures to ensure clear distinctions between private security personnel and police.

Some provinces use the term security officer. In Quebec, the Bureau de la sécurité privée (BSP) issues licenses for private detectives and security officers who have completed an approved, mandatory training program.

The Justice Institute of British Columbia (JIBC) refers to the profession as a security officer and provides training for it. Job postings and descriptions in the province commonly refer to the position as “private security officer.”

What are some similarities between security guards and security officers?

Although security officers and security guards have different levels of responsibility and authority, they share several fundamental similarities. They protect people and property by preventing harm, theft and unauthorized access. Security personnel can also help safeguard reputational risk by keeping the business safe and secure.

Both positions often involve patrolling a specific area or monitoring security systems like surveillance cameras and alarms to ensure safety and security.

Security personnel may work together if a company employs both roles and interacts frequently with the public during their duties. A key responsibility for both is to maintain a visible presence. The sight of a uniformed security professional is often enough to deter potential criminal activity.

Security guards and security officers are typically required to undergo basic training. This can include basic security principles, emergency response procedures like first aid and CPR and legal guidelines. Regardless of their title, a central duty for both is to observe their surroundings for suspicious activity or security breaches and report them to a higher authority or law enforcement.

What is the difference between a security officer and a security guard?

Companies often set their requirements for security roles and may define them differently depending on provincial or territorial regulations. While the two roles might sound the same, there are differences between the security officer and security guard roles, including the level of security training, qualifications and experience.

Security guards typically require basic security training, while security officers have more extensive training. Many provinces either require or strongly recommend an introductory security training course for anyone interested in becoming a security guard. Completing this training and passing a provincial exam are necessary to obtain a security guard licence.

Security guard training courses cover core topics like the Canadian legal system, basic security procedures, report writing, emergency response and conflict resolution. It’s usually a broad security class with specialized training for various scenarios.

For example, Ontario requires all new security guards to complete an introductory training course of at least 40 hours. This must include Emergency First Aid and CPR certification. After completing the course, a training completion number is issued, which is needed to register for the provincial licensing exam.

Security officers must hold a WSIB-approved Emergency First Aid and CPR certificate and usually complete additional advanced training. To work as a security officer, they must also pass a provincial licensing exam.

This training covers law enforcement techniques, firearms, risk assessment, active shooter response, safety protocols and relevant security laws. Some candidates may also receive security training in the military.

Security officers frequently work in higher-risk settings such as airports or government facilities, requiring deeper expertise. These professionals are often trained in emergency response and management, effective communication and report writing, ethics and professionalism.

Level of authority for security officer vs security guard

Security officers generally hold more authority than security guards. They frequently give orders to security guards and may assume control of a situation when an incident arises. A security guard, in contrast, is primarily tasked with carrying out duties with a more limited scope of authority.

The legal scope of authority for each role can vary significantly depending on location, position type and provincial regulations.

The vast majority of security professionals in Canada are unarmed. The ability to carry a firearm is not a standard part of a security officer’s job and is only permitted under specific, strict circumstances.

Specialized companies may hire armed guards for high-risk tasks, such as protecting valuable goods during transit. For example, armoured car services or securing high-value assets like cash, negotiable instruments or precious metals. Security companies that employ armed guards must be licensed and notify the provincial ministry about their armed employees.

How to choose between a security officer and a security guard

Choosing between a security officer and a security guard often depends on your business’s specific security needs, risk level and budget. Employers who understand how to hire security personnel often consider the following factors:

• Types of security needed: Some organizations want to control access to certain areas, while others need to prevent serious crimes and threats. For the latter, a security officer may be more suitable.
• Location risks: The location of your business can influence your risk level. For areas with lower risk, consider hiring a security guard.
• Industry risks: Certain industries face higher security threats. For example, if you handle expensive equipment, tools or products, your business might become a target for theft. In such cases, having a security officer may be necessary to safeguard your business.
• Team assessment: If you already have security personnel on staff, evaluate their roles and strengths. Find ways to supplement the existing team and address security gaps. If your new hire will join an experienced team of security officers, you might consider hiring a security guard.
• Salary considerations: Salaries for security guards and security officers in Canada are similar, and the title doesn’t always determine the salary. Some regions and companies use “officer” for roles that are essentially guards, and the pay will reflect this. According to Indeed, the average salary for a security officer is $20.80 per hour. The average salary for a security supervisor is $22.30 per hour.

When to hire a security guard

Situations where you may consider hiring a security guard include:

• You already have a security officer and require a security guard to handle the front-line duties.
• Your current security guard team could use additional staff.
• Your business faces minimal risks and threats.
• You want to secure a specific part of your company.
• You have effective security procedures in place and require someone to implement them.

When to hire a security officer

Hiring a security officer may be a good option in these scenarios:

• Provincial regulations allow security officers.
• Your industry faces a significant risk of threats.
• You want to develop or enhance security procedures and seek an expert.
• You have security guards, but require a manager to oversee them.
• You prefer a security team member with more training or specialized experience.

When making your decision, remember that the main difference often lies in the level of responsibility and expertise required, which can be reflected in your job description. A security guard is a good choice for businesses that need a visible presence and basic security functions like access control and monitoring.

For companies facing higher risks or those that need a professional to develop and manage a comprehensive security strategy, hiring a security officer may be the better investment. By carefully assessing your unique security needs and understanding the legal and operational differences between the roles, you can make a well-informed decision that safeguards your business, employees and assets.