What must guards be aware of regarding legal liability?

Guards must understand that they can be held accountable for negligence or misuse of authority. This concept is fundamental to the role of a security guard, as they are responsible for maintaining safety and order. If a guard fails to perform their duties competently, such as not intervening in a potentially harmful situation or improperly utilizing their authority, they may be found negligent. This could lead to legal action against them for any resulting harm, whether to individuals or property.

Awareness of this liability is crucial as it underlines the importance of training and adherence to policies and procedures set by their employers. Security professionals must act within the boundaries of the law and their authority to protect themselves and others from liability claims. Being conscious of this helps guards to act responsibly and make informed decisions while on duty, ensuring they fulfill their role effectively and within legal parameters.