People all over the United States are brushing up on their knowledge of handwashing and social distancing best practices, but what do the professionals on the front lines need to know? Security guards, desk attendants, and other security personnel must remain healthy and safe while doing their jobs, and the COVID-19 pandemic is creating new challenges in terms of personal safety. Here are a few essential practices that security guards and other security personnel are doing during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Being Vigilant, Avoiding Exposure, and Wearing PPE
Unlike most other threats that security guards face, the coronavirus is not a visible enemy. Being vigilant in the face of a pandemic requires a new and more complex set of skills. One of the best ways security personnel are avoiding exposure is by practicing social distancing and maintaining a distance of six feet between individuals whenever possible. They are wearing personal protective equipment such as gloves, masks, and face shields as needed depending on the context. Because PPE is in such short supply, many people recommend saving available PPE for medical staff and professionals working with a significant risk of exposure to COVID-19.
Know the Common Symptoms of COVID-19
Another vital set of knowledge for security personnel during the pandemic is the common set of symptoms of COVID-19. Most people infected with the coronavirus who are symptomatic experience a fever, cough, and shortness of breath. However, it is important to note that not all people who are infected with the coronavirus show symptoms. Another way security guards are avoiding exposure and keeping themselves (and everyone else) safe is by assuming that anyone they come into contact with may have the virus, and taking precautions against potentially infecting others as if they are also infected.
What Security Guards Can Do If They Make Contact With Someone Suspected of Having COVID-19
If encountering someone suspected of having COVID-19, security guards will stay calm and act properly to disinfect their equipment (such as a duty belt or radio), dispose of any used PPE, wash clothes and hands thoroughly, and document the exposure. By following all of these steps, security guards can help minimize their risk and the risk to others as we all navigate this pandemic.
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