The professions of a security guard and private investigator might sound similar, but there are some differences between the two occupations. Anyone wanting to work either one of the two in Canada requires a valid license. It’s important to learn the difference between these before deciding which training suits the career path you want to follow. Let’s discuss the difference between security guards and private investigators.

The Role of Security Guards

The primary responsibilities of security guards entail area observations for security breaches, managing any issues, reporting dangerous situations or suspicious behaviour and more. Security guards perform these duties to protect private property and the public. Security guards work in airports, condos, stores and shopping malls. Some also work as bodyguards.

Proper training is required to ensure security guards can recognize and handle situations until the appropriate authorities arrive to take over. Unlike private investigators who often work undercover, security guards work in the open, visibly showing their presence.

The Role of Private Investigators

Private investigators are typically employed by citizens, companies and attorneys to investigate the whereabouts or actions of people, issues regarding workplace health and safety, environmental incidents and more. There are various reasons why someone would want to hire a private investigator, including investigating fraud, theft, infidelity, disputes over child custody, and finding missing assets or a person.

To investigate, private investigators need to learn several investigative techniques and conduct research. These include internet searches, public databases, background checks, etc. Private investigators also use audio and video surveillance, take photographs and conduct personal observations.

The work that private investigators do still requires them to work within the law. As a private investigator, you must have a good understanding of the laws, be ethical and have great communication and listening skills.

There are many reasons why you may choose a career as a security guard in Canada, and it certainly is an exciting and rewarding job. But you may ask yourself, “what qualifications do I need to be a security guard?” Becoming a licensed security guard requires you to meet specific criteria.

What work does a security guard do?

Depending on the industry you are hired in, your role as a security guard may vary. Tasks include:

• Securing premises by patrolling and monitoring. Often you may need to monitor the premises via closed-circuit television (CCTV).
• Guarding cash or valuables in transit in a security vehicle, moving between locations.
• Securing airports, hospitals, and other public and private places by guarding boundaries, searching aircraft, monitoring passengers and luggage.
• Supervising entrances of large organizations.
• Private bodyguards, protecting one or a group of people.

What do you need to get a security guard license?

Throughout Canada, training is one of the most important components for getting a security guard license. Once you complete the required hours of training, you write a test which you must pass. On receiving your results, you can apply for a security license. The requirements are almost the same for each province but check before taking the steps to obtain your license.

1. Requirements for becoming a security guard

You don’t need any specific academic qualifications to become a security guard, but you do need a good standard of education. Your role as a security guard will require that you are more than just being fit since you need to meet certain responsibilities that require basic math, reading, and writing skills. Therefore, a high school diploma is a basic requirement if you are seeking an entry-level security job.

To qualify, you need to be over the age of 18 and must pass criminal record and identity checks. You must also be able to work legally in Canada.

2. Training requirements

If you are an applicant for a security and bodyguard license, you must complete a proper training course for security guards. This training is available in an online format through Coast2Coast, several colleges, and private law enforcement schools.

According to the Ministry of Community Safety and Correctional Services, a 40-hour Security Guard Preparation Course is mandatory. This can also be taken online. The course must contain 12 modules, including an introduction to the security company world, the code of conduct, and other basic procedures. The course also includes report writing, health and safety, emergency response, Canadian legal system, legal authorities, effective communications, sensitivity training, use of force theory, and first aid certification.

In addition to your Security training course, you must also be certified in Emergency First Aid & CPR/AED Level C. Enroll in a Security License training with Coast2Coast and receive a $10 discount on your First Aid training!

3. Applying for and writing the test

Once you complete your required training hours, you will receive a Training Completion Number (TCN) which you will use to book and write the Ministry approved Security License test. The key to passing the exam is to go there prepared, so use all the resources available to you to study for the test. Every province has a website where you can see what the passing grade requirements are for each one. At the exam, you must provide valid identification, and the test is typically 75 minutes long.

4. When can you start working as a security guard?

You will be notified immediately after you pass the exam, and a copy of your security guard license is mailed to you. We recommend that you ask for a digital copy of the license, allowing you to work immediately. The mailed copy usually takes about eight weeks to arrive.

5. Career prospects

As a security guard, you have plenty of opportunities to progress in your career by obtaining credentials that will reinforce your knowledge in various areas. Most certifications require a certain number of work hours before writing the test to qualify. Additionally, there are also requirements for renewing a license every two years, always on your birthday.

Remember: It is important to always carry your license with you when on duty.