Property owners who are concerned with overall safety and with the protection of their assets often choose to hire armed security guards. Although surveillance cameras and remote monitoring can provide important evidence after the event of a break-in, having a visible presence of armed officers on site can deter criminal activity from occurring.
Security officers will also ensure that only authorized individuals are able to access the site. In addition, they respond quickly to emergencies with most having been trained in first aid. Armed officers are also prepared to prevent and resolve conflicts that occur on the site, whether it involves staff, guests or unauthorized visitors.
What Is The Average Pay For A Security Officer?
The average rate of pay for armed security guards ranges from $10 to $100 per hour, according to CostHelper. The experience level of the officer and the type of work involved in the particular security position will determine the specific price. Armed security guards and those with more advanced skills generally cost more to hire than unarmed officers.
An evaluation of the site will determine the assets to be protected and other security measures to be used. This may include hardware such as cameras and analytics software; the evaluation will also determine the number of security officers recommended to provide maximum protection.
Outlined below are some important factors to consider when calculating the cost of a security officer.
The Conditions Of The Site
When researching the cost of armed security guards in a particular area, it is important to keep in mind that these figures are averages. The conditions of the post, such as the location of the facility, the skills and experience needed as well as the time of day services will be required, must be taken into consideration to create a more accurate estimate.
The location of the site is one of the most important factors in determining the cost of necessary security. On-site security tends to be more expensive in urban areas and places with high rates of theft and violent crime, than in rural areas. Moreover, the cost of services from security officers will rise as local crime rates increase, which means areas, where surrounding businesses have experienced an increase of recent break-ins, may note a price hike.
Another influencing factor on the price of armed security guards is relative to the skills and experience requirement. On the lower end of the price range are unarmed security officers who may have fewer years of experience, while highly trained armed security guardsand those with law enforcement or military backgrounds may command higher prices.
The time of day the security officers will be working also impacts their cost. After-hours posts tend to cost more than daytime shifts because most thefts and break-ins occur at night when most locations are not lighted or attended. Those seeking 24-hour surveillance can expect to pay two to three times as much as they would for a single shift, but this affords a significantly greater degree of protection.
Although higher stakes tend to equate to higher rates, armed security guards can save businesses significant amounts of money by protecting their assets, controlling access to the site and preventing problems.
Benefits And Vetting
Another factor to consider is the cost of hiring, as opposed to contracting, new security officers. This will usually involve an interview and background check. For armed officers, additional vetting processes may be needed, such as psychiatric evaluations and more in-depth background checks. Any time an additional officer is hired or an officer needs to be replaced, it may be necessary to pay for these processes once again.
Hiring armed security guards as permanent staff may require a full benefits package to include paid time off, during which time, other security staff will be necessary. Contracting security services through an experienced and established security company ensures those concerns are alleviated.
Legal Concerns
In addition to the financial costs of hiring security officers, there may be legal liabilities to be considered. For example, should an officer, hired directly by a business, assault a person who they mistakenly believe to be an intruder, the business owner could be held liable in some jurisdictions. Legal guidance and proper insurance will be necessary in these situations.
Armed Security Companies Make It Easier
For some facilities, especially construction sites, the funds spent on armed security officers can provide an incredible return on investment. Hiring the services of security officers through a reputable security company eliminates the additional legal and financial responsibilities as well as ensuring all officers are up to date on training requirements.
Reach Out To The Armed Security Guards At APG
American Protection Group offers security solutions that are tailored to the specific requirements of each client. Our security experts can assess your site and recommend a thorough and effective security strategy that will allow you to keep your facility safer while reducing your operating costs. Reach out today for more information.