Unarmed vs. Armed Security Guards: What’s the Difference?

Understanding Unarmed Security Versus Armed Security Guard

The most obvious difference between unarmed and armed security personnel is that unarmed security guards do not carry guns. These professionals may carry non-lethal tools like batons or pepper spray for protection. Some unarmed guards occasionally carry tasers in specific circumstances. You typically find contract security services in areas where criminal threat levels remain relatively low.

Common locations for unarmed security include:

• Commercial office buildings
• Apartment complexes
• Hotel properties
• Retail stores
• Construction job sites
• Educational facilities
• and many other similar venues.

Armed security personnel carry firearms and complete extensive training programs to handle demanding situations effectively. These guards work at locations where crime risks are significantly higher than average. According to the Security Industry Association, proper training standards ensure armed guards can respond appropriately to serious threats.

Typical locations for armed security include:

• Financial institutions
• Medical facilities
• Airport terminals
• Government buildings
• Museums
• Courthouse facilities
• and various other high-risk environments

What Does Unarmed Security Mean?

Without firearms, an unarmed security professional handles protecting your property, staff and valuable assets through careful observation and presence. These guards avoid high-impact weapons but may carry batons or pepper spray for unavoidable emergency situations.

Unarmed security guard services work best in environments where crime rates stay lower or less serious. Many business owners find these professionals perfectly suited for their protection needs. The International Foundation for Protection Officers provides comprehensive training standards for unarmed security personnel.

Their professional appearance creates an authoritative presence that effectively prevents incidents like theft or property damage from occurring. These guards help employees feel secure while maintaining appropriate oversight of workplace activities.

Firearms don’t always improve security situations and can sometimes escalate conflicts beyond necessary levels. Unarmed security personnel excel at staying calm during stressful moments while maintaining complete situational control. Most common business types rely on these security professionals to protect their facilities effectively.

What Does Armed Security Mean?

Armed security guards are specialized professionals who complete extensive training to safely handle firearms. These guards provide more direct protection and work in higher-risk environments where serious threats may occur. When situations involving force arise, these trained professionals know how to respond appropriately.

Businesses with high-value assets or those handling large amounts of money require enhanced protection levels. Banks, jewelry stores, and watch retailers need stronger security than typical commercial establishments. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security provides guidelines for businesses operating in high-risk environments.

Criminal activity often targets locations with valuable assets when vulnerability appears present. These high-risk environments demand armed security presence to maintain adequate protection.

You can absolutely hire armed security services if your business requires this level of protection. Security presence alone deters criminal activity and potential threats effectively. Armed security personnel provide the strongest deterrent because criminals rarely risk confronting someone carrying a firearm. Most criminals reconsider their actions when facing situations that could potentially threaten their own safety.

What Types Of Threats Does Your Business Face?

If your business falls into higher-risk categories or faces greater criminal targeting than average, you should seriously consider armed security personnel. The National Safety Council provides workplace safety statistics that help businesses assess their risk levels.

Armed Security Guards

Consider hiring armed guards if your business:

• Has valuable assets like expensive jewelry or artwork collections
• Handles significant amounts of cash daily
• Hosts large events where crowds sometimes become unruly or violent
• Operates in neighborhoods with elevated crime statistics
• Accommodates high volumes of people like hotels, apartment buildings, or senior living facilities.

Employees working in buildings with professional security protection perform better knowing their safety isn’t constantly threatened. Staff members feel confident that trained professionals will handle any escalating problems effectively. Sugar Land security officers provide this enhanced protection for businesses in high-risk areas.

Unarmed Security Guards

If your business faces relatively low risk but you still want visible security presence, choose unarmed guards. Some businesses worry about vandalism or minor threats at their locations but remain uncertain about security options. In these situations, security consultants strongly recommend unarmed guards to address these specific concerns effectively.

Combining unarmed security with video surveillance systems and effective access control measures creates a powerful security combination. These three elements working together maintain a strong security presence while keeping criminal activity virtually nonexistent. Pearland security guards often implement these integrated security approaches for maximum effectiveness.

Cost Differences Between Armed And Unarmed Security

Both types of security guards perform different functions, which directly impacts the pricing for each service. Armed guards cost more to hire due to their specialized training requirements and job responsibilities. ASIS International provides industry standards that help establish fair pricing for security services.

Armed security personnel accept higher life risks as part of their daily duties and receive additional compensation for this enhanced protection. Liability insurance requirements also contribute significantly to the higher costs associated with armed security services. OSHA guidelines require specific safety protocols for armed security positions.

Unarmed guards don’t face daily life-threatening situations, so their primary duties include monitoring surveillance equipment, patrolling building interiors and exterior areas, helping visitors and tenants at reception desks, managing access control for restricted building areas, and handling other similar security tasks.

This option provides the most cost-effective solution if your business needs guards to perform these standard security functions at your facility. Conroe security officers offer these comprehensive services at competitive rates.

Which Option Will You Choose?

After considering the guidance provided above, you’ll know exactly which type of security guard your business requires. If you remain uncertain about your decision, professional help is available. Contact security experts today and get the assistance you need to make the right choice.

The International Facility Management Association provides resources for facility managers making security decisions, while the Texas Department of Public Safety offers guidelines for businesses seeking enhanced security protocols. Pearland security companies and Conroe security companies work with local businesses to create integrated security solutions.

Professional security assessments help determine optimal protection levels for your specific situation. Many accredited providers ensure quality service standards for businesses seeking comprehensive protection.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between armed and unarmed security guards depends entirely on your business’s specific risk level and protection needs. Unarmed guards provide excellent cost-effective security for lower-risk environments through professional presence and conflict de-escalation skills. Armed security becomes essential for high-risk businesses handling valuable assets or operating in dangerous locations. Consider your industry type, location-crime statistics, asset values, and budget constraints when making this decision. Professional security consultants can evaluate your unique situation and recommend the most appropriate protection level. The National Institute of Standards and Technology provides evaluation frameworks for different industries, while Security companies in Sugar Land can assess your specific needs and recommend appropriate protection levels. Remember that any security presence significantly reduces crime risk compared to having no protection at all. The right security choice protects your employees, assets, and business reputation while providing peace of mind for daily operations.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do armed guards prevent crime effectively?

Armed guards successfully prevent many crimes from occurring and create safer environments for everyone involved. The primary advantages of armed security include crime prevention and thorough observation with detailed reporting when incidents happen.

Are all security guards armed?

Security guards can be armed or unarmed depending on the business type requiring protection services. Some states permit guards to carry firearms when job duties specifically require this equipment. Guards cannot legally carry or use firearms when not performing official job functions.

What equipment do armed security guards carry?

Equipment depends on the specific job requirements and industry where security guards work. Armed security personnel may carry batons, pepper spray, tear gas, and firearms as needed. Additional items include two-way radios for communication purposes, handcuffs for suspect detention, flashlights for visibility, and smartphones for coordination.

How much do security guards typically cost per hour?

Security guard costs vary based on location, experience level, and whether they’re armed or unarmed. Unarmed guards typically cost less than armed security guards, who generally charge more due to specialized training requirements. Additional factors affecting pricing include shift length, number of guards needed, and specific job duties required.

Can businesses hire part-time security guards?

Yes, businesses can absolutely hire part-time security guards for flexible protection coverage. Many security companies offer part-time scheduling options to fit different business needs and budgets. Part-time guards work well for businesses needing coverage during specific hours, events, or peak times. This arrangement allows companies to maintain security presence without committing to full-time staffing costs.