Male Security guards during COVID-19: Are they most at risk?
The past couple of months has seen an increase in demand for security guards to work in various establishments that have remained open throughout the lockdown period. Recent articles have suggested that male security guards are more at risk of dying from COVID-19. Sky news have released an article recently, which has highlighted that “men made up two thirds of the 4,761 deaths registered among people of working age (20 to 64) in England and Wales.” (ONS, 2020). Security jobs as well as other professions such as taxi drivers, carers and food operatives were all seen as high-risk roles outside of healthcare due to the level of contact with members of the public. However, it appears that security guard deaths have been greater than other elementary jobs.
Should security guards get tested?
The job both male and security female workers are undertaking during this time of uncertainty has created risk. For one, most people who are tested positive for COVID-19 show no symptoms. If this is the case, both male and female security guards should be given the opportunity to have access to free testing if their jobs pose a risk to others. Alongside testing, security guards should be able to get access to free PPE or stronger equipment that will hinder the chances of them contracting the virus and passing it on to others. With all jobs there are a certain risk but for many roles, precautions have been taken and measurements have been installed. Security guards undertaking a more physical role that requires movement and interaction with members of the public, puts them in a position like those working in healthcare establishments who are also at high risk.
The push for more support on healthcare and safety
As mentioned before, with every job there are risks. The current climate we are in as we slowly transition from lockdown to normal settings mean that security guards are vital for running operations across establishments. Whether it is company sessions on ensuring safety and informing employees about services available or provision of medical supplies and protective equipment, we do need to push this on the agenda with security roles.
We hope you have enjoyed our article. Our aim at Quick Click Security is to centralise access to jobs, training and knowledge - creating a community and working together to professionalise the private security sector.
