Remote Guarding vs. Security Guards

Safety and security fall in the top three most important aspects in life for many Americans. With many security solutions available for businesses and communities, it’s essential to compare the effectiveness of each option in preventing crime. Since property crime is more common than other types of crime, property managers need to focus on crime deterrence, emergency response and risk management. There are two ways to go about it — remote guarding versus security guards.

Virtual security monitoring allows you to monitor property from any location. In contrast, on-site security personnel physically patrol your property and keep an eye on things. Let’s compare the pros and cons of remote guarding versus security guards so you can choose the solution that works best for your situation.

Remote Guarding Explained 

Remote guarding — also known as virtual guarding — combines various advanced technologies and surveillance services. At its core, remote guarding uses a network of high-quality CCTV cameras strategically placed throughout the premises. These cameras transmit real-time footage to a centralized security operations center (SOC) where trained security professionals analyze the video using sophisticated video analytics software.

Other types of technology involved in remote guarding include:

• Video analytics software: This software analyzes live video feeds to identify motion detection, loitering or unauthorized access. Some systems can identify individuals with facial recognition and behavioral analytics can assess behavior patterns to help distinguish between potential threats and normal activity.
• Motion sensors: These devices detect movement within a specified area and trigger alerts or activate cameras to capture footage of the event.
• Heat sensors: Changes in temperature can indicate the presence of a person or object in a restricted area, even in complete darkness.
• Audio intervention systems: Two-way audio communication allows security personnel to communicate with individuals on-site through speakers and microphones to give warnings or instructions.
• Intrusion detection alarms: These alarms are triggered by unauthorized access attempts, alerting the monitoring center to potential security breaches.
• AI-powered monitoring: AI systems can filter through thousands of alerts and alarms to reduce false positives. Some AI systems can analyze historical data to predict potential security risks, which helps businesses address vulnerabilities proactively.
• Mobile monitoring applications: Property owners and security personnel can monitor live feeds and receive alerts on mobile devices, allowing for quick responses even when they’re away from the SOC.

These technologies work together to detect unusual activities or movements. For example, if a suspicious person is detected trying to enter a building, the monitoring agents in the SOC receive an alert. The guards can then issue a warning through a loudspeaker, alert local law enforcement and notify the property’s security team.

Remote monitoring services offer a range of advantages for business owners and property managers. These are some benefits of remote guarding:

• 24/7 monitoring: Remote guarding systems operate around the clock, providing continuous surveillance even when businesses are closed or staff are unavailable.
• Comprehensive coverage: Virtual security officers can monitor entire premises simultaneously, ensuring no area goes unnoticed.
• Strong crime deterrent: Criminals are more likely to stay clear of properties with visible remote guarding systems in place.
• Data-driven insights: Data collected through remote guarding systems can be analyzed to identify patterns, trends and potential vulnerabilities.
• Enhanced productivity: Employees feel safer and spend less time on security-related activities with remote guarding services around.

One of the main drawbacks of remote guarding is the lack of a physical security presence. While virtual monitoring is effective, some situations may require the immediate intervention of a security guard. For example, security guards may need to escort individuals off the property or help handle emergencies. Additionally, unless backup exists, any technical issues or outages could compromise remote security monitoring.

The Role of Security Guards

Security guards are trained professionals who provide a physical presence on a property to deter crime, respond to incidents and ensure the safety of employees, customers and assets. Their roles are essential in modern business operations, offering a human touch to security that technology alone can’t replicate. They also manage entry points to properties, ensuring only authorized individuals gain access.

Similar to remote guarding technology, the presence of security guards serves as a deterrent against criminal activities. Security guards conduct regular patrols of the premises, inspecting high-traffic and high-risk areas. This proactive approach allows them to detect suspicious behavior, security vulnerabilities and potential hazards early.

Additionally, security guards help with the following:

• Incident response: Security personnel are often the first responders in critical situations. They’re trained to handle security breaches, fire watch and medical crises.
• Customer service: Guards often serve as the first point of contact for visitors as they can provide assistance, directions and information.
• Reporting: Detailed incident reports are essential for documenting security breaches and improving future safety measures.
• Crowd management: In environments where large groups gather, security guards regulate entry, ensure compliance with safety protocols, and identify and remove disruptive individuals to maintain order.
• Collaboration with law enforcement: Security guards work closely with local law enforcement and emergency services during dangerous situations. Their training and knowledge of the property allow them to provide valuable information and support to authorities.

There are two main types of security guards — armed and unarmed. Armed security guards are authorized to carry firearms and are typically employed in high-risk environments. Unarmed guards provide security without weapons and are commonly present in environments where the risk of violence is lower.

Advantages of Security Guards

On-site security guards offer a range of benefits that make them essential for maintaining safety and security in various environments. Some of these advantages include:

• Situational training and awareness: From monitoring premises to responding to emergencies, security guards learn how to assess risks and take appropriate action quickly. Security guards maintain awareness of their surroundings. They notice unusual behavior and manage it promptly.
• Immediate response: On-site guards can respond to incidents immediately to suppress issues before they escalate.
• Better reputation: A clear security presence demonstrates a dedication to customer and employee safety, especially in industries where trust and security play a large role.
• Conflict resolution: Security personnel can de-escalate situations. Their ability to handle conflicts calmly and professionally can prevent incidents from escalating into violence.
• 24-hour protection: When businesses are closed, the presence of security guards helps safeguard properties and assets, reducing the risk of break-ins or vandalism.

Industries That Benefit From Security Guard Services

With many security guarding options for businesses available, various industries benefit from the safety, protection and peace of mind on-site security officers provide around their areas:

1. Banks: The financial sector often employs armed security guards to deter robbery and fraud while ensuring the safety of clients and employees.
2. Retail stores: Retail environments frequently use security guards to prevent shoplifting, manage crowds and provide customer assistance, especially in high-traffic areas.
3. Events: Large gatherings, such as concerts, festivals and trade shows, require a significant security presence to manage crowds, control access and respond to emergencies.
4. Residential communities: Gated communities and apartment complexes often employ security guards to monitor access points, deter crime and provide a sense of safety for residents.
5. Industrial sites: Industrial facilities, warehouses and construction sites often have valuable equipment and inventory, leading to a strong reliance on security guards for theft prevention and safety compliance.
6. Schools: Educational institutions employ security guards to ensure student safety, manage access and respond to emergencies.
7. Healthcare facilities: Security personnel are essential in healthcare settings to protect patients, staff and sensitive areas, as well as to manage potential conflict.
8. Chemical and petrochemical plants: Due to the hazardous nature of their operations, these facilities often require on-site security to ensure safety compliance and prevent unauthorized access.
9. Maritime areas: In maritime settings, security guards protect vessels and cargo, manage access to ports, and ensure compliance with safety regulations.

Effectiveness of Remote Guarding Compared to Security Personnel

When comparing the on-site security guards to remote guarding, several factors come into play. Here’s how these two security approaches stack up against each other.

1. Cost Analysis

The cost of remote guarding services requires a significant upfront investment in technology, including high-definition cameras, monitoring equipment and sensors. Remote guarding typically operates on a subscription model with monthly fees covering monitoring, maintenance and support.

In contrast, hiring your own security guards incurs ongoing expenses like benefits, salaries and training. Additional expenses may also include costs for uniforms, security equipment and administrative overhead related to hiring and managing personnel. However, hiring security guards on an as-needed basis eliminates these costs.

2. Crime Prevention

The presence of both on-site security guards and high-definition cameras with signage indicating remote monitoring serves as a strong deterrent to potential criminals. Remote guarding systems can detect threats in real time with AI-powered CCTV cameras and live monitoring agents providing continuous surveillance.

While remote guarding provides effective monitoring, it lacks the personal touch of human interaction. Security guards are unable to be in multiple places at the same time, but they can assess situations and use their judgment, experience and training to prevent incidents.

3. Response Times

Centralized monitoring allows for swift reactions to security breaches. Remote guarding agents can assess threats, trigger alarms, issue verbal warnings and contact law enforcement. While these technologies can pick up potential security breaches promptly, you still need on-site security guards to respond immediately to any emergency.

4. Flexibility and Adaptability

Remote guarding systems can be easily scaled to accommodate multiple locations without a proportional increase in staff. This flexibility allows businesses to adapt their security measures as needs change.

Expanding traditional security requires hiring and training additional guards, which can be time-consuming and costly unless you hire trained professionals from a security guard company. Security guards excel in their ability to adapt to unique situations. They can respond to dynamic environments and adjust their approach based on crowd behavior or emergencies.

Which Is Better: Remote Guarding or Security Guards?

How do you choose between remote guarding and security guards? To select the right security solution for your property, you should evaluate a few factors, such as:

• Size of the property: Larger properties may benefit from remote guarding that can monitor multiple locations simultaneously, while smaller sites might find on-site guards sufficient.
• Type of business: Different industries have varying security needs. For example, retail stores may benefit from the presence of security guards for customer interaction, while industrial sites may prioritize surveillance and monitoring.
• Location: High-crime areas may require a stronger physical presence from security guards, whereas lower-risk locations might be adequately protected with remote monitoring.
• Budget: Consider the costs associated with each option. Remote guarding may reduce labor costs, but the initial investment in technology may be higher.
• Types of threats: Identify the specific threats your property faces, such as theft, vandalism or more violent actions. Review past incidents to understand the types of security breaches that have occurred and how they were handled.
• Operational hours: Consider when your property is most vulnerable. If security is needed primarily after hours, remote guarding may be more effective. Conversely, if security is required during business hours, on-site guards may be a better option.
• Employee and customer interaction: If your business relies heavily on customer interaction, having security guards around can enhance the customer experience and provide immediate assistance. Also, consider how the presence of security personnel may impact employee morale and safety.

Despite advancements in technology, security guards remain vital in providing a human presence. They respond to complex situations, but can also use judgment and empathy in ways that technology cannot replicate.

A hybrid security system integrates the best of both worlds to provide comprehensive protection. The combination ensures all areas are monitored effectively throughout the day with real-time responses to incidents from on-site security guards. This strategy deters crime while enhancing customer service. Using remote guarding for routine monitoring can also help reduce the number of on-site guards needed, leading to significant savings.

Protect Your Property With The Guard Alliance

Remote guarding and security guard services can be used together to create a more comprehensive security solution. In many cases, remote guarding even enhances the effectiveness of security guards by providing them with real-time information and support so they can intervene promptly when necessary.

At The Guard Alliance, we can quickly send security guards to your location within just a few hours. We are fully licensed, bonded and insured to fulfill all your security needs. Our security guards undergo a rigorous selection process that includes thorough background checks at multiple levels. We continuously enhance their skills through comprehensive training programs, ensuring they’re well-prepared to handle any situation.

Contact us today to learn more about our security guard services.