Illinois Security Guard Practice Exam

What should a security guard do upon discovering a safety hazard?

1. Ignore it and continue working

2. Secure the area, report it to the appropriate authorities, and document the incident

3. Call a friend for advice

4. Post about it on social media

The correct answer is: Secure the area, report it to the appropriate authorities, and document the incident

When a security guard discovers a safety hazard, the first and most important action is to secure the area to prevent any potential injury or damage. This ensures that no one else can inadvertently become involved with the hazard, thereby minimizing the risk of accidents. Next, reporting the hazard to the appropriate authorities is crucial. This could involve notifying a supervisor, facility management, or emergency services, depending on the nature of the hazard. Prompt reporting allows for a quick response to assess and rectify the problem, ensuring the safety of all individuals in the vicinity. Documenting the incident is also an essential component of the response. This provides a record of what was discovered, the actions taken, and any follow-up procedures necessary. Documentation can be vital for future reference, potential legal implications, and improving safety protocols. In contrast, ignoring the hazard poses a direct risk to anyone in the area and negates the security guard’s responsibility to ensure safety. Seeking advice from a friend or posting on social media distracts from the immediate need to address the hazard and could lead to misunderstandings or further complications. Addressing safety concerns in a responsible and efficient manner is fundamental to the role of a security guard.