Hiring a security guard company is a critical step toward protecting your business, employees, and assets—but the effectiveness of that protection hinges on one crucial factor: training. A well-trained security team is the difference between a passive presence and a proactive, capable force that can prevent incidents, handle emergencies, and maintain a safe environment. So, how can you ensure your chosen security guard company is properly trained?

In this guide, we’ll walk through the key elements to look for in a trained security guard companies, what certifications matter, how to evaluate their procedures, and why investing in well-trained guards pays off in the long run.

1. Understand the Importance of Training

Before diving into evaluations, it's essential to understand why security guard training matters. Trained guards are better equipped to:

  • Recognize and respond to threats.

  • Handle high-pressure situations.

  • Manage access control and surveillance equipment.

  • Communicate effectively with staff and emergency responders.

  • De-escalate potential conflicts peacefully.

When your security guard company has robust training protocols, you can trust their team to uphold safety standards professionally and confidently.

2. Ask About Licensing and Certifications

One of the first ways to verify a security guard company is properly trained is by asking for licenses and certifications. In most regions, security personnel must undergo regulated training and be certified before providing services.

What to look for:

  • SIA License (UK) or state licensing (US/Canada) – Required for guards to operate legally.

  • Certifications in First Aid/CPR, conflict management, fire safety, or crowd control.

  • Proof of ongoing professional development or refresher training.

A reputable security guard company will not hesitate to provide documentation verifying their credentials.

3. Evaluate Their Onboarding Process

How a company trains new hires says a lot about its standards. Ask the company to walk you through their onboarding and training program. Ideally, every new guard should go through:

  • Classroom instruction covering laws, policies, ethics, and emergency protocols.

  • Hands-on simulations to prepare for real-life scenarios.

  • Site-specific training for your business environment, including procedures unique to your location.

  • Shadowing experienced guards before being assigned to solo duty.

The more thorough the onboarding, the more confident you can be in the guard’s preparedness.

4. Inquire About Ongoing Training Programs

Initial training is essential, but ongoing education is just as important. The security landscape constantly evolves—new threats emerge, technology changes, and legal standards shift. Your security guard company should offer regular updates to their guards’ skills.

Ask questions like:

  • How often do your guards participate in refresher training?

  • Do you conduct emergency drills, active shooter training, or conflict resolution sessions?

  • Are supervisors regularly evaluated and trained to manage on-site teams?

Companies that invest in continuous learning demonstrate a commitment to excellence and adaptability.

5. Inspect Communication and Reporting Standards

Training goes beyond physical protection. Effective security guards must also excel in communication and reporting. Trained guards should be able to:

  • Use clear, professional communication with employees, visitors, and law enforcement.

  • Maintain detailed incident reports and daily logs.

  • Know how and when to escalate issues internally or externally.

Ask the company for sample reports and evaluate their clarity, thoroughness, and professionalism. A strong reporting culture is a sign of solid training.

6. Check for Specialization Based on Your Industry

Your business may have specific security needs—such as retail loss prevention, event crowd control, or warehouse access monitoring. Make sure the security guard company has experience and training relevant to your sector.

Ask:

  • Have your guards worked in businesses like ours before?

  • What special training do they undergo for this industry?

  • Can you provide client references in similar sectors?

Industry-specific training ensures guards are not just reactive—they understand the unique risks and routines of your business.

7. Observe Guards in Action

If possible, visit a site where the company currently operates or request a trial period. Observe the guards:

  • Are they alert and professional?

  • Do they follow proper protocol when managing entry and exit?

  • Can they confidently answer questions or provide guidance?

Real-world observation is a valuable way to evaluate how training translates into day-to-day performance.

8. Review the Company’s Training Credentials and Partnerships

The best security guard companies often partner with industry-recognized training institutions or follow ISO-certified protocols. These partnerships indicate the company follows best practices and is committed to raising industry standards.

Look for affiliations with:

  • National security associations

  • Law enforcement consultants

  • Occupational safety organizations

These connections suggest a proactive approach to security training and professional development.

9. Evaluate Guard Supervision and Quality Assurance

Even the best-trained guards need ongoing oversight. Strong security guard companies have systems in place to:

  • Supervise guards through site managers or field supervisors.

  • Conduct regular performance reviews.

  • Use GPS and mobile tools to track patrols and verify compliance.

  • Provide corrective training if issues arise.

Ask how often supervisors visit sites and how issues are handled. Supervision is an extension of training—without it, quality can drop.

10. Make Training Part of the Contract Agreement

To ensure consistency, request that the training standards be included in your service-level agreement or contract. This can include:

  • Required certifications for all guards assigned to your site.

  • Site-specific training requirements.

  • Frequency of refresher courses and supervision.

Making training part of the contract holds the security guard company accountable and ensures your business gets the quality of protection it deserves.

Conclusion: Trust the Trained Professionals

Choosing a security guard company is more than a cost decision—it's a commitment to safety. Proper training ensures that your guards are not just present, but prepared, proactive, and professional. By following the steps above, you can evaluate any provider thoroughly and build a lasting partnership rooted in performance, accountability, and trust.

A trained security guard company isn’t just a vendor—they’re your front line of defense. Make sure they’re ready for the responsibility.

Intraguard is a leading company home security, providing services like manned guarding, CCTV monitoring, patrolling, and guard dog patrols to ensure the safety of your home.