Security guards play a valuable role in visitor management as gatekeepers against bad actors. Although people commonly focus on computers, data breaches or security threats are often caused by the wrong people gaining access.
The global average cost of a data breach in 2024 was $4.88 million —a 10% increase over 2023 and the highest total ever. However, this kind of breach isn’t inevitable. 88 percent of cybersecurity breaches are caused by human error.
Whether it’s an angry former employee, an intruder, or someone accidentally accessing restricted areas, security breaches can result in data theft, intellectual property loss, and physical damage.
Security guards are the first line of defense against these threats. When properly trained, they can verify visitors and make sure only authorized people can gain access to sensitive areas. This helps prevent illegal entry and maintains secure buildings and businesses.
Explore the convergence of physical and digital security in The Interconnected Future: Reducing Risk Through Unified Protection Strategies
Doing More for Visitor Management
The role of a security guard in visitor management has evolved significantly in recent years. Gone are the days when their primary duties were limited to checking IDs and distributing visitor passes. Today’s security professionals are integral to creating a safe, efficient, and welcoming environment for visitors and employees.
Modern visitor management requires a multifaceted approach that combines vigilance, customer service skills, and technological savvy. Security guards now serve as the first line of defense against potential threats while simultaneously acting as ambassadors for the organizations they protect.
Security guards perform critical visitor management duties such as:
Read our Security Guard Checklist for more info.
Preventing Security Breaches
The role of security guards extends far beyond responding to incidents as they occur. Proactive measures are crucial in maintaining a safe environment and preventing potential threats before they materialize. Security professionals now play a pivotal role in anticipating, identifying, and mitigating risks, ensuring a robust defense against various security challenges.
Here are some of the critical preventive measures that security guards employ to safeguard premises and people:
Security guards aren’t just reacting to problems; they’re preventing them. They create a sense of security by performing risk assessments, managing access, preparing for emergencies, and using surveillance. And ultimately, they’re creating a safe workplace where people can do their best work.
Elevating Security Standards Through Innovative Visitor Management
Trackforce offers robust security workforce management solutions, and its all-in-one, end-to-end platform, TrackTik, has a comprehensive Visitor Management module. TrackTik’s Visitor Management module helps make it easy for security guards to oversee and regulate site access.
Security guards can enforce access control policies, ensuring only authorized personnel enter designated areas. The system provides tools to verify visitor identities, check for pre-approved access, and manage access permissions – all from a centralized platform.
In addition, the TrackTik Visitor Management module allows staff to perform concierge-level duties. From pre-registering visitors to providing directions and assistance, guards can improve visitors’ overall experience and leave them with a positive impression.
The platform allows for automated visitor check-in and check-out workflows, which helps speed up the entire process. Plus, no need for paper logs — digital records make data easy to access.
TrackTik maintains ongoing visibility of individuals on the premises, so there’s a clear picture of who is always present. This makes it easier to identify unauthorized people and helps with rapid evacuation in an emergency.
The TrackTik Visitor Management module simplifies a potentially complicated process. Security teams have the right tools to manage access, automate tasks, track who is present, and integrate with other systems. This means stronger security and a better visitor experience.
Safe and Sound
Security guards aren’t just the first line of defense against security breaches; they also contribute to making the workplace a better place. Tools like the TrackTik Visitor Management module move security operations to a new level. Combining human expertise and technological innovation helps create a secure and welcoming environment.
