Benefits of Integrating Technology with Manned Guarding Services

Today’s security threats require a comprehensive, layered approach. Relying on traditional systems, outdated security technology, or manned guarding services alone can produce a false sense of security and leave you exposed. 

For example, older surveillance systems might lack motion detection, remote viewing, or HD viewing quality – making it harder to identify suspicious activity and provide video evidence in case of an incident. Guards are tremendous assets, but without the right tools in place, they may miss activity in areas that are uncovered.

This article will show how combining manned guarding services with integrated technology provides more comprehensive security coverage.

The Role of Manned Guarding in Modern Security

The human presence in threat detection and deterrence remains indispensable. Manned security guarding provides superior situational awareness with the ability to adapt to unexpected situations and interact with individuals.

Highly trained security personnel will deter criminal activity, de-escalate situations, and manage your security processes. They are often the first point of contact for visitors and staff, and provide a professional presence that makes people feel safe.

However, this solution comes with its own challenges. Security guards can only patrol so many areas within a particular time frame, which can create coverage limitations and surveillance gaps. Monitoring can be inconsistent as a result, especially if there are distractions, which can also increase exposure to threats.

The solution: a hybrid security strategy combines guards with cutting-edge technology to achieve better coverage. It's a more cost-effective and effective approach to protecting your people and assets.

How Technology Enhances Manned Guarding Services

Enhanced physical security includes the latest technology to equip your company and security team with the tools they need to work efficiently. Security system integration should incorporate:

• Video surveillance with guard patrols: Security cameras provide continuous monitoring and allow guards to focus on high-risk areas. Remote monitoring produces greater coverage than guards alone. At the same time, remote monitoring enables guards to respond swiftly to suspicious activities, so they get instant alerts even if they are on patrol and away from the monitors.
• Physical access control: Access control systems reduce the need for manual checks. A centralized system for managing keycard or smartphone access can simplify management and limit entry to buildings, rooms, or areas only to authorized users.
• Real-time communication tools: Mobile devices and cloud-based communication platforms keep guards and control centers connected. Real-time communication tools enable faster response times and better coordination during emergencies. They also make it easier to manage security systems with a mobile platform that can be accessed from anywhere.
• AI-enhanced detection and alerts: AI systems can analyze video feeds and sensor data to identify potential threats in real-time. They can identify suspicious activity and alert guards for further investigation or intervention.

A comprehensive approach to physical security will also include intrusion detection systems. For example, motion sensors, glass break detectors, and door and window sensors can trigger alarms for rapid response.

Key Benefits of Technology-Enabled Manned Guarding

A hybrid strategy offers several key benefits to enhance your coverage.

Increased Efficiency

Technology streamlines operations so that guards can focus on critical tasks rather than routine checks. Real-time monitoring and automated alerts reduce the time it takes to detect and respond to incidents, leading to faster resolutions and minimized risk.

Reduced False Alarms

False alarms are a common issue in traditional security setups, often requiring guards to investigate non-issues. This wastes time and resources and can cause frustration among personnel. Advanced systems equipped with AI analytics significantly reduce false alerts so that guards are deployed only when necessary.

Enhanced Coverage

Blind spots and areas that guards cannot continuously patrol are common vulnerabilities in physical security. Technology fills these gaps by offering 24/7 surveillance and monitoring. Video surveillance systems can oversee large areas. Motion sensors can monitor inaccessible or high-risk zones. Mobile surveillance units can be deployed to provide precise coverage wherever you need it.

Cost Savings

Integrating technology with manned guarding allows you to optimize your security investments. By reducing the need for additional guards while improving the efficiency of existing staff, you can stretch your dollars further and improve your security posture.

Improved Safety

Automated alerts and analytics improve situational awareness, enabling guards to anticipate and respond to potential risks before they escalate. For example, thermal imaging cameras can detect unauthorized individuals in restricted areas while AI systems can analyze patterns to identify unusual behavior. 

Scalability and Adaptability

The best technology-enabled systems are scalable, making them ideal for organizations with evolving security needs. Whether you are expanding to new locations or adapting to emerging threats, you can update or add to your security system with minimal disruption.

Physical Security Audit: Assess, Prevent, and Protect

Do you have the right combination of human assets and technology to protect your people, facilities, and assets?

A physical security audit will help you identify, prevent, and mitigate your risks.

At GardaWorld Security, we conduct threat and risk assessments that include inspecting your facilities, focusing on perimeter security, entry and exit points, access control, intrusion systems, electronic and human surveillance, personnel, and emergency procedures. 

In short, we help you create a roadmap to build a comprehensive security strategy. This action plan will include specific recommendations and priorities for enhancing your coverage. Our team can also help you implement these recommendations.

A Comprehensive Security Strategy: Manual Guarding and Technology

Ultimately, integrating advanced security technologies with manned guarding services creates a hybrid security solution that enables better coverage and more comprehensive security. With real-time threat detection, automated alerts, and data to aid your security team, you can reduce risk and gain greater peace of mind.

Discover how our comprehensive security services can support and enhance your business operations. Contact GardaWorld Security today to discuss how a hybrid security approach can benefit your organization.