OSH Security Practice Test

You are working as a security guard when you become the victim of a criminal act while on duty. What do you do next?

1. Complete a detailed report and notify your supervisor

2. Call the police and make a report

3. Attempt to identify the suspect, conduct an investigation and arrest the offender once identified

4. Take notes and notify your supervisor on the next business day

The correct answer is: Call the police and make a report

Calling the police and making a report is the appropriate action to take in the event of becoming a victim of a criminal act while on duty. This response ensures that law enforcement is involved immediately, which can facilitate a swift investigation and response to the crime. Reporting to the police helps to ensure that a formal record is established, which is critical for any subsequent legal proceedings or investigations. Also, notifying the police allows for a professional investigation to take place, using their resources and legal authority to gather evidence and apprehend suspects, which a security guard may not be equipped to handle alone. This action prioritizes safety for yourself and others, ensuring that trained professionals are notified promptly. While completing a detailed report and notifying a supervisor is important for internal documentation and follow-up, the immediate involvement of law enforcement is crucial. Conducting your own investigation and attempting to identify or arrest the suspect could put you in danger and is outside the scope of a security guard's responsibilities. Finally, taking notes and waiting to notify a supervisor the next business day is too delayed to effectively address a criminal act that should be reported right away.