When are security guards permitted to use force?

Security guards are permitted to use force primarily in situations involving self-defense or to protect others from harm. This principle is grounded in the legal concept of the right to self-defense, which allows individuals to take reasonable action to protect themselves or those around them from immediate threats of physical harm.

In the context of security work, this means that if a guard perceives an imminent threat—such as an assault on themselves or another person—they are authorized to use an appropriate level of force to neutralize the threat and ensure safety. The level of force must be proportional to the threat being faced; excessive force could lead to legal repercussions and is generally discouraged.

Other options highlight misunderstandings of the guidelines governing the use of force by security personnel. For example, asserting authority or using force at one's discretion without specific justification doesn't align with lawful practices and could result in abuses of power. Similarly, acting only on supervisor direction without the presence of an immediate threat doesn't provide a justification for force, as security personnel need to be able to respond appropriately in emergency situations.