To an amateur eye or a casual observer, there is no distinction between a security officer and a security supervisor; they both appear to perform the same tasks. Since the purpose of both roles is similar, it’s easy to confuse the two positions—in both roles, keeping someone or something safe is the priority.

Even most licensing agencies do not make a distinction between security supervisors and security officers. Most of them use these two terms interchangeably since the roles do not have a universal definition.

For example, the duties of a hotel security Officer/supervisor may differ from those of a mall security officer or supervisor, and the duties of a residential building security officer/supervisor may differ from those of a Production Company.

Each industry creates, plans, and implements a security strategy in response to the risks and threats it faces; therefore, not all businesses face the same level of safety and security threats. However, the following are the general responsibilities of all types of security supervisors. When you are familiar with them, it will help you to select the best one for you.

Let us have a look at what basic roles a security officer entail:

Supervise and guide security guards: The security officer should monitor the entire team’s activities on the ground and train them to interact properly with visitors, vendors, and employees.

Maintaining daily records: The security officer may need to prepare various reports at the workplace including those regarding incidents, accidents, security breaches, etc. Therefore, He should know and write the report properly and record them in the occurrence book or any other form.

Familiar with locations: Without a complete knowledge of the site, a security officer cannot expect his team to perform their duties effectively. As a result, he should be familiar with the overall design of the premises.

Regularly patrol and spot-check premises: The security officer should conduct Regular patrols in all parts of the facility, including activity rooms, public areas, outlets, and surrounding areas, to spot-check the security guards’ performance and other security-related matters.

Conduct emergency response drills: Every business or organization has a security policy that includes an emergency drill. An emergency drill is a rehearsal where all employees and visitors practice what to do in an emergency. Depending on the company, the drill may take place once a month or every three months. A security officer is responsible for conducting the drill during non-emergency situations.

Investigations and interviews: If an incident happens, a security officer should investigate it; when investigating, He must be aware of company policies and individuals’ rights under the law while recording the statement.

Daily physical hazard/safety inspections: Each day, a security office should check for safety and security hazards; if notice any equipment that is causing danger, He should report it to the appropriate department to fix it.

Monitor Closed Circuit Televisions and alarm systems: The security officer must be familiar with the security systems, such as CCTV and an alarm system. He must oversee the system to ensure the proper functioning and identify any unauthorised activities.

Assist visitors /employees during emergencies: A security officer is the leader of the building’s evacuation in the event of an emergency; therefore, He should assist those in danger zones because he is familiar with the escape routes, exit doors, and their purpose.

Gather information and complete reports, and Maintain confidentiality: A security officer can gather information by coordinating with other security personnel and employees in the case of an incident or accident; He must write a report once find something unlawful. Making the report is important; it is also necessary not to disclose the secret without proper authorization, so the security officers must maintain confidentiality.

Defuse disturbances by company policies and procedures: If a disagreement arises between security personnel, between employees, visitors, vendors, or with anyone else, the security officer must resolve it by company policy.

Handle all interruptions and complaints: If a customer, employee, or resident makes any complaint, the security officer should address it appropriately without escalating the situation. He must find an acceptable solution by consulting with the department or individual that relates the issues.

Motivating and coaching employees: The security officer should motivate everyone else working on the premises and encourage them to follow company policies and procedures. Inform them about the important points while they are on duty and help them to develop a positive attitude toward their jobs and themselves.

Develop and maintain positive working relationships with others: It is critical to maintaining positive relationships among team members; as a security officer, you should encourage your team members to put their differences aside and work toward a common goal. Not only should He play the role of security personnel, but He should also play the role of managing positive work relationships with other employees. If there is an issue that may jeopardize the inter-personal relationship, the security officer should try to resolve it as soon as possible.

Risk assessment of assets: Each work environment contains dangers. The security officer must know and should conduct a risk assessment regularly to ensure that all appropriate preventative measures are in place to avoid incidents.

Visually inspect tools, equipment, or machines: The technology used in the premises can become a hazard sometimes; the security officer should inspect all the equipment regularly to ensure it is free of defects. Upon discovery of a fault, should take the immediate initiative to fix it, also takes the necessary approval before to do.

Police liaison: The security Officer must coordinate with public authorities such as police or law enforcement officers to facilitate the investigation if any incident in the premises requires additional investigation.