Saskatchewan Security Guard License Practice Exam

When is it appropriate for a security guard to use physical force?

1. When asked by law enforcement.

2. Only when absolutely necessary to prevent harm or protect someone.

3. When a conflict escalates.

4. When others are watching.

The correct answer is: Only when absolutely necessary to prevent harm or protect someone.

The appropriate occasion for a security guard to use physical force is only when absolutely necessary to prevent harm or protect someone. This principle aligns with the legal and ethical standards governing the role of security personnel. The use of physical force must always be a last resort, embarked upon only when there is an imminent threat to oneself or others that cannot be mitigated through verbal de-escalation or other non-physical means. In situations where harm is foreseeable and immediate action is required to ensure safety, the guard must assess the level of threat and the proportionality of their response. This ensures that any physical intervention is justified and reasonable under the circumstances, thus adhering to the principles of reasonable force. The other considerations mentioned in the options highlight situations that are not inherently justifiable for the use of physical force. For instance, acting solely on a request from law enforcement might not always align with the standard of necessity if the situation does not warrant force. Similarly, escalating force in response to a conflict or acting for the sake of the presence of others may lead to unnecessary violence or could escalate the situation further. Therefore, the guiding rule remains that physical force should only be employed when absolutely necessary for protection or harm prevention.