What are the legal requirements for using force as a security guard?

The legal requirement for using force as a security guard is grounded in the principle that any force employed must be reasonable and necessary in response to an immediate threat or criminal activity. This means that security personnel are permitted to take action to protect themselves and others from harm, but the level of force must be proportional to the situation they are facing.

For example, if faced with a potential threat that could lead to physical harm, a security guard may use physical restraint or defensive maneuvers to prevent escalation. However, the application of force should never exceed what is required to effectively handle the situation. This principle is in place to ensure that security personnel do not overreact or use excessive force, which could lead to legal consequences, liability issues, or cause undue harm.

The other options do not align with legal expectations for security guards. Lethal force should only be considered in life-threatening situations and is not a blanket justification for all incidents. Avoiding all use of force could leave security personnel and others vulnerable to harm. Broadcasting warnings may be a good practice in some contexts, but it is not a legal requirement that takes precedence over the immediate need to protect individuals from harm.