Hotel Security

Security guard in hotels must move around to patrol the various parts of a property. They check the doors and stairwells to make sure the locks are secure and no danger is lurking. Most hotel managers like to see the security guard in the lobby, especially when large groups arrive and during busy morning and afternoon times to provide guests with a sense of security. Guards must patrol outdoors as well as room hallways and activity areas, such as the pool and spa. Large properties may employ a number of guards to keep up patrols and maintain communication through radios.

It is typically the role of the security team to purchase, maintain and monitor security cameras, alarm systems and other electronic surveillance equipment. One or more security personnel may be stationed in an office where they can watch the activity captured by the cameras on television monitors. Working cameras are great deterrents to crime and can allow one security guard to watch numerous locations on the property simultaneously.

The security guard on duty often is called to escort unruly patrons from the property. Many hotels have bars and nightclubs located on the property and count on the security guards to maintain order by directing intoxicated guests to taxis or friends for transport out of the building. Loiterers not registered at the hotel may need an escort off the property, particularly if they are harassing guests. Security teams may have a designated holding area in the hotel where they can detain people against whom the hotel wishes to press charges.

Most hotels employ security guards 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Job descriptions for hotel security officers include a requirement for flexibility. They must be available to work set shifts and cover alternate shifts when necessary. After each shift, the security officer fills in a report and communicates all the activity they encountered during those specific working hours. A thorough report can alert the next shift to areas that need extra attention.