Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector - CoESS

Social dialoguePreventing occupational hazards is oneof the important issues on the agendaof the social partners in this sector. Thisconcern is also borne out by the fact thatthis item is often mentioned in joint publicationsand declarations:“In certain functions of the private securitysector, there are considerable occupationalhazards to be reckoned with. Theminimum health and safety standards forprivate security guards must at least beapplied in all companies in the sector inorder to ensure the maximum possibleprevention of occupational hazards.These standards should be regularlyrevised in consultation with social partnersand competent authorities, in order toguarantee the health and safety of securitypersonnel”.Code of conduct and ethics forthe private security sectorThe safety of employees“Preventing occupational hazards is oneof the most important aspects of theorganization of work in the private securitysector. Training is essential in this area,as is the development of techniques andprocedures which guarantee, to the greatestextent possible, the safety of workersexposed to dangerous situations (…)”.Minimizing the risks“All workers in the sector must be givenappropriate training in the best practicesin the field of health and safety;this reduces the risks to which they areexposed and allows them to carry outmore efficiently their mission of protectingpeople and property”.The issues and results of European socialdialogue in the private security sectorThe social partners in the private securitysector at European level felt that it wasextremely important to have a basic trainingtool for health and safety, which iscommon to all EU countries and whichcomplements the European VocationalTraining Manual for Basic Guarding.GeneralintroductionThis manual is the result of a studyinvolving several European countries.It is the outcome of research carriedout in close co-operation with socialpartners in the private security sector,which was intended to determine thenature of occupational hazards in thesector. This study involved questioningthe main players in the sector: employers,workers, prevention representatives andconsultants, etc. This manual containsessential information for understandingthe risks you face in doing your joband the methods for preventing them ordealing with their consequences.Focusing on risks and risk factors mightgive a negative impression of the privatesecurity sector, or rather, an impressionwhich is more negative than the actualreality. This is why we feel it useful to pointout that work can also be a source ofwellbeing and empowerment.This manual is common to all the countriesof the European Union and is thereforebased on the minimum requirementsset out in the European laws known as“directives”, which all member states mustrespect. This means that, on certain points,the laws in your country may provide foradditional measures, but, whatever thecase may be, the requirements in thismanual must be observed (1).In this manual we will be referring to“security guards”. This term, though, doesnot express the same idea in the differentcountries of the European Union. Wehave based ourselves on the definitionof security guard given in the EuropeanVocational Training Manual for BasicGuarding.“Any person who is paid a wage, fee orsalary to perform one or more of the of thefollowing functions:– Prevention or detection of intrusion,unauthorized entry or activity,vandalism or trespassing on privateproperty.– Prevention or detection of theft, loss,embezzlement, misappropriation orconcealment of merchandise, money,bonds, stocks, notes, valuablesdocuments or papers.– Protection of individuals from bodilyharm.– Adherence to, and enforcementof, established company rules,regulations, measures, policies andpractices related to crime reduction.– The reporting and apprehension ofviolators.– Reporting on incidents and calls”.This manual has been compiled by theCentre de Sociologie de la Santé (C.S.S.)of the Université Libre de Bruxelles. Theproject has been carried out with thecollaboration and under the supervisionof social dialogue partners from theprivate security sector (CoESS, employersand UNI-Europa, trade unions) and theDirectorate-General for Employmentand Social Affairs from the EuropeanCommission.(1) For each of the points raised the reader willfind a reference to the relevant Europeandirectives, which is indicated by thissymbol:Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector 5

The adverse effects that work canhave on health have serious consequencesin terms of human andeconomic cost, not just for workersand their families but also for companiesand society as a whole. To deal withthese effects the European Union hasdeveloped a legal framework to preventrisks and promote health and safety atwork.European legislation obliges companiesto implement social policy focused onhuman beings as individuals in orderto improve the wellbeing of workers asthey do their jobs. The cornerstone of allrequirements in the area of risk preventionin the workplace is something calledthe framework directive. This directiveprovides a reference basis for a seriesof specific directives which cover all therisks related to health and safety in theworkplace. Among other things, it setsforth the obligations of employers andworkers with a view to improving healthand safety in the workplace.PREVENTION AND PROTECTION AT WORK: RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS— THE EMPLOYER— THE WORKERS— THE CLIENT (PRINCIPAL)7

Prevention and protection at work: rights and obligationsTHE EMPLOYERThe employer is obliged to guarantee thehealth and safety of workers in all aspectsrelated to the job and nothing can relievethe employer of this responsibility.As part of these responsibilities, theemployer must take the necessary precautionsto protect the health and safetyof workers, including action to preventoccupational hazards, informing andtraining staff, and setting up the necessaryorganizational structure and meansto achieve these aims. The employermust modify these measures to take intoaccount changes in circumstances andmust try to improve existing situations.1 Preventing risks.GENERAL OBLIGATIONS OF EMPLOYERS2 Evaluating the risks which cannot be prevented.3 Combating risks at source.4 Adapting work to the individual– Making sure that the structure of jobs, organization, the choice ofequipment, substances and procedures alleviate the monotony of the jobto be carried out with a view to reducing ill effects on health.5 Taking into account technical developments (e.g. ergonomic machinery,tools and appliances).6 Replacing what is hazardous by what is not hazardous, or by what isless hazardous.7 Planning risk prevention by taking into account technology, organizationof work, working conditions, social relationships and the influence of factorsrelated to the working environment.8 Giving collective protective measures priority over individual protectivemeasures.9 Giving appropriate instructions to workers to guarantee their health andsafety at work.THE DIFFERENT OBLIGATIONS OF YOUR EMPLOYERYour employer must :A Conduct a risk evaluation for health and safety at work.B Determine what protection measures are to be taken and, if necessary, whatkind of protective equipment is to be used.C Maintain a register of accidents at work which have led to a period ofincapacity for work of longer than three working days.D Draw up reports on accidents at work suffered by the firm’s workers.8 Relevant directive: 89/391/CEE Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Prevention and protection at work: rights and obligationsTHE WORKERSOn your side, too, you have a greatresponsibility in terms of protecting yourhealth and safety, as well as that of yourco-workers and other people involved inyour activities and professional tasks. So,you should take care of yourself and ofothers in accordance with the training andinstructions you have received from youremployer. It is important for you to collaborateactively in your company’s healthand safety policy.The framework directive covers other generalprinciples concerning the information,consultation and participation of workers,training workers and their representatives,medical supervision and general guidelinesfor implementing these principles(see pages 52 to 55).You must :WORKERS’ OBLIGATIONSA Correctly use machinery, appliances, tools, transport equipment, etc.B Correctly use personal protective equipment supplied to you.C Not remove the safety devices for specific machinery and installationsand you must use them correctly.D Report immediately to your employer and/or supervisors about any worksituation posing a serious and immediate danger to health and safetyand about any shortcomings in protection arrangements.E Perform all tasks set forth by safety regulations and cooperate with theemployer to ensure a working environment and conditions that do not poseany risks in terms of health and safety.THE CLIENT (THE PRINCIPAL)The client must take appropriate measuresso that employers of workers from anyexternal security undertakings engagedin work in his or her company receive,in accordance with national laws and/orpractices, adequate information concerninghealth and safety risks and concerningprotective and preventive measuresand actions for both the company and/orestablishment in general and every kind ofpost and/or position in said undertaking.The client must ensure that workers fromsecurity firms engaged in work in his orher company and/or establishment havein fact received appropriate instructionsregarding health and safety risks duringtheir activities with the client company.COOPERATION AND CONSULTATION BETWEEN EMPLOYERS(client – guarding services company)When workers of several companies are operating in the sameworkplace, employers must :A Co-operate in implementing health, safety and occupational hygieneprovisions, taking into account the nature of the activities.B Co-ordinate their actions in matters of protection from, and prevention of,occupational hazards.C Inform each other of these risks.D Inform their respective workers and/or workers’ representatives of theserisks.Prevention and protection at work: rights and obligations 9

The privatesecurity sector

The reasons for expansion in the privatesecurity sector are well known:an increase in a feeling of insecurityin society as a whole, resulting in ademand for security on the part of companies,public institutions and privateindividuals, and, above all, the processof outsourcing security operations whichwere previously performed by the publicsector or public administration. At thesame time as this process of expansion,efforts have been made to professionalizethe sector further and there has beengreater concern about improving workingconditions, particularly in the areaof occupational hazard prevention. Anyimprovements made to health and safetyrequire action at three levels.1 – At sector level. At this level, it isimportant to take into account all ofthe elements that make up the social,economic, legal, etc. context in whichthe private security activity is developing.These include, in no particular order,those to do with the job and workingtime, access to the profession within thesector, competition between clients (principals)and security companies, trainingand information for security personnel inrisk prevention, presence of trade unionsin companies and at sector level, etc.2 – At company level in the broadsense of the term, i.e. as a networkincorporating workers of different statusfrom different organizations.At this level, it is a question of considering,amongst other things, risk preventionmechanisms and company policyin the areas of risk prevention, humanresources management, training, conflictmanagement, communication, etc.3 – At the level of organizationalrestrictions imposed in the workplaceitself. How is the team managed?What is the working atmospherelike? How much independence do theworkers enjoy? Does the client fulfil his orher responsibilities in terms of health andsafety in the workplace? etc.Given that this manual is intended aboveall for company workers, risk preventionrepresentatives and security managers,it focuses on the company or businessitself and the different kinds of assignments.However, it is essential to keepin mind the wider context of the privatesecurity sector. We would also like tostress certain general sector characteristicswhich have an effect on the healthand safety of workers and which requirepreventive measures to be adoptedthroughout the sector. Such measuresrequire, on the one hand, prior dialoguein companies or between the sector’ssocial partners, and, on the other, actionat institutional and political levels.THE PRIVATE SECURITY SECTORA sector characterized by service relationships and service provisionA highly competitive sectorA sector characterized by “flexibility”A sector which is still undervalued11

The private security sectorA SECTOR CHARACTERIZED BYSERVICE RELATIONSHIPS ANDSERVICE PROVISIONThe private security sector is characterizedby subcontracting. Today, an increasingnumber of companies tend to subcontractsecurity activities. The nature of thisservice relationship is definitive in analysingrisk prevention problems. Involving theclient in risk prevention policy is essentialif occupational hazards are to be tackled.From this perspective, any measureintended to oblige clients to assumeresponsibilities in terms of risk preventionshould be encouraged.A HIGHLY COMPETITIVE SECTORCompetition in the sector is known to bevery tough. Contracts for private securityservices are often awarded to the cheapestoffer (‘the lowest bid’) rather than tothe best offer (‘the best bid’), i.e. the oneguaranteeing a high quality service andgood working conditions, as well as compliancewith collective agreements, labourlaws and obligations and responsibilitiesin terms of risk prevention and health atwork. The unfair competition which isbecoming apparent during the awardingof contracts damages the image ofthe sector (amateurism, illegal practices,etc.) and has a negative impact on thehealth and safety of workers. It is formallycondemned by the social partners, whohave published a manual (1) on awardingcontracts in order to prevent it from happening.(1) Choosing the best quality/price ratio. A manualfor public authorities awarding contracts forguarding services, CoESS - UNI-Europa 1999(www.securebestvalue.org).12 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

The private security sectorA SECTOR CHARACTERIZED BY“FLEXIBILITY”A SECTOR WHICH IS STILLUNDERVALUEDThe private security sector is characterizedby the flexible way in which the workis organized. This kind of organization wasadopted in order to provide 24-hour a day,7-day a week services and to meet thevaried requests made by sector clients.This flexibility can be observed at differentlevels:– Flexibility in the number of employees,which is linked to the ability of companiesto vary the number of workers theyemploy depending on fluctuations indemand– Flexibility in working time (such as nonstandardforms of working time, nightand weekend shifts, overtime, standby)– Flexibility in terms of the tasks to beperformed by workers, who have to beable at all times to adapt to the needsof companies and clients in order tocomply with varied and unpredictabledemands. Companies increasingly relyon their workers showing initiative.Guarding companies in general and securityguards in particular help to makepublic places secure and contribute to thecreation of a safer society so that publicand private freedoms can be enjoyedwithout constraints. This contribution,though, is not always fully appreciated.This under-valuing of the sector reflectsa certain degree of ignorance and lackof recognition of the work carried outby security companies and their staff,which can have negative implications forthe image of the sector and therefore forthe professional identity of its workers.For the sector to receive the recognitionit deserves, initiatives could be taken toraise awareness of the social role playedby private security and thus project a betterimage of the sector.Thus, whether it is because of the workinghours, the type of contract or the typeof service that is required of the workers,it is clear that the sector is a highly flexibleone. This has a major impact on thebiological and social rhythms and familysituations of private security guards andleads to considerable mental and emotionalstrain.The private security sector 13

Risks andrisk factorsin privatesecurity

In compiling this manual, wedecided to restrict ourselvesto setting out risks [*] neutrallywithout attempting to classifythem in terms of seriousness. Theaim of the manual here is to:– inform you (and raise yourawareness) about the risks yourun in doing your job– help you to identify the hazardswhich you are exposed to– inform you about preventivemeasures to be adopted– inform you about the consequencesand negative effectson health and safety if theserisks become realities.The list of risks in this manualdoes not include all the riskswhich exist. Other risks may wellbe determined as a result ofthe risk assessment procedureswhich your company must carryout regularly. The frameworkdirective makes risk assessmenta necessary tool for ensuring thesafety and protecting the healthof workers. It must be structuredand implemented in sucha way as to help employers todetermine what hazards exist andevaluate the risks associated withthese hazards in order to decidewhich measures to adopt to protectthe health and guarantee thesafety of their employees.The aim of preventionis not just to preventaccidents but also anyfactor harmful to healthresulting from work.We chose to divide security-relatedrisks into three broad categories:1. Risks resulting from thegeneral situation2. Specific risks related tosecurity activities3. Risks related to the postheld.We chose to use a very generalway to present the risks. Basedon the three categories mentionedabove, for each one wehave specified whether the riskconcerns all types of securityguards or certain specific activities.Risks are always presented, withoutexception, in the same way.Firstly, there is a brief introductionabout the nature of the risk. Thenthere is an analysis of the risk factorsinvolved and a presentationof risk prevention measures to beadopted by the actor involved:client, employer or worker. Finally,there is an explanation of whateffect it would have if the riskbecame a reality.The risks are, in theory, dealt withon an equal footing: none is givenmore importance than anothereven if some of them concernonly a very limited number ofguards or represent a low accidentor health risk.Some risks are only brieflydescribed whilst more attentionis devoted to others because oftheir greater complexity.[*] Definition. Risk can bedefined as the probability (potentiality)of a certain level of damage,taking into account exposure to arisk factor and the probabilityof damage occurring during theexposure period.RISKS AND RISK FACTORS IN PRIVATE SECURITY1. RISKS RESULTING FROM THE GENERAL SITUATION 162. SPECIFIC RISKS RELATED TO SECURITY ACTIVITIES 17A. Violence at work (physical attack, bullying, sexual harassment) 17B. Risks posed by dogs 21C. Handling weapons 22D. Risks related to exposure to radiation 23E. Risk factors related to work organization 24F. The physical workload 27G. The psychosocial workload 31H. Specific risks facing female security personnel 373. RISKS RELATED TO THE POST HELD 38A. Safety risks 381. Risk of falls, slips and trips 392. Risk of collisions, bumps and jamming 403. Risk of road accidents 414. Risk of electrical accidents 425. Risk of fire 43B. Risks related to the working environment 441. Physical hazards 452. Biological hazards 483. Chemical hazards 4915

1. Risks resulting from the general situation1. Risks resultingfrom the generalsituationBy risks resulting from the generalsituation, we mean the risks linked tothe context in which security activityis carried out. Hence, the referencesphere is the sector, its main actors(security company, client) and therelationships between them.Here we are taking into account therisks associated with the operationsof the security company carried outwithin the client company (the principal).SECURITY COMPANY OPERATIONSWITHIN THE CLIENT COMPANYThese are mainly interference risks, additionalrisks on top of those risks inherentin the activity of each company and theyare due to the installations, equipmentand activities of various companies in thesame workplace.When workers from different companiesare involved in the same working environment,working relationships becomemore complex and may complicate thecoordination of activities. This may resultin disorganization, with everything thisentails in terms of accidents and confusionconcerning the tasks to be executed,etc. In these kinds of circumstances,efforts must therefore be made at companylevel in order to share informationand to reach an agreement on respectiveduties and responsibilities.RISK FACTORSPREVENTIVE MEASURESEFFECTS ON HEALTHThis interference riskensues from a lack ofknowledge at two levels:lack of knowledge ofone company regardingthe risks of theother companylack of knowledge relatedto joint activity andjoint operations.Your employer and the client must :Cooperate in implementing health, safety andoccupational hygiene provisions.Coordinate their actions in matters of protectionfrom, and prevention of, occupational hazards.Inform each other of these risks.Inform their respective workers and/or workers’representatives of these risks.You must :Take care of yourself and of others inaccordance with the training and instructionsyou have received from your employer and/orfrom the client.Collaborate actively in the health and safetypolicy in your company.The interference risk is basically an accidentrisk linked to the operations of thesecurity company carried out within theclient company. However, it also constitutesa possible factor of uncertainty,tension and stress for security guardsto the extent that they find themselvesin working situations/contexts in whichthey have no knowledge of the risksresulting from these situations, of thepreventive measures to be adopted,or of the responsibilities of the peoplethey deal with.16 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

2. Specific risks related to security activities2. Specific risksrelated to securityactivitiesBy the term “risks specific to securityactivities”, what we mean are those risksthat are often called “inherent risks” orrisks specifically linked to the activity and/or organization of work in companies.Given the diversity of security activity andservices, some of the risks mentionedaffect all private security staff, while othersonly affect a few highly specific posts.Risks which are specific to security activitiesare divided into the following categories:A. Violence at work.B. Risks posed by dogs.C. Handling weapons.D. Exposure to radiation.E. Risk factors related to workorganization.F. The physical workload.G. The psychosocial workload.H. Specific risks facing female securitypersonnel.A. VIOLENCE AT WORKViolence in the workplace may come inmany guises:– verbal violence: insults, threats– physical violence: being struck or beinginjured– by weapons or by giving theimpression of being armed– discrimination on the grounds of race,skin colour, ethnic origin, sex, religionor sexual orientation– sexual harassment– bullying– …Risks and risk factors in private security 17

Specific risks related to security activitiesRISK OF PHYSICAL ATTACKFor obvious reasons, there is ahigh risk of physical aggressionin the sector, even if it is difficultto assess how probable or dangerousthis risk is in advance.Indeed, there is a wide rangeof situations in which acts ofphysical aggression are committedagainst security guards.The magnitude of the problemis confirmed by several studieswhich list security personnelas being among the occupationalgroups most likely to beexposed to acts of physicalaggression.These attacks constitute anoccupational hazard and thusaffect all security guards.However, some jobs are saidto be more exposed to physicalviolence than others, for instance,those that involve contactwith the public: surveillance ofshopping centres, or areas witha high through-flow of people(underground stations, railwaystations, etc.), detection of shoplifting,etc.RISK FACTORSSome characteristicsof the workplace:isolated, very busy(communication hubs,shopping centres),without a securitysystem, etc.Possibilities forimmediate or veryquick communicationwith other people(colleagues, police, yourcompany, etc.).The nature of the jobor post: lone working,night/day shifts, contactwith the public, etc.The assailant(s)(delinquents, clients,service users, etc.):number, physicalfeatures, the fact thatthey may be under theinfluence of alcoholor drugs, the level ofaggressiveness andviolence, whether or notthey are armed, etc.The security guard:training and experiencein dealing with thesekinds of situations, his/her reactions, excess/lack of confidence, etc.Your employer must :PREVENTIVE MEASURESTake into account all existing security measures (codeddoors, bolting entries, etc.).Ensure that quick communication is possible if a problemarises (telephone, radio, alarm buttons, etc.).Keep the number of lone workers to a minimum and, ifthis proves impossible, make sure that the employee hasa means of constant contact with the central office.Train staff in handling conflict situations: training in theearly detection of potential assailants (identifying patternsof behaviour and signs of a possible attack), conflict managementtraining (learning how to deal with difficult situationsinvolving clients and service users, and learning howto cope with the tension related to such situations with aview to controlling any emotional reactions).Your employer ought to consider :Not leaving a guard who has been a victim of, or witnessto, a violent act alone in the period following the incidentand, if necessary, providing them with psychological help.Training some workers in listening and providing supportto staff members who have been physically attacked.…You must :Follow the instructions and training you have been given.Not expose yourself to danger recklessly. Act cautiously.Assess the situation properly before taking action andabove all avoid playing down the risks of any actiontaken.Communicate as quickly as possible the correct andaccurate nature of any situation. (location, circumstance,etc.) which is out of the ordinary or potentially dangerous.Make sure that your communication equipment is alwaysin good working order and within easy reach.…EFFECTS ON VICTIMSThe nature and seriousness of injuries can vary considerably depending on the nature of theattack:Light injuries: superficial lesions, blows and light traumas (bruises, scratches, etc.).Serious injuries: serious traumas and injuries requiring surgery or resulting in possible lossof life.Death.In addition to these injuries, physical attacks may also have other negative effects on workers’health:reduced psychological wellbeing and increased risk of psychological problemscognitive effects, such as concentration problemslow self-esteemlack of job satisfaction and motivationfeelings of fearpost-traumatic stress.18 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Specific risks related to security activitiesRISK OF SEXUAL HARASSMENTSexual harassment refers to “the situationin which unwanted behaviour witha sexual connotation, expressed physically,verbally or non-verbally, occurs withan aim or effect which is harmful to thepersonal dignity of an individual and,more specifically, creates an intimidating,hostile, degrading, humiliating or insultingenvironment.”Companies are becomingly increasinglyaware of sexual harassment in the workplace.There is a prevalent belief which does notcorrespond to reality: that victims of sexualharassment are always women. It is truethat sexual harassment is a phenomenonwhich predominantly affects women, butmen can also be victims of this kind ofharassment.Furthermore, a range of studies carried outinto sexual harassment in EU countries alltend to show that sexual harassment ismore common in professions where asingle gender dominates (whether it bemen or women) than it is in those wherethere is a balanced proportion of menand women. As the security sector is atypically male sector, sexual harassmentcould well turn out to be a considerablerisk for female security guards.EFFECTS ON HEALTHOn a psychological level, sexual harassmentmay result in stress, anxiety,depression, a state of nervousness,feelings of despair, impotence, anger,etc. The physical effects of sexualharassment involve sleeping and eatingdisorders, headaches, nausea,high blood pressure - in fact, all thesymptoms commonly associated withstress.Risks and risk factors in private security Relevant directive : 2002/73/CE 19

Specific risks related to security activitiesRISK OF BULLYINGBullying in the workplace is taken to mean“abnormal, repeated behaviour directedagainst a worker or group of workerswhich results in a risk to health and safety.(…) which may manifest itself throughverbal as well as physical aggression, butalso through more subtle acts, such asunderrating an employee’s work or isolatingthe individual socially.” (1).As far as bullying in the workplace isconcerned, there are two very frequentlyencountered excesses that must be prevented:1. Interpreting every conflict in theworkplace between co-workers,between a staff member and his orher superior, between a guard andthe client, etc. as an act of bullying…There are numerous definitions of bullyingbut all of them contain three dimensionsthat serve to distinguish bullying from anyother type of violence in the workplace:– the repeated and sustained nature ofthe acts– the impact, which is always negative,devastating and destructive, on theperson targeted– the perpetrator’s (or perpetrators’) wishto cause harm.Some attitudes and types of behaviour(such as authoritarian attitudes and shouting,etc.) do not constitute bullying if theirroot cause is not spite or if they are notregularly repeated. However, given thatthey can also poison the atmosphereat work, they are also to be prohibited.Moreover, these kinds of attitudes caneasily develop into bullying.This distinction is important because thefact of being considered as being bulliedor not has very different implications interms of the law and how the victim isdealt with.2. Only analysing potential casesof bullying in individual terms, interms of incompatibilities betweenpeople or groups of people.It is perfectly possible that a disagreementor misunderstanding between people is atthe origin of the bullying but more oftenthan not its cause is rooted in othercircumstances. Numerous studies havedemonstrated that there is a correlationbetween bullying and certain organizationalfeatures specific to the company inquestion. The risk factors which can leadto bullying could include:– possible areas of doubt regardingtasks to be performed in a work setupbased on flexibility– bad working atmosphere, conflictsbetween co-workers withoutmeasures being taken to remedy thesituation– confusion/conflicts in terms ofhierarchic responsibilities– authoritarian management style– dehumanised management andsocial relations– bad relationship betweenmanagement and workers– failings in staff management policies– …It should be remembered that whateverthe cause of bullying, it is up to the companyto find a solution. On no accountshould it refrain from acting.EFFECTS ON HEALTHBullying, amongst other effects onhealth, may result in stress, depression,loss of self-esteem, feelings of guilt,phobias, sleep and eating disorders,etc. The consequences of theseconditions can range from depressionto suicide and include addiction topharmaceutical drugs.(1) European Agency for Health and Safety inthe Workplace, Bullying at work, Factsheet23.Your employer must:Send a clear message to potentialperpetrators and victims: violence, inwhatever form, will not be acceptedor tolerated.Specify the obligations of thehierarchy in preventing possiblesituations of this kindInvestigate the facts quickly andimpartially.Make sure that complaints do notlead to reprisals.Maintain the anonymity of bothvictims and perpetrators.Inform and train workers regardingthe risks and preventive measures tobe adopted.…PREVENTIVE MEASURES FOR BULLYING AND SEXUAL HARASSMENTYour employer ought to consider:Appointing one or more trustworthypeople to provide “front line” contactin dealing with, and providingsupport for, the victims.Setting up mechanisms to deal withvictims and to reintegrate them in theworkplace.You must:Communicate immediately that youfind a situation or type of behaviourunacceptable.Not let problems develop.Speak openly about the problemwith the colleagues that you workwith.Maintain a critical distance (do nottry to find reasons to justify the wayyou are being treated).Inform the personnel or humanresources manager/ the preventionrepresentative.If you are not the only personinvolved, request that yourcompany’s managers carry out aninquiry and take steps to find asolution.…20 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Specific risks related to security activitiesB. RISKS POSED BY DOGSUsing dogs can represent a health hazardfor dog handlers.The use of dogs entails risks of accidents(bites, etc.) as well as biological riskslinked to exposure to biological agents,i.e. microorganisms that may cause infections,allergies or poisoning. These microorganismsmay penetrate the human bodythrough a wound or mucous membranes,or following an animal bite. They may alsobe inhaled or swallowed.The risks resulting from the use of dogsare peculiar to the sector and mainly affectdog handlers, as well as security guardsthat are part of teams that use dogs.RISK FACTORSPREVENTIVE MEASURESNATURE OF INJURIESThe dog: badly trained,too aggressive, sick,unpredictable behaviour.Bad dog handling:several dog handlersfor one and the samedog, different commandpatterns dependingon the individual’s role,poor living conditions,food and monitoring ofthe health of the animal(vaccinations, regularmedical check-ups).The dog-handler:untrained or poorlytrained as a dog handler,lack of compliance withbasic hygiene regulations,lack of care for the dog,aggressive or unsuitablebehaviour towards thedog.Your employer must :Make sure that dog handlers have done the compulsory trainingand have the necessary certificates.Ensure that the dogs are properly trained.Replace dogs that are no longer suitable (either because theyhave become too aggressive or because their performance isbelow par).Ensure the dogs are housed and fed properly (clean and wellkeptkennels).Ensure that all the vaccination and hygiene requirements aremet.Make sure that if dogs are to be used by several dog handlers,measures are taken to ensure that only one set of commoncommands is used with the dog.…You must :Follow the instructions and training you have been given.Respect the regulations on using leashes and muzzles.Protect any wounds or injuries you have to prevent microorganismsfrom penetrating your body.Respect basic hygiene conditions: no eating, drinking orsmoking without washing your hands first.Take good care of the dog and behave properly with it.Inform your employer about any incidences of unpredictablebehaviour or any other factor concerning the dog which couldendanger your health or safety or that of others.…Dogs can cause slightinjuries such as lesions,light traumas (scratches,bruises) and serious injuriessuch as bites, etc.They may also causediseases as a result ofinfections and allergiescaused by bacteria,fungi, acarids and/orviruses.Risks and risk factors in private security Relevant directive : 90/679/CEE 21

Specific risks related to security activitiesWARNING SIGNSLaser beamRadioactive materialD. RISKS RELATED TO EXPOSURETO RADIATIONThe use of equipment which generatesradiation or working in areas close toradiation sources entails a risk of tissuebeing destroyed and/or irreversible effectson health. The risk level varies accordingto the dose of radiation absorbed.This risk is specific to certain jobs whereX-ray machines are used: access control(airports, public buildings, etc.), or thescreening of mail, packages, suitcases,etc. However, it also affects guards who,during their rounds in hospitals, nuclearpower plants, etc. may enter monitored orsecure areas.[*][*] Definition.Secure area : area subject to specialregulations intended to provide protection fromradiation and to limit radioactive contamination.Access to these areas is regulated.Monitored areas : area subject to suitablesurveillance in order to provide protection fromradiation.RISK FACTORSPREVENTIVE MEASURESNATURE OF INJURIESScanners - X-raydevices: faultydevices, inappropriateuse.Certain highly specificworkplaces, e.g. inhospitals (radiology,nuclear medicinedepartments), nuclearpower plants, etc.The security guard: amember of staff whois not trained in theuse of X-ray machinesand/or is not familiarwith the risks he orshe is running; oris not aware of thedangers involved inentering monitored/secure areas, nor thepreventive measuresto be adopted.Your employer must :Train you to use X-ray machines and inform you of the risksand preventive measures to be taken.Ensure that these types of machines are only operated bytrained personnel.Place the instruction manual as well as any documentationrelating to the use of the machine in close proximity to it.Have the sources monitored (to prevent leaks).Use type-approved machines (marked CE) or make sure thatthe machines being used comply with European regulations.Make sure that the equipment goes through its periodicaltechnical inspection.…The client must :Inform you and your employer about any radiaton sources atthe place of work, about the risks associated with them andthe preventive measures to be adopted.You must :Avoid putting your hands into the radiation tunnel.Communicate any anomaly in the functioning of the machine toyour superiors.When on duty in the radiological area you must observe theappropriate precautions and measures.Respect the warning signs situated in monitored/secure areas.Observe the indications given when moving about monitored/secure areas.…The effects of radiationcan be hereditary (i.e.they may be passed onto your children and tosubsequent generations).Over a certain radiationthreshold, there may beshort-term effects relatingto cell lesions: the tissuemost vulnerable to radiationis reproductive tissue(radiation can lead totemporary or permanentsterility), tissue involvedin the forming of bloodcells (spleen, bone marrow,etc.), the crystallinelens in the eye and theskin. Unexpected effectsmay also occur within agroup of individuals withidentical exposure levelswithout it being possibleto identify a threshold;these involve cancers andcertain genetic anomalies(mutations).Risks and risk factors in private security Relevant directive : 96/29/Euratom 23

Specific risks related to security activitiesE. RISK FACTORS RELATED TOWORK ORGANIZATIONThis involves health and safety hazardsresulting from the way work is organized,whether at company or job level.— The dual hierarchy— Lone working— Work schedules— Human resources management— Training and information in riskprevention— Working time.THE DUAL HIERARCHYPrivate security guards are in a rather specialsituation because they carry out theirwork at the client’s premises. As suchthey must respect a sort of dual hierarchy:on the one hand, they have to meetthe professional demands made on themby their employer and, on the other, theyhave to meet the demands of their clients.In principle, the duties and obligations ofthose involved (the client, the employer,the security guard) are clearly delineated.However, in the field, the subcontractingrelationship may result in each party’sroles, duties and responsibilities becomingblurred. This can lead to tension andmay cause considerable stress for securityguards.The employer ought to consider:– Clarifying the roles, obligations andresponsibilities of the employer, the clientand the worker– Improving communication, strengtheningthe presence and social support ofthe company for its workers.LONE WORKINGAlthough lone working is not prohibitedunder the European directives, it shouldin principle be subject to a prior riskassessment. If in the course of the riskassessment, it transpires that the securityguard’s health and safety cannot be guaranteed,lone working should be avoided.If, conversely, the assessment reveals thatit is possible, the security guard must begiven all the necessary guarantees that heor she will be able to do the job in safetyand without health hazards.PREVENTIVE MEASURESYour employer must :Make sure that lone workers can get intouch with someone quickly.Guarantee regular supervision.Inform the worker about the risks he orshe may have to face.Make sure that workers are properlytrained so that they can react satisfactorilyto unforeseen circumstances.Ensure that consultation with the clientcompany takes place at the time of therisk assessment so that all the risksinvolved in lone working are clearlyidentified.…You must :Be able to notify somebody else rapidly(your company, the client company, thepolice).Make sure that your communicationequipment is always in good workingorder and within easy reach.Inform your supervisor about anythingwhich might entail a danger for health andsafety.…HAZARDS OF LONE WORKINGAttacks.Accidents or sickness whichmight require immediatehelp to be administered.Inability to react correctlyin emergency situations,unforeseen circumstancesand cases of physicalattack.24 Relevant directives : 89/391/CEE I 93/104/CEE I 2003/88/CEE Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Specific risks related to security activitiesWORK SCHEDULESIn a sector like the security sector whichis based on flexibility it is sometimes difficult(in certain jobs / activities) to providework schedules several months or weeksin advance. This problem is exacerbated byabsenteeism and other unknown organizationalfactors or unforeseen circumstances.Employers ought to try to devise and implementwork schedule management mechanismswhich allow security staff to organizetheir private lives better and/or to makearrangements for changes in duty rosterssufficiently in advance.HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGEMENTHuman resources management and organizationalculture may vary greatly from onecountry to the next, or from one companyto the next (e.g. small- and medium-sizedcompanies vs. multinational corporations).There is, however, a common characteristic:communication between private securitystaff and their hierarchy superiors is oftenlimited. The lack of direct contact may haveimplications on the quality of the communicationprocess and on the transfer of informationand it could also increase the guard’sfeeling of isolation.The employer ought to consider:– Promoting a management style whichtakes more account of the opinions andcomplaints of workers so that they feelintegrated and part of the company– Encouraging the kind of social contact andsupport which workers so often request inthe inspectors and supervisors (intermediatehierarchy) since these people havemore contact with workers.TRAINING AND INFORMATION IN RISKPREVENTIONThe lack of information about existingrisks at your place of work and a lackof information necessary for carrying outyour job can be the cause of accidentsat work and occupational illness, both foryou and for others.PREVENTIVE MEASURESYour employer must :Inform you about the risks.Inform you about protective andpreventive measures and activitiesconcerning both the establishmentwhere you are going to work andthe job or function which you aregoing to have.Provide you with sufficient suitableinformation for your health andsafety.Provide training which isspecifically geared towards the jobyou are to do or the function youare to carry out.Provide you with training when:– you are hired– your functions adapt or change– changes occur in the equipmentyou work with– new technologies areintroduced.You must :As far as you are able, take careof your own health and safety inaddition to that of people involvedin your actions or your professionaltasks, in accordance with thetraining and instructions you havereceived from your employer.WORKING TIMETime spent at work in the private securitysector is atypical: night and weekendwork, shift work[*], long working daysand heavy weekly, monthly or overtimeworkloads.The following are some of the effects ofworking hours on workers’ health:Eating disorders, sleepingdisorders and fatigueA human being’s biological functions followa cycle of approximately twenty-fourhours. This cycle is called the circadiancycle or the biorhythm. Shift work andnight work are the cause of a whole seriesof harmful effects as both imply a lag inthe cycle:– Changes in eating patterns; differentmealtimes, often with a drop in thequality of the food - cold meals (sandwiches),fast eating, or not eating atregular times, etc. All of these result ina nutritional imbalance, digestive disordersand increased occurrence of obesity– Alterations to sleeping patterns: disturbedsleeping patterns, drop in thequality of sleep (noise, lights), andthe number of hours’ sleep is oftenreduced– A reduction in recuperation time, whichresults in the individual being tired moreoften– Difficulties in remaining awake on thejob, which results in an increased risk ofcommitting mistakes and thus becomingthe victim/cause of accidents.[*] Definition.Shift work : any method of organizing teamwork in which the workers take over successivelyfrom one another in the same activityfollowing a specific pattern, including shiftrotation, which can be continuous or not. Thismeans that a worker must do shifts at differenttimes over a specific period of days or weeks.Risks and risk factors in private security 25

Specific risks related to security activitiesF. THE PHYSICAL WORKLOADThese risks are general risks which affectall security guards, irrespective of the kindof job they do.The risk factors related to the physicalworkload are primarily linked to:A. Moving from place to placeB. Shift work, night workC. Forced or unsuitable workingposturesWorking postures often bring about physicalfatigue and/or bodily harm: injuriesand lesions (resulting from being stuck,crushed or bumping into objects), fracturesand especially back pain, and painsand discomfort in lower limbs (legs, feet).A. MOVING FROM PLACE TO PLACEMoving around, especially on foot, as partof surveillance rounds may also constitutea significant physical strain, particularly inview of the distances to be covered, thefeatures of the site to be inspected, andthe time allotted for rounds and breaks.B. SHIFT WORK AND NIGHT WORKTo the extent that shift work and nightwork have an impact on breaks, eatingpatterns and sleeping patterns, theyalso, directly or indirectly, determine thephysical workload of the job (see pages25-26).C. POSTURE AT WORKAs far as working postures are concerned,those which cause the greatestproblems are:– seated posture– a normal standing posture– postures involved in the physicalhandling of loads.Generally, guards tend to change postureregularly but in some jobs they spendmost of their day in the same position– either standing or sitting.Risks and risk factors in private security 27

Specific risks related to security activitiesSeated posturesSeated postures are the most frequentones in activities involving observingscreens or monitors as is the case insecurity control centres, alarm controlcentres and certain access control posts.These activities involve not only ergonomicrisk, but also risks for the sight andmental workload problems.RISK FACTORSPREVENTIVE MEASURESEFFECTS ON HEALTHThe size of the work area:too small, not enoughspace for your legs, etc.Unsuitable basic workingequipment (chair, table,footrest, hand-rests).Work organization: thetasks to be done, the timeallotted for each of them,resting times, etc., areall elements which maydetermine the frequencyand duration of certainworking postures.General and/or specificlighting (work lamps)which does not provideenough light or a suitablecontrast between thescreen being used and theenvironment.The security guard:bad working habits (notadjusting equipment to hisor her body features, etc.),bad posture habits (slightlybent back, working withthe hands on differentsurfaces, twisting thetorso sideways, etc.).Your employer must :Train you and inform you of the risks related to postureinvolved in seated jobs.Provide you with a good quality screen (which can betilted and swivelled; the image on the screen shouldbe stable and should not flicker or be unstable in anyother way; the screen should not cause reflections orreverberations which might irritate the user).Provide you with an adjustable keyboard with a mattsurface and sufficiently contrasted and legible keys.Provide you with a stable chair guaranteeing thenecessary mobility for the job at hand, with adjustableseat height.Ensure there is enough space to allow changes inposition and a certain freedom of movement.Arrange the work area so that sources of light (windows,transparent screens, etc.) do not directly blind the userand cause the least possible amount of reflection on thescreen.…You must :Reduce the risk of bad posture habits.Improve your level of comfort by making sure there isenough space for your legs.Make sure that the work surface you are using is at theright height.Ensure that the screen is perpendicular to the windows.Arrange the items to be operated and/or used within anaccessible workspace.Ensure that the top of the screen is at eye level.Keep the screen clean.Take regular breaks with a change in activity/posture ifpossible.Do exercises during breaks in order to enhance bloodcirculation.…Prolonged periods of workingwhile sitting down maycause muscular pain in theupper part of the back, theshoulders, arms, etc. Thiscan be linked to a bad positionin front of screens ormonitors and can also leadto awkward movements,trapped nerves, etc.This kind of seated workingenvironment is oftenlinked to problems relatingto sedentary work (lowerback pains, blood circulationdisorders in the legs)and to obesity. However,it can also cause eyestrainand other sight problemsbecause often the work iscarried out in front of monitoringscreens.28 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Specific risks related to security activitiesStanding posturesStanding postures are frequent in accesscontrol and static surveillance activities.Standing is a natural posture for humansand so, in theory, does not pose any specifichealth problems. However, systematicallyworking in an upright position for considerablelengths of time may result in healthproblems for the workers in question.RISK FACTORSPREVENTIVE MEASURESEFFECTS ON HEALTHWork organization(break times, numberof breaks, tasks to beperformed, etc.).The worker: badposture habits, etc.The floor covering: e.g.metal or cement floors.Your employer must :Train you and inform you of the risks related to postureinvolved in working standing up.Ensure that workers have adequate rest periods.…You must :Change posture frequently in order not to spend a long timein the same position.Not remain in a given position too long without moving.Ensure you have good working posture by observing thenatural shape of the spine:– lean back slightly– head raised, with the neck straight– abdomen slightly in, not tensed, with the abdominalmuscles slightly contracted.Do exercises during breaks in order to enhance bloodcirculation.Wear adequate footwear (shoes that do not modify theshape of the foot in any way, which keep the heel in place,allow the toes to move freely, and are comfortable, etc.).…The fact of regularly workingstanding up may resultin painful feet, swelling ofthe legs, varicose veins,lower back pains, stiffnessin the neck and shouldermuscles and joints, a generalmuscular fatigue aswell as other health problems.It may even bringabout a long-term degenerationof the tendons andligaments.Risks and risk factors in private security 29

Specific risks related to security activitiesManual handling of loadsAccording to the European directivewhich sets the minimum health and safetyrequirements for manual handling of loads“manual handling of loads means anyactivity involving transporting or supportinga load by one or several workers…”.These are general risks which involve alltypes of activity but particularly affect surveillancerounds.When making his or her rounds, the guardshould check and make sure that thefacilities and equipment are in good workingorder in order to prevent any accidentsat work. They should also make sure thatpassageways and floors are clear and freefrom obstacles. As part of this activity aguard may have to move and/or lift loads.The risks associated with manual handlingof loads are mainly to do with the back.RISK FACTORSThe nature of the load: too heavy,too big, cumbersome, difficult tograsp, unstable, etc.The physical effort required:excessive effort requiring a twistingof the torso or bringing about asudden movement of the load,etc.The surroundings: not enoughspace to move around, uneven orunstable ground surface, etc.The requirements of the task:excessive distances to lift, lower ormove the load, involving physicalefforts that put a strain on thespinal column, etc.The worker: a worker who isphysically incapable of performingthe task in question, unsuitableclothing, shoes or other personalbelongings carried by the worker,etc.PREVENTIVE MEASURESYour employer must :Make sure that workers areproperly trained and given preciseinformation concerning the correctway to handle loads and therisks they may run if they do notperform these kinds of operationsfollowing the correct procedure.…You must :Keep your back straight, bendfrom the knees and use your legsto take the strain.Stand with your legs slightly apart.Hold the object firmly, in bothhands.Pick up the object with your armsstretched downwards, as close aspossible to your body.Avoid turning your body whenlifting, carrying and putting downobjects.Move your feet to turn.…EFFECTS ON HEALTHManual handling of loads may constitutea risk of injury and, in somecircumstances, occupational illnessesresulting from physical strain, beingcrushed, bumps and bad posture.They are very often at the origin of backproblems or pains.30 Relevant directive : 90/269/CEE Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Specific risks related to security activitiesG. THE PSYCHOSOCIAL WORKLOADThe psychosocial workload is a generalconcept comprising several facets. In thismanual we shall focus primarily on:1. Motivation and satisfaction at work2. Occupational stress3. Mental workload4. Emotional workload1. MOTIVATION AND SATISFACTIONAT WORKJob satisfaction and motivation are relatedto the fulfilment of a number of psychosocialcriteria:Criteria unrelated to the taskbeing performedThe fulfilment of criteria like job security,favourable working conditions, equitablepay, etc. can enhance workers’ feelingsof job satisfaction. On the other hand,factors like lack of job security, difficultworking conditions, pay that is consideredto be insufficient and which requiresindividuals to do overtime in order to havewhat they consider to be decent income,limited promotion possibilities, difficultiesin reconciling work with family commitments,etc. are all elements that can contributeto dissatisfaction and to a generalnegative feeling at work.Criteria related to the taskbeing performedIn order for workers to feel motivated, fulfillingthe criteria above is a necessary preconditionbut it is not enough in itself. It isequally necessary for workers to be giventhe opportunity to learn, to improve theirprofessional skills and to take initiatives atwork. Whilst these conditions do exist forsome jobs or activities within the sector,it is far from being the case for others,such as those in which workers feel thatthey are doing a monotonous, routine jobwhich is neither stimulating nor rewarding.This can lead to demotivation.PREVENTIVE MEASURESEFFECTS ON HEALTHYour employer must :Ensure that collective agreements andworkers’ economic and social rights arerespected.The employer ought to consider :Improving workers’ prospects bydrawing up career plans which combinequalifications and progress in the job.Promoting ongoing training, especially inline with developments in security sectorprofessions.Introducing changes in jobs in order todiversify tasks/activities and to ensurethat they make sense to the workers.Promoting job rotation.…Job satisfaction and motivationhave an impact on the workers’wellbeing and on their physicaland mental health. The inverserelationship between motivationand tiredness is well known, forexample. Carrying out a task withoutmuch motivation can quicklylead to symptoms of tiredness.Conversely, if motivation is hightiredness may not be felt until ithas reached a high level (sometimeseven bordering on exhaustion).So, the threshold for feelingtired is highly dependent on themotivation of workers and theenergy they are prepared to muster.Job satisfaction and motivationcan thus be powerful factorsin building up health.Risks and risk factors in private security 31

Specific risks related to security activitiesTHE EFFECTS OF STRESS ON HEALTHIn general, stress is linked to a higher degree of absenteeism and greater chancesof accidents in workers and to a drop in their level of performance. It also affectscompanies: drops in productivity, deterioration in the atmosphere at work, increasedstaff turnover, more accidents.Stress shows itself in different ways and to differing degrees. They are often interlinked.Manifestations of stress can be classified in four groups according to whetherthey are physiological, behavioural, emotional or cognitive.Other sources of stress are analysed inother parts of this manual:– The dual hierarchy(page 24)– Excess/insufficient mental workloads(page 35)– Working hours(pages 25-26)– Difficulties in reconciling professionallife with private life(page 26)– Lone working(page 24)– The nature of the physical workingenvironment (noise, low temperatures,etc.)(pages 44 to 47)– The physical workload(pages 27 to 30)– Working with the public (clients,service users, etc.)(page 36)– Bullying, sexual harassment(pages 19 to 20)– …It has to be remembered that there arepersonal and interpersonal factors whichcan increase the risk of stress at work(training, financial and family situation,social isolation. etc.).Physiological manifestations– Heart problems– Muscle pain– Back problems or pains– Insomnia– Headaches– Sleeping problems– Digestion problems– Sexual problems– Weaknesses in the immunesystem– …Cognitive manifestations– Memory problems– Concentration difficulties– Indecisiveness– Errors in judgement– …Emotional manifestations– Fear– Anxiety– Panic attacks– Nervousness– Depression– Frustration– Problems of self-esteem– …Behavioural manifestations– Heavy smoking– Alcoholism– Social isolation– Family break-ups– Dietary problems– Absenteeism– …34 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Specific risks related to security activities3. MENTAL WORKLOADMental workload denotes all of the tensionsexperienced by workers which arespecific to the mental demands of the job(perception and processing of information,cognitive processes involved in memorization,reasoning, problem-solving, etc.).Mental workload can vary from one typeof job to another because of:– the requirements of the task– the physical working conditions (noise,lighting, climatic conditions, etc.) (seepages 44 to 47)– social and organizational factors(monitoring, supervision andcommunication structures in thecompany, atmosphere at work, etc.)(see pages 24 to 26)– …In terms of task requirements, informationprocessing tasks require the followingfrom the security guard:– attention– concentration. Take, for instance,security staff who have to focus theirattention on screens or monitors(security centres, alarm centres, etc.)for long periods.– coordination. Sometimes attentionmust be focused on several elements/people at the same time in order tobe able to react quickly to somethingunexpected or to solve a problem. Thisimplies converting several pieces ofinformation into a course of action.The mental workload of tasks to be performedalso depends on other factorssuch as:– the guard’s responsibility vis-à-vis coworkers,the client– duration of the activity (working hours,breaks)– danger (possible assaults, etc.).Within the sector, different activities/jobsrequire highly different kinds of mentaleffort. For instance, in certain access controljobs, guards have to identify dozens ofindividuals an hour, answer the telephone,concentrate on the surveillance monitors,take decisions quickly (without having allthe necessary information), give a goodimpression, etc. All of these tasks involveprocessing of a great deal of informationand triggering of cognitive processes suchas reasoning, problem-solving, understanding,interpretation, etc. This can leadto mental overload.The opposite kind of problem can alsooccur. There are certain night jobs wherethe guard has to monitor the client’spremises alone; the workload is, in theory,far less demanding and, sometimes notvery stimulating. This “insufficient mentalworkload” may have just as many negativeeffects on health as excess mental workload.When the activity or task requireslittle or no mental effort, security staff haveto make an effort to remain attentive andawake and to concentrate. These situationsor activities may result in drowsiness,a drop in vigilance and a reduction in theability to react, which is a side-effect ofmonotony.Your employer must :PREVENTIVE MEASURESTrain you and inform you about the risks in terms of mental workload, as well aspreventive measures to be adopted.Analyse the demands in terms of mental workload of each post/activity as well as thephysical, social and organizational conditions in which the task is performed.Adapt the way in which the work is done, taking your experiences and skills into account.Make sure that the design of workplaces and organization reduce monotony at work.Reshape the job content by making the activity/task more stimulating.Provide breaks to allow you to recover after hard periods of work.You must :Act according to the information and training you have been given.Try, if possible, to plan and organize the work you have to avoid mental overload.EFFECTS ON HEALTHSituations of excessive orinsufficient mental workloadcan have a negative impact onhealth: tension, stress, senseof monotony, mental fatigue,general tiredness, etc. Mentaland nervous fatigue are generallyassociated with shorttermabsenteeism (tiredness,muscular pains, headaches,digestion problems). They canalso have an effect on theworker’s emotional state (irritability,sadness) and behaviour(alcohol abuse and or/smoking,aggressiveness, etc.).Furthermore, eating well, moderate physical exercise and resting properly can all help you tocope with the tiredness and tension that the mental workload can cause.Risks and risk factors in private security 35

Specific risks related to security activities4. EMOTIONAL WORKLOADEmotional workload relates to the emotionalreactions experienced when workingin circumstances and conditionswhich are less than ideal or perceived asunsuitable.In some jobs (access monitoring, surveillanceof public places, etc.) the securityguard’s work is above all “relational work”i.e. work involving interaction with otherpeople. In their contact with the publicthey have to be constantly accessible,constantly use polite language, alwaysproject a professional image, have apleasant and polite manner, be friendlywithout being too informal, efficient butnot overzealous, etc.This constant need to make “a goodimpression” and to “keep the right distance”with the person you are dealingwith is not something which comes naturallyto everyone. It can lead to tensionwhen the guard is confronted by clients,service users and people who are abusive,aggressive and rude. He or she mustkeep calm (and sometimes smile) – i.e.send a contradictory double message tothe body: the first message is to preparethe body to respond to hostility and thesecond is to prevent it from reactingimmediately.This “relational” aspect of the job thereforerequires control over the emotions(emotional behaviour skills), i.e. comprehension,assessment and managementof your own emotions as well as those ofothers. This can entail a very significantemotional workload, which is often minimizedbut can have a major impact on theworker’s wellbeing.Your employer must :PREVENTIVE MEASURESTrain you in “emotional behaviour” (awareness of the role of emotions in anindividual’s working life, understanding and controlling your own emotionalreactions on the job, adapting the way you communicate to the emotionalclimate specific to each situation, etc.).Inform you of the risks related to the emotional and relational sides of the joband the preventive measures to be adopted.Analyse the demands in terms of emotional workload of each job/activity as wellas the physical, social and organizational conditions in which the work is done.Adapt the work system to you by taking your experiences and skills intoaccount.Provide you with social and psychological support when you are subjected to aconsiderable emotional workload.…You must :Follow the training, information and instructions you have been given.…36 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Specific risks related to security activitiesH. SPECIFIC RISKS FACING FEMALESECURITY PERSONNELIn this traditionally male sector, femalesecurity guards are in a minority. The proportionof women varies from one countryto another, but rarely exceeds 20%. Wethought it important to devote a separatesection to them for two main reasons:– because of a certain gender-baseddivision in the work in the sectorWhilst women are to be found in allactivities within the sector, there tends tobe a higher proportion of them in placeslike large stores, reception areas and injobs where superficial body searchesare necessary, such as in airports. Mostof these jobs require constant contactwith the public. Women are thereforemore at risk of physical and verbalviolence, stress and problems related tothe emotional side of the work.– because they are a minority in atraditionally male sectorBoth workplaces and risk preventionpolicies must adapt to women joiningthe sector. Changes in the followingare of particular importance:– Changing rooms and toiletfacilities. Separate changingrooms and toilet facilities (orseparate use) must be providedfor men and women.– Work clothes. Work clothesmodified for pregnancy must beprovided.– Maternity care.The fact that women are a minorityin a sector which is largely male alsoincreases the probability that they willsuffer sexual harassment. Studies showthat sexual harassment is more prevalentin predominantly male professions thanin those where the proportion of menand women is more balanced.It is important for the specific risksto which female guards are exposedto be taken into consideration duringrisk assessments and when settingcompany prevention policies.MATERNITY CAREThe nature, degree and duration of exposureof pregnant workers (or those whohave recently given birth, or those whoare breast-feeding) to any activity likelyto pose a specific physical risk (handlingloads, movements and postures, movingfrom place to place, mental and physicaltiredness) or exposure to biological andchemical substances must be evaluatedby the employer in order to:determine any health and safety riskor any possible effect on pregnancy orbreast-feeding.determine which measures to adopt.If the assessment shows that there is arisk for health and safety or an effect onpregnancy or breast-feeding, the employermust take the necessary steps, throughtemporary modifications in the workingconditions and/or work schedules of theworker concerned, to prevent exposure tothe risk or risks in question. If that is notpossible, the employer must make provisionsfor a change in post. If such a changeis not possible, the worker (in accordancewith national practice and legislation) mustbe released from work obligations for therequired period of time.Risks and risk factors in private security Relevant directive : 92/85/CEE 37

3. Risks related to the post held3. Risks related tothe post heldBy risks related to the job or post heldwe mean risks resulting from the physicalenvironment in which the work is carriedout. Insofar as security guards often workat the client’s premises, these risks arerelated to the activities and installationsof the client. These risks are less specificto security activities, but even so they arestill just as dangerous or frequent asthe others mentioned. In fact, accidentstatistics show that risks like falls, slips,getting stuck and road accidents are veryfrequent in this sector.Risks resulting from the job or post heldare divided into the following categories:A. Safety risksB. Risks related to the workingenvironment.A. SAFETY RISKSThere are numerous safety-related riskfactors and it is vital that security staff bewell aware of them, for their own personalsafety and physical wellbeing as well asthose of others.The safety-related hazards are as follows:1. Risk of falls, slips and trips2. Risk of collisions, bumps andjamming3. Risk of road accidents4. Risk of electrical accidents5. Risk of fireAs far as the safety-related risks areconcerned, there is a series of generalpreventive measures which apply toall circumstances and which are theresponsibility of security staff:– Inspection of the premises– Identification of potential risks– Implementing suitable preventivemeasures– Communication of any irregularity oraccident to those in charge.38 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Risks related to the post held1. RISK OF FALL, SLIPS AND TRIPSA significant number of occupational accidentsare related to moving around theclient company’s premises, either insideor outside the buildings. These are mainlyfalls on the same level and those from aheight.WARNING SIGNS – PROHIBITIONWARNING SIGNS – DANGERThis is a general risk which mainly affectsstatic surveillance, rounds and surveillancepatrols.Pedestrian access prohibitedDanger of trippingDanger of dropINTERVENING FACTORSPREVENTIVE MEASURESThe state of the floors: slippery floors (as aresult of cleaning products, climatic conditions),naturally slippery surfaces (tiled or marble floors),irregular or uneven surfaces (steps, pavement,sloping surface), damaged surfaces (holes, looseflagstones), etc.Permanent or temporary obstacles: cables,machines, assorted objects (boxes, tools,machines, furniture), etc.Insufficient lighting (especially in stairwells andpassageways), meaning that slippery surfaces orobjects causing obstructions cannot be seen.Badly lit stairs, with no ramp, too steep, withbroken or slippery steps.Bad or even nonexistent signposting ofdangerous areas (junctions, uneven areas,passages, etc.).Unsuitable shoes (open shoes, flat soles), shoesthat are worn out or dirty.Emergency situations: when the guard has torun in the course of an operation, etc.The security guard: running without reason,doing rounds without switching on the lightsbecause of overconfidence or familiarity with thebuilding, taking shortcuts or using unauthorizedpassageways or those that are not suitable for use.NATURE OF INJURIESThe injuries caused by falls, slips and trips may vary agreat deal: fractures, wounds, sprains, contusions, etc.Your employer must :Inform you about risks of slips, trips and falls at your place ofwork.Make safety shoes available, if necessary, after the riskassessment is carried out.…The client must :Install warning indicators (signs, floor markings, etc.) whenthe risk of trips and falls cannot be prevented through othermeasures.Provide sufficient lighting (especially in stairwells andpassageways).Install and maintain measures designed to counter the risk offalls (handrails, railings).Inform you and/or your employer about risks of slips, trips andfalls.…You must :Make sure that you carry out a visual inspection of work areasin order to identify the potential hazards of falls and slips.Check that the anti-fall fittings and protective measures are ingood condition.Keep passageways and surfaces free from obstacles.Respect warning signs.Use the appropriate access ways.Use the lights in passageways.Use torches.Wear suitable shoes with anti-slip soles, if necessary,depending on the risk assessmentAct in a level-headed fashion even in case of an emergency.Point out any irregularity or situation that does not comply withthe relevant regulations.…Risks and risk factors in private security 39

Risks related to the post held2. RISK OF COLLISIONS, BUMPS ANDJAMMINGCollisions, bumps and jamming involvefixed objects (idle machinery, tools, furniture,etc.), or moving objects (machinesplaced in passageways, vehicles, etc.).This is a general risk which mainly affectsstatic surveillance, rounds and surveillancepatrols.WARNING SIGNS - PROHIBITIONMaintenance vehicles prohibitedWARNING SIGNS – DANGERMaintenance vehiclesRISK FACTORSCramped working space (toosmall, bad arrangement offurniture, etc.).Passageways that are toonarrow or cluttered withdiscarded objects or permanentfixtures (furniture).Sliding and automatic doors.Machines, motorized vehicles(poor marking of circulationareas), vehicles with no meansof warning or indicating (sound,lights, etc.).Manual handling of loads.Emergency situations: when theguard has to run in the courseof an operation, etcThe security guard: runningwithout reason, doing roundswithout switching on lightsbecause of overconfidenceor familiarity with the building,taking shortcuts or usingunauthorized passageways orthose that are not suitable foruse.NATURE OF INJURIESThe injuries resulting from collisions,bumps and getting jammed can varygreatly: fractures, wounds, sprains,contusions, etc.PREVENTIVE MEASURESYour employer must :Inform you about the risks ofcollisions, bumps and jamming at yourplace of work.Make PPE - personal protectiveequipment - (safety shoes, etc.)available, if necessary, after the riskassessment is carried out.…The client must :Install warning indicators when therisk of collisions, bumps and gettingjammed cannot be prevented throughother measures.Provide sufficient lighting (especially instairwells and passageways).Organize the circulation of people andvehicles properly.Inform you and/or your employerabout risks of collision, bumps andgetting jammed.…You must :Make sure that you carry out a visualinspection of work areas in orderto identify the potential hazards ofcollisions, bumps and jamming.Arrange your work space in thebest possible way in order to ensuresufficient freedom of movement.Not perform any tasks which are notyour responsibility or which you havenot been trained for.Keep passageways clear and uselights.Point out any irregularity or situationthat does not comply with the relevantregulations.…WARNING SIGNS - OBLIGATIONSProtective footwear must be wornProtective headgear must be wornPedestrians must use this walkwayProtective gloves must be wornProtective bodywear must be worn40 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Risks related to the post held3. RISK OF ROAD ACCIDENTSWork-related road accidents include accidentswhile out on an assignment, i.e.when on the road because of the job, oraccidents taking place on the journey fromhome to the workplace. Sector statisticsfor accidents at work show that there is aconsiderable risk in this area.This is a general risk which affects allsecurity staff going to work in a vehicleand also a specific risk in certain surveillanceactivities: patrols, interventions followingan alarm.RISK FACTORSPREVENTIVE MEASURESNATURE OF INJURIESVehicles in a poorstate of repair.The environment: badweather conditions,night-time driving, poorvisibility, traffic.The situation: timeconstraints orlimitations.The driver.Your employer must :Make sure that vehicles are in a good state of repair.Regularly service vehicles.Have the necessary equipment for breakdowns (warningtriangles, tools for changing wheels, etc.).Organize staff movements properly (timetables, journey times,routes, weather conditions, etc.).Make allowances for unforeseen traffic conditions whendrawing up work schedules.Check regularly on the medical suitability of security staff.…You must :Not drive under the effects of alcohol/drugs/medicine.Not drive while using the telephone or any other means ofcommunication (except if the car is fitted with a hands-free kit).Observe the highway code, speed limits, signs, etc.…The nature and seriousnessof any injuries mayvary considerably dependingon the nature of theaccident.Light injuries: superficiallesions, lightknocks and traumas.Serious injuries: serioustraumas andwounds, etc.Death.Risks and risk factors in private security 41

Risks related to the post held4. RISK OF ELECTRICAL ACCIDENTSThe risk of an electrical accident is oftenthe result of faulty machinery or equipment,faulty electrical wiring or carelessuse. Electrical accidents can also causeother accidents, fires and/or explosions.This is a general hazard which affects allsecurity activities.WARNING SIGNS – DANGERElectrical dangerRISK FACTORSPREVENTIVE MEASURESNATURE OF INJURIESDamaged cables withbare conducting wire.Plugs or extensionleads in poorcondition orincorrectly used.Plugs or socketswithout earthingterminals.Poorly isolated orprotected machinesor material.Use of electricalappliances orhandling of livesockets that are incontact with water orwith wet hands.Your employer must :Inform you about the electrical risks at your place of work.…The client must :Make sure that the electrical system is safe.Inform you and/or your employer about the electrical risks atyour place of work.…You must :Check that electrical devices are in good condition beforeusing them.Check the state of cables, extension leads and plugs.Not unplug equipment by pulling the cable. Pull on the plugitself while holding the wall socket in the other hand.Never touch a switch, socket or electrical appliance with wethands.Not carry out any kind of DIY work. Never attempt to repairor replace a faulty cable.Not overload circuits by connecting several plugs to thesame socket.Only use sockets and plugs that are fully compatible.…Electrical hazards can havedangerous consequenceslike:Electric shock: electricaldischarge received bythe body which resultsin a tetanization of themuscles, which maycause the victim to fall.Electrocution: an electricshock resulting in deathas a result of cardiacarrest.Skin burns affecting theareas that have been incontact with the electricalcurrent.The seriousness of injuries islinked to other factors suchas the intensity of the electricaldischarge, the lengthof contact, the individual’scapacity to react, etc.42 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Risks related to the post held5. RISK OF FIREThe tasks of security staff include fire preventionand detection. Security guards aretherefore supposed to have acquired acertain amount of basic knowledge aboutfires in the course of their training: theirsources, common causes of fires, basicprinciples of fire and combustion, ways inwhich fire spreads, types of fire accordingto the surface burning as well as measuresto be taken in order to fight fires.FIRE FIGHTING SIGNSTelephone for firefightingWARNING SIGNS – DANGERFire hose Ladder Fire extinguisher Route to firefighting materialFire hazards are a general risk whichaffects all activities in the sector, butespecially surveillance activities, roundsand patrols.Flammablematerial or hightemperaturesExplosive materialCombustiblematerialWARNING SIGNS - PROHIBITIONNo smokingNaked flamesprohibited and nosmokingDo not extinguishwith waterRISK FACTORSCombustible products and substances: accumulationof gas due to a lack of ventilation,improper storage of combustible products ormaterials, heat sources in close proximity tocombustible products, etc.Poor state of electrical installations and appliances.Certain work areas where flammable materials,combustible substances or explosives arestored, etc.Overheated machines or equipment.Lack of maintenance of working areas andmaterials: full dustbins, oil or petrol on theground, etc.Lack or poor state of fire-detection systemsand alarms.Fire extinguishers which are missing, in apoor state, badly placed, lacking in number,inadequate for the combustibles that arepresent in the work place, poor indication ofthe location of extinguishers, etc.Cluttered staircases and exits.Bad (or inexistent) indication of emergencyexits.Carelessness: presence of smokers, basicprecautions not taken when carrying out certainactivities (welding, drilling, etc.).The security guard: poor knowledge of thebuilding, misunderstanding of fire procedures,poor training (lack of knowledge of fire extinguishers,the way they work), etc.Your employer must :PREVENTIVE MEASURESInform you about fire hazards at your place ofwork.…The client must :Make sure that the electrical system is safe.Inform you and/or your employer about fire risksat your place of work (presence of explosive orflammable materials, etc., presence of sourcesof flames or sparks, etc.).Set up and comply with fire fighting measures(signs concerning fire fighting material orequipment and, if necessary, fire detectors andalarm systems).…You must :Prevent the combination of the three basicelements of fire: fuel, oxygen and heat.Search immediately for sources of leaks of oil orany other flammable liquid.Remove work clothes or any other flammableobjects from heating devices and replace anymissing fireguards.Remove any flammable objects that are placedin close proximity to a heat source and put themin a safe place.Respect the no-smoking signs.…EFFECTS ON HEALTHThe main dangers of fireare toxic smoke and fumeswhich may result in asphyxiaor carbon monoxide poisoning.There is also a high riskof burns from fire. There arethree degrees of burn:First degree burns whichaffect the surface of theskin: red skin, scalding,swelling.Second degree burns,which are characterizedby blisters filled withliquid.Third degree burns,which involve thecomplete burning of theskin, which becomesdark brown, with blackstripes and which is nolonger painful.Burns are an injury like anyother; it is therefore necessaryto make sure that atetanus vaccination is valid orhas been given.Fires may also result indeath.Risks and risk factors in private security Relevant directive : 92/58/CEE 43

Risks related to the post heldB. RISKS RELATED TO THEWORKING ENVIRONMENTThis category is to do with the effects ofexposure to:1. Physical hazards such as noise orcold2. Chemical hazards such as gas andother dangerous products3. Biological hazards such asmicroorganisms and cell cultures.Most of these risks are not inherent inguarding activities but they are connectedwith the activities of the client company orwith the nature and characteristics of itsinstallations.Minimum requirements forworkplacesThe following requirements must be met inorder to guarantee a healthy, safe workingenvironment for security staff:– A sufficient quantity of healthy air.– An adequate temperature; neither toohigh nor too low.– Sufficient natural light and/ormechanisms ensuring adequateartificial lighting.– Separate changing areas or separateuse of changing areas for men andwomen.– Separate toilet facilities or separate useof toilet facilities for men and women.– The presence of signs relating to safetyand/or health in the workplace.– A safe electrical system;– Measures to fight fires and, ifnecessary, fire detectors and alarmsystems.– Doors that can be opened from theinside without special assistance beingrequired.– Mechanical doors and gates that canbe operated without posing a risk ofaccidents.– Sufficient artificial lighting in outdoorworking areas when natural light isinsufficient.– If workers are assigned to outdoorposts, they should, as much aspossible, be kitted out in such a wayso as to ensure that they:• are protected against the elementsand, if necessary, falling objects• are not exposed to harmful noiselevels nor to harmful outdoorconditions (e.g. from gases, fumes,dust)• can quickly leave their post incase of danger and can be quicklyrescued• are not likely to slip or fall.The fact you are employees of a differentcompany from the one you are assignedto in no way diminishes your basic rightsto a working environment which takes intoaccount the things mentioned above.RESPECTIVE RESPONSIBILITIESYour employer must :Inform you about the risks related toyour place of work.Cooperate with the client companyto make sure that you work in awell-ventilated, safe workplace withenough natural and artificial light.…The client must :Cooperate with your employer toguarantee your health, safety andwellbeing at your place of work.Ensure that you have in fact receivedappropriate instructions regardinghealth and safety risks during youractivities at the company’s premises.Ensure that technical maintenanceof workplaces and their differentfacilities and installations is carriedout and that regular maintenancechecks and monitoring of thefunctioning of security mechanismsis done.Provide for or guarantee that healthand/or safety at work signs arepresent where risks cannot beprevented or sufficiently limitedusing collective, protective technicalmeans or through measures,methods and procedures of workorganization.…You must :Respect and act according to theinstructions, information and trainingyou have been given.Point out any irregularity to thosein charge with regard to your workenvironment.…44 Relevant directive : 89/654/CEE Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Risks related to the post held1. PHYSICAL HAZARDSPhysical hazards such as noise, heat,cold, a lack of light, inadequate humidity,bad ventilation and possible exposure toradiation must also be taken into considerationin any risk assessment exercisesince they are the cause of accidents,diseases and various kinds of discomfort.NoiseNoise is a habitual factor in the workplace.Although most of the time thereis no risk of loss of hearing, it can causeconsiderable hearing damage.Noise is a general hazard which affectsall sector activities.WARNING SIGNS - OBLIGATIONSHearing protection is compulsoryRISK FACTORSAmbient noise in the workplace(noise of the building’sinstallations, noise of machinery,office equipment, noise causedby human beings, crowds, etc.).The worker’s attitude to noise: ifthe worker is not happy at work,he or she will be more sensitiveto noise or, in any case, perceiveit as a source of annoyance.The task: the noise will be all themore disturbing if it interfereswith the job or if the job is verycomplex.Detonation of ammunition duringshooting practice.PREVENTIVE MEASURESYour employer must :Identify the source(s) of the noise.Limit or reduce noise at source.Promote working habits andbehaviour that are not noisy.Provide you with personalprotective equipment (earplugsand/or a helmet for shootingpractice, for example).…You must :Adopt working habits andbehaviour that are not noisy.Use PPE (personal protectiveequipment) if necessary andmake sure you use it correctly.Point out any defect ordiscomfort of the PPE.Notify those in charge aboutany noise irregularities in theworkplace.EFFECTS ON HEALTHThe effects of noise on human hearingdepend on the noise level and onthe duration of exposure. The effectsof noise can be highly diverse. This iswhy it is difficult to predict the impactit may have on an individual or a groupof people. The most common effectsinclude physiological (headaches,loss of hearing or even deafness) oreven psychological impairment (lossof concentration, nervousness).…Risks and risk factors in private security 45

Risks related to the post heldUnsuitable levels ofventilation, humidity andtemperatureThe risks related to unsuitable levels oftemperature, humidity or ventilation aregeneral risks which affect all activities ofthe sector.Whether for inside a building or foroutdoor jobs, certain minimum conditionsin terms of temperature, humidity andventilation must be observed. Theseconditions must be fulfilled taking intoaccount the specific nature of the job orassignment, the level of physical activityrequired and the security guard’s workclothing.RISK FACTORSLack of healthy air.Unsuitable levels of temperature,humidity and air circulation.Working in bad weatherconditions, when it is extremelyhot or extremely cold.Work arrangements that donot provide protection from thecold or heat (shelter, heating,access to cold drinking water,etc.) or exposure to unsuitabletemperatures for excessively longperiods.The security guard: inappropriatework clothing, etc.PREVENTIVE MEASURESYour employer must :Provide, if necessary, airconditioning, ventilation anddehumidification of the air.Ensure that there is a sufficientsupply of fresh air in enclosedwork spaces.Protect workers operating in badweather conditions.Organize the work schedule insuch a way that heat stroke orhypothermia are avoided.Provide you with suitable workclothing: thick trousers, longsleevedshirts and/or jacketand anorak (or the equivalent)in winter, and light trousers andshort-sleeved shirt in summer.EFFECTS ON HEALTHThe unsuitable conditions we havejust listed can cause a variety ofannnoyances and forms of discomfort:drowsiness, colds.In an environment in which thetemperature is very high, the securityguard runs the risk of dehydration,sunstroke, fainting and skin or hearttroubles.In very low temperatures, the dangersfacing a security guard includehypothermia, redness of the skin inthe most sensitive areas of the body(fingers, toes, nose and earlobes).You must :Compensate salt loss in the bodyby drinking water frequently.Wear appropriate work clothing.…46 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

Emergencyfirst aid

European legislation (the frameworkdirective) sets out (as we have seenin pages 7 to 9) the obligationsof employers and workers toimprove health and safety at work, butit also includes other general principlesconcerning:— Protection and prevention services— First aid, fire fighting, evacuationprocedures— Situations of serious and immediatedanger— Consultation and participation ofworkers— Health and safety information forworkers— Health and safety training for workers— Medical supervision of workers.GENERAL ORGANIZATION OF HEALTH AND SAFETY IN COMPANIES53

General organization of health and safety in companiesPROTECTION AND PREVENTIONSERVICESThe employer must appoint one or severalworkers responsible for protection againstand prevention of occupational hazards.There must be enough of these workersand they must have the necessary time toperform their duties. When the companydoes not have the necessary skills toorganize protection and prevention activities,the employer must resort to externalexperts (individuals or services).FIRST AID, FIRE FIGHTING,EVACUATION PROCEDURESThe employer must take all the necessaryfire fighting and evacuation stepsnecessary, in keeping with the kind ofactivities and size of the company and/orpremises. The employer must organizethe necessary contact channels withexternal services, particularly in terms offirst aid, emergency medical assistance,rescue procedures and fire fighting.The employer must appoint workersresponsible for implementing measureson first aid, fire fighting and evacuationprocedures. There must be enough ofthese workers, they must be trained andthey must have enough suitable materialavailable.ORGANIZATION OF CONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION OF WORKERSOn issues related to health and safety at work, the employer must:— consult with the workers and/or their representatives— respect their right to make suggestions— arrange for balanced participation of workers in the measures to be taken.Consultation/participation of workers or their health and safety representativesmust be sought on:A any action which might have considerable consequences for health and safetyB the appointment of workers responsible for protection from, and preventionof, occupational hazards and their activities in matters of protection from, andprevention of, occupational hazardsC the appointment of workers responsible for:— protection and prevention activities— first aid— fire fighting and staff evacuation proceduresD use and nature of information on risk assessment for health and safety atwork issuesE the need to resort to external experts (when the company does not have thenecessary in-house skills)F the design and organization of health and safety training for all workers.NB : 1. The workers and/or their representatives have the right to request that their employer takesuitable measures and the right to submit proposals to him or her in order to reduce any riskfaced by workers and/or eliminate sources of risk.2. The employer is expected to grant workers’ health and safety representatives the necessarytime, without loss of salary, to carry out their responsibilities using the necessary means.3. Workers and/or their representatives can resort to the relevant competent body if theyfeel that the measures taken and the means used by their employer are not sufficient toguarantee their health and safety at work.SITUATIONS OF SERIOUS AND IMMEDIATE DANGERThe employer must take the necessarymeasures and give instructions so that, incase of serious, immediate danger whichcannot be avoided, workers may ceasetheir activities and/or go to a safe place byimmediately leaving their workplace.Employers must make sure that any workerfaced with a serious and immediatedanger to his or her safety and/or that ofothers in a situation in which it is impossibleto contact the relevant superior cantake suitable steps to prevent the consequencesof such a danger.54 Relevant directive : 89/391/CEE Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

General organization of health and safety in companiesCONSULTATION AND PARTICIPATION OF WORKERSEmployers must consult you and/or yourrepresentatives and thus allow you to participatein all issues regarding health andsafety in the workplace.HEALTH AND SAFETY INFORMATION FOR WORKERSIn order to be able to work in completesafety and/or in the right conditions for yourhealth, you need to be properly informed. Itis the employer’s obligation to inform youdirectly (or through your representatives)about the occupational hazards related toyour activity.INFORMATION FOR WORKERSInformation provided to workers must include:A Health and safety risks, but also all the measures adopted by the company todeal with these risks in each type of job, assignment or function:B Measures adopted and staff members appointed:— for first aid— for fire fighting and staff evacuation procedures.NB : The employer must provide both the worker responsible for safety issues and workers’representatives with all the information necessary for in-house risk analysis and also allow accessto accident reports intended for the competent bodies.HEALTH AND SAFETY TRAINING FOR WORKERSYou must receive sufficient and suitabletraining in health and safety which takesinto account your post and role in the company’soperations. The right training willallow you to prevent risks associated withthe profession.SAFETY TRAINING FOR WORKERSHealth and safety at work training will take place when:— you are hired— your functions adapt or change— there are changes in the equipment you work with— new technologies are introduced.Furthermore, training must be adapted to changes in risks and the emergence of newrisks and must be renewed at regular intervals, if necessary.This training must:— be free for workers and their representatives— take place during working time, either externally or within the company (inaccordance with national practice).MEDICAL SUPERVISION OF WORKERSAccording to European legislation (theframework directive), measures must beset in conformity with national legislationand/or practices to ensure appropriatesupervision of the health of workers,depending on the risks relating to theirhealth and safety in the workplace. Thesemeasures must be such that each workermust be entitled, if he or she so wishes,to have a medical check-up at regularintervals.General organization of health and safety in companies 55

Europeandirectives

Europeandirectives86/188/CEE Protecting workers against noiseexposure risks while at work.89/391/CEE Implementing measures to improve thehealth and safety of workers (frameworkdirective).89/392/CEE Approximation of member states’legislation on machines.89/655/CEE Minimum health and safetyrequirements for workers using workequipment at work.89/656/CEE Minimum health and safetyrequirements for workers using personalprotective equipment at work.89/686/CEE Approximation of member states’legislation on personal protectiveequipment.90/269/CEE Minimum health and safetyrequirements for manual handling of loadswhere there is a risk particularly of backinjury to workers.90/270/CEE Minimum safety and healthrequirements for work with display screenequipment.92/58/CEE Minimum requirements for the provisionof health and/or safety signs at work.92/85/CEE Introduction of measures to encourageimprovements in the health and safety atwork of pregnant workers and workerswho have recently given birth or arebreastfeeding.93/104/CEE Directive concerning certain aspects ofthe organization of working time.96/29/Directive Euratom of the Council of13 May 1996 laying down basic safetystandards for the protection of the health ofworkers and the general public against thedangers arising from radiation.98/24/CEE Protection of the health and safety ofworkers from the risks related to chemicalagents at work.2002/73/CEE Principle of equal treatment formen and women as regards access toemployment, vocational training andpromotion, and working conditions.2003/88/CEE Directive concerning certain aspectsof the organization of working time.90/679/CEE Protection of workers from risks relatedto exposure to biological agents at work.57

UsefuladdressesEuropean Confederation of Security Services (CoESS)25, Avenue Reine Fabiola, 1780 Wemmel, BelgiumE-mail : apeg-bvbo @ i-b-s.be – www.coess.orgUNI-Europa 31, rue de l’Hôpital, 1000 Brussels - BelgiumE-mail : uni-europa@union-network.org - www.uni-europa.org58 Preventing occupational hazards in the private security sector

UNIVERSITÉ LIBRE DE BRUXELLESCentre de Sociologie de la SantéThis manual was produced thanks to European Community financing.The author is sole responsible for this publication and the contents do not necessarilyreflect the opinion of the European Commission.September 2004