Mary: I don’t feel that there is a lot of difference between the work of male and female security guards- we all work with the same SOP. When we cannot handle certain situations where physical efforts are required our male colleagues are always there to help us.
Priyanka: Although our work is almost the same as male guards, we get a certain relaxation- we only have to work for 10 hours whereas they have to work 12 hours.
Vashanthi: That is true, we may not be as physically strong as the male security guards, but our work is quite similar and our management is very considerate of this fact.
Sudha Rani: Male and female security guards play important roles and we often require and receive support from our male counterparts to manage certain uncontrollable situations.
What is the most challenging aspect of being a security guard?
Priyanka: We deal with different types of people every day and sometimes it becomes very difficult to convey security protocols when some visitors are not cooperative.
Sudha Rani: We often have to confront and manage conflicts, which can include handling aggressive or unruly individuals sometimes. De-escalation skills are also very crucial, and these situations are often very emotionally draining.
Vashanthi: The most challenging aspect of this work includes handling confrontations, de-escalating conflicts, and making critical decisions under pressure. In some situations, I have had to face stereotypes and biases based on my gender as well, which then becomes an additional challenge. However, I am dedicated to proving that I am just as capable as my male colleagues and I am constantly improving my skills to excel in the role.
Mary: For me the most challenging aspect is to work throughout the day while sitting in one place as it gives me back pain. Also, handling people who don’t listen to our directions is another challenge.
How do you look at health and strength after this job?
Sudha Rani: Being a security personnel has helped me maintain a certain level of fitness. Regular patrols, standing for long hours, and sometimes having to respond to physical confrontations or emergencies have kept me physically active. Mentally, being a security guard has taught me how to stay vigilant and handle various situations with a calm and collected demeanour.
Priyanka: The work of being a security guard itself is hectic. It is a must that we are physically and mentally fit in order to do it. I make it a point to have proper breaks so as to keep my health in check.
Mary: Health and strength are extremely important and I always try to be physically fit by maintaining a good eating habit. I also believe that physical training helps us to strengthen our bodies.
When a conflict or security breach occurs, what comes to your mind first?
Priyanka: It always feels bad when people skip protocols and cause security breaches. My first response is to immediately notify relevant authorities, such as Security Officers or Security Supervisors.
Sudha Rani: I make it a point to try and handle the situation while also providing all the necessary information to my senior immediately.
Vashanthi: I ensure the safety of individuals involved and of the surrounding area. This might involve calling for backup or medical assistance if necessary.
Mary: I always try not to allow any security breach within my workspace, if at all such breaches occur I always take necessary actions and inform my Security Officer immediately.
Priyanka, Mary, Vashanthi, and Sudha Rani are Lady Security Guards at Prestige Shantiniketan, Bengaluru, as part of Stalwart’s team.
.png)
