Security guard study guide. Use this study guide to prepare for basic testing to become a security guard in Ontario. Reference Link -> (https://www.ontario.ca/page/security-guard-study-guide#section-1).
Introduction. This test preparation guide is designed to assist security guards in preparing for the ministry’s mandatory test. The guide will outline key areas that security guards should be familiar with to ensure they perform their duties in accordance with the Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 (PSISA) and its regulations. The subjects covered align with the ministry’s Training Syllabus for Security Guards. Although the guide is meant to assist candidates in preparing for and writing the test, it does not constitute a training manual, and is not a substitute for an in-person training course. At the end of each section of this test preparation guide, you will find links to external resources that may be of further assistance to you. Many of these will bring you to various laws and regulations; it is recommended that you have an overall understanding of these and how they relate to key topics covered in the test. Other links will bring you to existing training materials available to the public. While these materials may contain valuable information, please keep in mind that they were not specifically designed for Ontario’s security guard and private investigator training and testing program..
About the test. The ministry’s tests were developed by subject matter experts (SMEs) in the private security and investigative services industry who worked with the ministry’s test development consultant, CASTLE Worldwide Inc. The SMEs developed the test questions using a protocol of writing and review that conforms to the best practices of psychological and test development standards. They comprehensively reviewed and validated each question for appropriateness of the answers and correct answer keys. A panel of SMEs also reviewed and tested the questions and participated in setting the cut scores (pass marks) for the tests. The security guard test is in a written, 60-question, multiple choice format. Test appointments are two hours in duration, 75 minutes of which is the allotted test completion time. The licence test fee is $66.50 plus 13 per cent HST for a total of $75.15. Test results will be made available within five business days of completion of the test. The cut score for the security guard test is 62%. All tests must be booked in advance either online, or through a call centre agent..
Eligibility rule. You may only register and complete an examination if you hold a currently valid individual Ontario security guard license, or if you have completed mandatory training that meets the ministry’s requirements. Candidates who are not licensed by Private Security and Investigative Services Branch must complete ministry prescribed basic training before they become eligible to register for and complete an examination. If you are already licensed, you may only take the test for which you are licensed, or for which you have taken a ministry approved training course. It is important to take the test well in advance of your licence expiry to ensure there is adequate time to process the reissued licence ..
Contact us. For information on the ministry’s training and testing regulation, on the topics covered in the training syllabi and the tests, you must contact the Private Security and Investigative Services Branch: Phone : 416-212-1650 or toll-free at 1-866-767-7454 E-mail : PSIS.PrivateSecurity@ontario.ca To book a test, and for any information regarding test scheduling and payment, you must contact the ministry’s test delivery agent, Serco DES Inc.: Phone : Toll-free: 1-866-248-2555 E-mail : sgt@serco-des.ca Website : www.ontariosecuritytesting.com.
Section 1 - Introduction to the Security Industry.
Section 2 - The Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 and ministry Code of Conduct.
Section 2 - The Private Security and Investigative Services Act, 2005 and ministry Code of Conduct (Continued).
General rules and standards of practice. These are some of the rules that security guards must be mindful of during their day-to-day activities. They can be found between sections 35 and 40 of the PSISA. Security guards must always carry their licence with them when they are working (including “plain-clothes” security guards, e.g. loss prevention personnel or bodyguards). They must also identify themselves as security guards, and show their licence , if a member of the public asks them to do so. With the exception of bodyguards and loss prevention personnel, security guards must wear a uniform while working. See below for further information on the Uniforms regulation. Security guards are prohibited from carrying any symbol of authority, other than their licence and uniform (for example, a metal badge is prohibited). Security guards are prohibited from holding themselves out as police officers, or performing police-related duties. For this reason, they are also prohibited from using the following words when referring to their work as security guards: detective or private detective law enforcement police officer For example, security guards are prohibited from referring to themselves as “security officers”..
Regulations. In addition to the PSISA, there are several regulations which govern security guards. Many of these regulations apply only to employers. However, individual licensees should be familiar with the regulations, particularly those that affect them directly: Code of Conduct Uniforms Eligibility to hold a licence – clean criminal record.
Code of Conduct. This regulation defines what kind of behavior is appropriate or inappropriate for security guards to display while they are working. Security guards will find that respecting the Code of Conduct is, in most cases, a matter of common sense – security guards are expected to treat members of the public in a respectful and professional manner. For instance, security guards must: act with honesty and integrity comply with all federal, provincial and municipal laws treat all persons equally (without discrimination) avoid using profanity or abusive language avoid using excessive force not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while on duty.
Uniforms. With the exception of bodyguards and loss prevention personnel, all security guards must wear a uniform that complies with the Uniforms regulation. If a guard works for a licensed security agency, his or her employer is responsible for ensuring that the uniform meets all the requirements. Please note, security guards must also be familiar with the regulation, as it is their responsibility to wear the proper uniform on a daily basis. Some key points to look out for: The term “SECURITY” or “SECURITY GUARD” must be displayed on the uniform in specific places and specific dimensions. The uniform must include an identification tag, which shows the licensee’s name, or licence number or both. A security guard uniform should not bear any traits that resemble a police uniform, such as rank chevrons, a police-style forage cap, or stripes down the side of the trousers..
Eligibility to hold a licence – clean criminal record.
Public complaints. Members of the public may file a public complaint against any licensed individual or licensed company if they feel that a violation of the PSISA or its regulations has been committed. Public complaints can lead to facilitation. As well, the PSISB may investigate the matter and as a result, charges may be laid against the licensee, a warning may be issued, or the licence may be revoked..
Penalties for contravening the act. Individuals found guilty of offences under the PSISA could face a fine of up to $25,000, imprisonment for up to one year or both. As such, it is crucial that security guards comply with all aspects of the PSISA and its regulations to avoid the possibility of being named in a complaint or facing charges..