Security guards play a significant role in keeping people and private and business properties safe. They put themselves on the line every day, yet the risks that come with being a security guard are often overlooked. This has the potential to lead to liability issues if a security guard is injured on the job. If you are a security guard and sustained a workplace injury or illness, you may be wondering what your options are.

Risks of Being a Security Guard

The risks that come with being a security guard include, but are not limited to:

• Slip and falls: Slip and falls can happen anywhere and to anyone, including security guards while on the job. Slip and falls may be caused by spills, leaks, or uneven flooring.
• Physical violence: This may include bullying with the use of a weapon, sexual harassment, or being attacked. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 15 percent of injuries sustained by a security guard are the result of violence or being physically attacked
• Radiation exposure: If a security guard works at a lab or a hospital, they may be at risk of radiation exposure, especially if they lack the necessary knowledge or training.
• Psychological stress: Long or inflexible work schedules and exhaustion may lead to poor mental health.

Security guards are normally the first to respond to a dangerous situation where criminal activity may be occurring. This means that security guards must have proper training and knowledge when put in unpredictable situations. Security guards are not always given appropriate equipment, putting them at a disadvantage if they are confronted with criminals who may be carrying a firearm or other weapon.

Workers’ Compensation for Security Guards

Workers’ compensation may be given to security guards who are out of work due to a work-related injury or illness. The benefits given may be long-term or short-term and can help pay medical bills and replace lost wages. If you are injured on the job, you can file a workers’ compensation claim to help with lost wages and medical bills, regardless of how your injury occurred. However, you must prove that your injury or illness was the direct result of work activities. The first thing you must do after an injury is contact your supervisor to report it. You should then seek medical attention and keep all medical documentation and receipts for out-of-pocket expenses.

Philadelphia Workers’ Compensation Lawyers at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. Represent Injured Security Guards

Understanding liability laws can be tricky, but the right lawyer can help you navigate the process seamlessly. Contact a Philadelphia workers’ compensation lawyer at Larry Pitt & Associates, P.C. Our experienced lawyers will fight to obtain the compensation you deserve for your injuries. For a free consultation, contact us online or call us at 888-PITT-LAW.

Located in Philadelphia, Bensalem, Lansdowne, and Reading, we represent injured workers in Berks County, Bucks County, Chester County, Delaware County, Montgomery County, Philadelphia County, and throughout Pennsylvania, including those in the communities of Abington, Ambler, Ardmore, Bala Cynwyd, Bensalem, Clifton Heights, Crum Lynne, Darby, Downingtown, Doylestown, Drexel Hill, Essington, Folcroft, Glenolden, Haverford, Havertown, Holmes, Kutztown, Lansdowne, Media, Merion Station, Morton, Narberth, Norristown, Norwood, Philadelphia, Prospect Park, Quakertown, Reading, Roxborough, Sharon Hill, Upper Darby, West Chester, and Wynnewood.