Ontario Security Guard Test — Questions and Answers

Question 1: What is a 'tabletop exercise' in emergency preparedness?

A physical training exercise done on a table
Setting up tables for an emergency shelter
An exercise in folding evacuation maps
A discussion-based exercise where participants talk through their responses to a hypothetical emergency scenario (Correct answer)

Correct answer: A discussion-based exercise where participants talk through their responses to a hypothetical emergency scenario

A tabletop exercise is a low-stress, discussion-based activity where team members walk through their responses to a scenario. It tests knowledge of the emergency plan without the disruption of a full drill.

Question 2: During a hazardous material (HAZMAT) spill, what is the security guard's primary role?

Contain the spill using available materials
Evacuate the area, establish a safety perimeter, identify the substance if possible, and wait for specialized HAZMAT responders (Correct answer)
Clean up the spill immediately
Ventilate the area by opening all windows

Correct answer: Evacuate the area, establish a safety perimeter, identify the substance if possible, and wait for specialized HAZMAT responders

Security guards are not trained to handle HAZMAT incidents. Their role is to evacuate people, establish a safety perimeter, try to identify the substance using placards or SDS, and wait for trained HAZMAT teams.

Question 3: Which of the following is a ground for the Registrar to refuse a security guard licence under the PSISA?

The applicant has not completed post-secondary education
The applicant is over 60 years old
The applicant has a relevant criminal conviction (Correct answer)
The applicant does not own a vehicle

Correct answer: The applicant has a relevant criminal conviction

A relevant criminal conviction, particularly for offences involving violence, dishonesty, or weapons, is a valid ground for the Registrar to refuse a licence.

Question 4: What type of fire extinguisher should be used on an electrical fire?

Water-based (Class A)
Foam-based (Class B)
Carbon dioxide (CO2) or dry chemical (Class C) (Correct answer)
Any available extinguisher

Correct answer: Carbon dioxide (CO2) or dry chemical (Class C)

Electrical fires (Class C) require non-conductive extinguishing agents like CO2 or dry chemical. Using water on an electrical fire can cause electrocution.

Question 5: What is 'reactance' in conflict situations?

A chemical reaction
A type of security alarm
The natural human tendency to resist and rebel when they feel their freedom or choices are being restricted (Correct answer)
A radio frequency interference

Correct answer: The natural human tendency to resist and rebel when they feel their freedom or choices are being restricted

Reactance is a psychological phenomenon where people push back harder when they feel their options are being limited. Security guards can reduce reactance by offering choices rather than issuing ultimatums.

Question 6: Under the PSISA, what is required when a security guard's employment is terminated?

No notification is required
The guard must surrender their licence to the employer
The guard's licence is automatically cancelled
The employer must notify the Registrar (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The employer must notify the Registrar

When a security guard's employment is terminated, the employer has an obligation to notify the Registrar, helping maintain accurate records of active security personnel.

Question 7: In an elevator entrapment emergency, what should the security guard do?

Advise the trapped persons to climb out through the ceiling hatch
Try to pry the doors open with tools
Cut the power to the elevator
Communicate with the trapped persons through the intercom, reassure them, and contact the elevator company and fire department (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Communicate with the trapped persons through the intercom, reassure them, and contact the elevator company and fire department

The guard should communicate with trapped persons to keep them calm, contact the elevator service company for a technician, and call the fire department if there is a medical emergency or extended entrapment.

Question 8: What should a security guard include in a post-emergency report?

A chronological account of events, actions taken, people involved, injuries, damage assessment, and recommendations for improvement (Correct answer)
Only the names of witnesses
Only the time the emergency ended
Only whether the alarm system worked

Correct answer: A chronological account of events, actions taken, people involved, injuries, damage assessment, and recommendations for improvement

A comprehensive post-emergency report includes a chronological timeline, actions taken, resources used, injuries and damage, response effectiveness, and recommendations for improving the emergency plan.

Question 9: When is it appropriate for a security guard to disengage from a conflict?

Never, guards must always resolve every conflict
Only when ordered to by police
Whenever the conflict becomes inconvenient
When the situation poses an unacceptable risk to safety and no immediate lives are at stake (Correct answer)

Correct answer: When the situation poses an unacceptable risk to safety and no immediate lives are at stake

Disengagement is appropriate when continuing to engage would put the guard or others at unacceptable risk, and no one is in immediate danger. Safety always takes priority over resolving every conflict.

Question 10: When describing a person in a security report, which type of descriptor is most useful?

Subjective descriptors like 'short' or 'heavy'
A general impression of the person's overall demeanor
Objective descriptors such as height in centimetres, weight in kilograms, and clothing colours (Correct answer)
Only the person's name if it is known to the guard

Correct answer: Objective descriptors such as height in centimetres, weight in kilograms, and clothing colours

Specific, measurable descriptors (height in cm, weight in kg, clothing colours) provide objective identification information others can act upon.

Question 11: A security guard is asked to sign a waiver releasing them from liability for actions taken on duty. Is this waiver valid?

Yes, waivers eliminate all liability
No, a waiver cannot absolve a person of criminal liability, though it may affect civil claims (Correct answer)
Only if notarized
Only if approved by the Registrar

Correct answer: No, a waiver cannot absolve a person of criminal liability, though it may affect civil claims

While waivers may have some effect on civil liability between private parties, they cannot absolve anyone of criminal responsibility. A guard who commits a criminal act remains criminally liable.

Question 12: What is 'hard physical control' in the Use of Force Continuum?

Techniques involving strikes, punches, or kicks to gain physical control of a resistant subject (Correct answer)
Standing in an authoritative stance
Using handcuffs gently
Using verbal commands firmly

Correct answer: Techniques involving strikes, punches, or kicks to gain physical control of a resistant subject

Hard physical control includes techniques like strikes, punches, and kicks used to overcome active resistance. These are higher on the force continuum and require stronger justification.

Question 13: A security guard witnesses a break and enter in progress at a neighbouring property. Can they make an arrest?

Yes, any person can arrest someone found committing an indictable offence under section 494(1) (Correct answer)
No, they can only act on the property they are guarding
Only with police permission
Only if requested by the neighbour

Correct answer: Yes, any person can arrest someone found committing an indictable offence under section 494(1)

Section 494(1) of the Criminal Code gives any person the power to arrest someone found committing an indictable offence. This power is not limited to the property they are guarding.

Question 14: What is 'paraphrasing' and why is it useful in security communication?

Copying someone's words exactly
Ignoring what someone says and changing the subject
Translating a message into another language
Restating someone's message in your own words to confirm understanding and show you are listening (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Restating someone's message in your own words to confirm understanding and show you are listening

Paraphrasing involves restating someone's message in your own words. It confirms understanding, shows the speaker you are listening, and helps identify any miscommunication early.

Question 15: What communication strategy should a security guard use when denying entry to someone?

Argue with the person until they leave
Physically block the entrance without speaking
Simply say 'no' without explanation
Clearly state the reason for denial, reference the applicable policy, and offer alternatives if possible (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Clearly state the reason for denial, reference the applicable policy, and offer alternatives if possible

When denying entry, providing a clear reason and referencing the policy demonstrates professionalism and transparency. Offering alternatives (such as contacting the person they came to see) reduces confrontation.

Question 16: Under the Criminal Code, what is the maximum penalty for forcible confinement?

6 months imprisonment
Life imprisonment
10 years imprisonment (Correct answer)
2 years imprisonment

Correct answer: 10 years imprisonment

Forcible confinement under section 279(2) of the Criminal Code is an indictable offence carrying a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment, highlighting the seriousness of unlawful detention.

Question 17: In a bomb threat situation, what should a security guard do first?

Ignore the threat as most are hoaxes
Keep the caller on the line as long as possible, note details, and notify police immediately (Correct answer)
Search for the bomb immediately
Evacuate the building without telling anyone why

Correct answer: Keep the caller on the line as long as possible, note details, and notify police immediately

If receiving a bomb threat by phone, the guard should keep the caller talking to gather information (voice characteristics, background noise, specific details about the device), while signaling a colleague to call police.

Question 18: A security guard detains a person suspected of shoplifting. The person demands to leave. What should the guard do?

Lock the doors to prevent escape
Physically restrain them at all costs
Assess whether they have lawful grounds for the arrest; if not, allow the person to leave (Correct answer)
Call the store manager for permission to detain

Correct answer: Assess whether they have lawful grounds for the arrest; if not, allow the person to leave

The guard must quickly assess whether they have lawful grounds (finding the person committing a criminal offence) to make a citizen's arrest. Without lawful grounds, detaining the person could constitute false imprisonment.

Question 19: Under the PSISA, what identification must a security guard produce when asked by a member of the public?

Their driver's licence
No identification is required
Their security guard licence showing their name and licence number (Correct answer)
A business card from their employer

Correct answer: Their security guard licence showing their name and licence number

When requested, a security guard must produce their valid security guard licence, which includes their name, photograph, and licence number.

Question 20: What training topics are covered in the mandatory training curriculum under the PSISA?

Firearms training and tactical operations
Legal powers, communication, use of force, and emergency procedures (Correct answer)
Only customer service skills
Only first aid and CPR

Correct answer: Legal powers, communication, use of force, and emergency procedures

The mandatory training curriculum covers a broad range of topics including legal authorities, communication skills, use of force theory, health and safety, and emergency response procedures.

Question 21: What is the difference between 'subjective' and 'objective' fear in use of force situations?

Subjective fear is more important legally
Subjective fear is what the guard personally felt; objective fear is what a reasonable person would feel in the same situation (Correct answer)
They are the same thing
Objective fear only applies to police officers

Correct answer: Subjective fear is what the guard personally felt; objective fear is what a reasonable person would feel in the same situation

Courts consider both: what the guard actually felt (subjective) and what a reasonable person would have felt (objective). Both must align — the fear must be genuine AND objectively reasonable.

Question 22: Under the PSISA, what happens if a security guard fails to renew their licence before it expires?

They receive a 30-day grace period
Their employer automatically renews it
They can continue working for up to 90 days
They must stop performing security work immediately (Correct answer)

Correct answer: They must stop performing security work immediately

Once a licence expires, the individual is no longer authorized to perform security guard work. Continuing to work without a valid licence is an offence under the PSISA.

Question 23: What is the role of the Registrar under the PSISA?

To hire security guards for government buildings
To train security guards
To set security guard wages
To issue, renew, suspend, and revoke licences (Correct answer)

Correct answer: To issue, renew, suspend, and revoke licences

The Registrar is responsible for the administration of licences, including issuing, renewing, suspending, and revoking security guard and private investigator licences under the PSISA.

Question 24: Who is responsible for administering the Private Security and Investigative Services Act in Ontario?

Ministry of Labour
Ministry of the Solicitor General (Correct answer)
Municipal Police Services
Ontario Provincial Police

Correct answer: Ministry of the Solicitor General

The Ministry of the Solicitor General is responsible for administering and enforcing the PSISA, including licensing of security guards and private investigators.

Question 25: Under the PSISA, what must an employer do before a newly hired security guard begins working?

Verify they hold a valid security guard licence (Correct answer)
Register them with the local police
Submit a request to the Ministry of Labour
Obtain a court order

Correct answer: Verify they hold a valid security guard licence

Employers are required to verify that each security guard holds a valid, current licence before permitting them to begin performing security guard duties.

Question 26: Under the PSISA, which of the following is NOT a requirement for obtaining a security guard licence?

Completion of mandatory training
Passing a background check
Being at least 18 years old
Being a Canadian citizen (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Being a Canadian citizen

The PSISA does not require Canadian citizenship. Applicants must be legally entitled to work in Canada, which includes permanent residents and those with valid work permits.

Question 27: Under Canadian law, when is a security guard justified in using force?

Only after police have given permission
When making a lawful arrest, preventing a crime, defending themselves or others, or removing a trespasser (Correct answer)
Only when specifically authorized by their employer in writing
Whenever they feel uncomfortable

Correct answer: When making a lawful arrest, preventing a crime, defending themselves or others, or removing a trespasser

Force may be justified in specific circumstances: making a lawful citizen's arrest, preventing the commission of an offence, self-defence or defence of others, and removing trespassers under the Trespass to Property Act.

Question 28: Under section 34 of the Criminal Code, what are the three elements required for a valid self-defence claim?

A witness, a report, and a supervisor's approval
Reasonable belief of a threat, defensive purpose, and proportional response (Correct answer)
Fear, anger, and retaliation
A weapon, a uniform, and a licence

Correct answer: Reasonable belief of a threat, defensive purpose, and proportional response

Self-defence under section 34 requires: (1) reasonable belief that force or a threat of force is being used, (2) the act was for the purpose of defence, and (3) the response was reasonable in the circumstances.

Question 29: A security guard sees someone being assaulted. Can the guard intervene?

Only if the victim asks for help
No, only police can intervene in assaults
Yes, the guard may use reasonable force to prevent the assault under section 27 of the Criminal Code (Correct answer)
Only if it occurs on the property they are guarding

Correct answer: Yes, the guard may use reasonable force to prevent the assault under section 27 of the Criminal Code

Section 27 of the Criminal Code allows anyone to use reasonable force to prevent the commission of an offence that could cause immediate harm to any person.

Question 30: How should a security guard handle a conflict involving a person with a mental health crisis?

Ignore the mental health aspect completely
Immediately restrain them for their own safety
Treat them exactly like any other conflict
Use a calm, non-threatening approach, avoid sudden movements, speak simply, and request specialized assistance if available (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Use a calm, non-threatening approach, avoid sudden movements, speak simply, and request specialized assistance if available

Mental health crises require a modified approach: calm demeanor, simple language, no sudden movements, maintaining safe distance, and calling for specialized crisis intervention resources when possible.

Question 31: What is the appropriate way for a security guard to handle a phone call reporting a security concern?

Tell the caller to call police instead
Listen carefully, take notes, ask clarifying questions, and provide the caller with a reference number or follow-up plan (Correct answer)
Dismiss the concern if it sounds minor
Put the caller on hold indefinitely

Correct answer: Listen carefully, take notes, ask clarifying questions, and provide the caller with a reference number or follow-up plan

Professional phone communication requires active listening, note-taking, asking clarifying questions to get complete information, and providing the caller with confirmation that their concern will be addressed.

Question 32: What should a security guard include when describing a suspect in a radio communication?

Only what they were doing
Just their gender and approximate age
Physical description including height, build, clothing, direction of travel, and distinguishing features (Correct answer)
Only their name if known

Correct answer: Physical description including height, build, clothing, direction of travel, and distinguishing features

A complete suspect description should include gender, approximate age, height, build, hair colour, clothing (top to bottom), direction of travel, and any distinguishing features like tattoos or scars.

Question 33: What is the difference between an 'indictable offence' and a 'summary offence' in the context of a citizen's arrest?

There is no difference for arrest purposes
A citizen can arrest for indictable offences but has more limited powers for summary offences (Correct answer)
Summary offences carry heavier penalties
Indictable offences cannot result in arrest

Correct answer: A citizen can arrest for indictable offences but has more limited powers for summary offences

Under section 494(1)(b), a private citizen may arrest someone they believe on reasonable grounds has committed or is about to commit an indictable (serious) offence. For summary (minor) offences, the person must be found committing the offence.

Question 34: What is the primary purpose of a security guard's written report?

To create an accurate, factual record of incidents and activities (Correct answer)
To assign blame for incidents that occurred during the shift
To provide a subjective account of events as perceived by the guard
To summarize the guard's personal opinions about the incident

Correct answer: To create an accurate, factual record of incidents and activities

Reports serve as accurate, factual records of incidents and activities for legal and operational purposes.

Question 35: What is the legal concept of 'excessive force'?

Force that goes beyond what is reasonably necessary to achieve a lawful objective (Correct answer)
Force used against a person who is not resisting
Force that causes any injury
Any use of physical force by a security guard

Correct answer: Force that goes beyond what is reasonably necessary to achieve a lawful objective

Excessive force is force that exceeds what a reasonable person would consider necessary in the circumstances. It can result in criminal charges (assault) and civil liability even if the initial use of force was justified.

Question 36: What is the 'win-win' approach to conflict resolution?

Both parties getting everything they want
Finding a resolution where both parties feel their core needs have been addressed, even if compromises are made (Correct answer)
One party winning and pretending the other won too
Avoiding the conflict so nobody loses

Correct answer: Finding a resolution where both parties feel their core needs have been addressed, even if compromises are made

A win-win resolution addresses the core needs of both parties, even though neither may get everything they want. This approach leads to more lasting resolutions and better relationships.

Question 37: Which detail must always be recorded when a security guard makes a notebook entry?

The date, time, and location of each entry (Correct answer)
The names and home addresses of all persons seen on the property
A severity rating for each observed event
The guard's personal feelings about the shift

Correct answer: The date, time, and location of each entry

Each notebook entry must include the date, time, and location to establish a clear, chronological record of events.

Question 38: What is 'triage' and when might a security guard need to apply this concept?

A technique for securing evidence
A system of prioritizing patients based on the severity of their condition when there are multiple casualties and limited resources (Correct answer)
A type of security clearance
A method of organizing security shifts

Correct answer: A system of prioritizing patients based on the severity of their condition when there are multiple casualties and limited resources

Triage is the process of sorting and prioritizing casualties based on the severity of their injuries. A security guard trained in first aid may need to perform basic triage at mass casualty events until paramedics arrive.

Question 39: When is a security guard permitted to use lethal force?

Whenever they feel their life might be in danger
Never, security guards cannot use lethal force
When protecting high-value property
Only when they reasonably believe that lethal force is the only way to prevent death or grievous bodily harm to themselves or others (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Only when they reasonably believe that lethal force is the only way to prevent death or grievous bodily harm to themselves or others

Lethal force may only be used as an absolute last resort when the guard reasonably believes it is necessary to prevent imminent death or grievous bodily harm. This is the highest threshold on the force continuum.

Question 40: What is the purpose of a fire watch?

Watching a fire burn to assess its spread
Watching a fireplace
Continuous monitoring of a building when the fire alarm system is out of service to provide early warning of fire (Correct answer)
Monitoring employees on smoke breaks

Correct answer: Continuous monitoring of a building when the fire alarm system is out of service to provide early warning of fire

A fire watch is required when the building's fire alarm or suppression system is out of service. A designated person continuously patrols the building to detect fire and initiate evacuation if needed.

Question 41: What is an 'area of refuge' in emergency planning?

A parking area for emergency vehicles
A guard's rest area
A fire-rated area within a building where people who cannot evacuate can wait safely for rescue (Correct answer)
A room where valuables are stored

Correct answer: A fire-rated area within a building where people who cannot evacuate can wait safely for rescue

An area of refuge is a fire-rated space (usually a stairwell landing or specially designed room) where persons unable to evacuate (due to disability or injury) can wait safely for assistance from firefighters.

Question 42: Can a security guard use force to protect property?

Yes, reasonable force may be used to prevent criminal damage to property, but not lethal force (Correct answer)
No, force can never be used to protect property
Only with a special property protection permit
Yes, lethal force if necessary

Correct answer: Yes, reasonable force may be used to prevent criminal damage to property, but not lethal force

Reasonable force may be used to prevent criminal damage to property, but the force must be proportional. Lethal force is never justified solely to protect property — only to protect human life.

Question 43: What is the security guard's responsibility regarding AED (Automated External Defibrillator) use?

Guards should wait for a doctor to arrive
If trained, the guard should retrieve and use the AED on a person in cardiac arrest while calling 911 (Correct answer)
AEDs can only be used by paramedics
Security guards cannot use AEDs

Correct answer: If trained, the guard should retrieve and use the AED on a person in cardiac arrest while calling 911

AEDs are designed for use by trained laypeople. Security guards trained in AED use should retrieve the device quickly and follow its prompts on a person in cardiac arrest, while ensuring 911 has been called.

Question 44: Why is recording the exact date and time critical in a security report?

It allows the security company to calculate overtime pay accurately
It is required only for reports that involve a police response
It helps management plan future security staffing and coverage
It establishes a timeline that can corroborate or contradict other evidence (Correct answer)

Correct answer: It establishes a timeline that can corroborate or contradict other evidence

The exact date and time establish a timeline that can be corroborated or contradicted by other timestamped evidence such as camera footage or witness statements.

Question 45: What does the PSISA require regarding the use of the term 'security guard' in advertising?

The term must always be in French and English
Anyone can use the term freely
The term cannot be used in advertising
Only licensed agencies may use the term (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Only licensed agencies may use the term

Only businesses and individuals who are properly licensed under the PSISA may advertise or hold themselves out as providing security guard services.

Question 46: Under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA), what is the minimum age to be licensed as a security guard in Ontario?

19 years old
21 years old
16 years old
18 years old (Correct answer)

Correct answer: 18 years old

The PSISA requires that all applicants for a security guard licence must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.

Question 47: What is 'necessity' as a legal defence for security guards?

Doing what your employer tells you to do
Following standard operating procedures
Having the proper licence and training
Taking action that would normally be unlawful to prevent a greater harm when no lawful alternative exists (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Taking action that would normally be unlawful to prevent a greater harm when no lawful alternative exists

The defence of necessity applies when a person breaks the law to prevent a greater, imminent harm, and there was no reasonable legal alternative available. It is a limited defence available in exceptional circumstances.

Question 48: What is 'vicarious liability' and how does it apply to security guard employers?

It means the client is always liable
Employers can be held legally responsible for the wrongful acts of their security guard employees committed during employment (Correct answer)
It only applies to government agencies
It means guards are liable for their employer's actions

Correct answer: Employers can be held legally responsible for the wrongful acts of their security guard employees committed during employment

Vicarious liability means an employer can be held responsible for wrongful acts committed by their employees in the course of their employment. Security companies can be sued for the actions of their guards.

Question 49: What is the 'broken record' technique in security communication?

Playing recorded messages over a PA system
Changing your message repeatedly to confuse someone
Pretending not to hear what someone is saying
Calmly and firmly repeating the same clear message or instruction until compliance is achieved (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Calmly and firmly repeating the same clear message or instruction until compliance is achieved

The broken record technique involves calmly repeating the same clear, simple instruction without being drawn into arguments or side discussions. It maintains focus on the desired outcome.

Question 50: What is the legal concept of 'reasonable grounds' as it applies to security guard arrests?

A feeling that something is wrong
Facts and circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to believe an offence has been committed (Correct answer)
Written authorization from the property owner
Permission from a supervisor

Correct answer: Facts and circumstances that would lead a reasonable person to believe an offence has been committed

Reasonable grounds (also called reasonable and probable grounds) is an objective standard — the facts must be such that a reasonable person in the same circumstances would reach the same conclusion.

Question 51: What is the purpose of an emergency response plan (ERP)?

To assign blame after an incident
To determine which employees can leave early
To provide a pre-planned, coordinated approach to managing emergencies that protects lives and minimizes damage (Correct answer)
To satisfy insurance requirements only

Correct answer: To provide a pre-planned, coordinated approach to managing emergencies that protects lives and minimizes damage

An ERP establishes clear procedures, roles, and responsibilities for responding to various emergencies. It ensures a coordinated response that prioritizes life safety and minimizes property damage.

Question 52: What must a security guard do after making a citizen's arrest under section 494?

Detain the person for up to 24 hours for questioning
Issue the person a fine
Deliver the person to a peace officer as soon as possible (Correct answer)
Transport the person to jail

Correct answer: Deliver the person to a peace officer as soon as possible

After making a citizen's arrest, the security guard must deliver the arrested person to a peace officer (police) without delay, as required by section 494(3) of the Criminal Code.

Question 53: Why is it important for security guards to avoid using slang or jargon when communicating with the public?

Slang is only inappropriate in written reports
Slang and jargon may not be understood by everyone and can cause confusion or misinterpretation (Correct answer)
Slang is illegal in Ontario
There is no reason to avoid slang

Correct answer: Slang and jargon may not be understood by everyone and can cause confusion or misinterpretation

Using clear, plain language ensures that your message is understood by people of all backgrounds. Slang and jargon can create barriers to communication and lead to misunderstandings.

Question 54: What is the 'perception gap' in conflict situations?

The time delay in radio communication
A gap in the security fence
The difference between how each party perceives the same situation, often leading to misunderstanding (Correct answer)
The distance between two security cameras

Correct answer: The difference between how each party perceives the same situation, often leading to misunderstanding

The perception gap occurs when different parties interpret the same event differently based on their perspectives, experiences, and biases. Understanding this helps security guards mediate more effectively.

Question 55: What physical warning signs indicate that a person may become violent?

Sitting down quietly
Smiling and making eye contact
Talking on a phone
Clenched fists, bladed stance, removal of clothing or jewelry, and rapid breathing (Correct answer)

Correct answer: Clenched fists, bladed stance, removal of clothing or jewelry, and rapid breathing

Physical warning signs include clenched fists, standing in a fighting stance (bladed), removing items that could be grabbed (glasses, jewelry), rapid breathing, facial flushing, and widened eyes.

Question 56: Under the Trespass to Property Act (Ontario), what authority does a security guard have?

The power to arrest trespassers for criminal offences
No authority under this Act
The power to search trespassers' belongings
The authority to ask a trespasser to leave and use reasonable force to remove them if they refuse (Correct answer)

Correct answer: The authority to ask a trespasser to leave and use reasonable force to remove them if they refuse

As an agent of the property owner, a security guard can direct trespassers to leave under the Trespass to Property Act and may use reasonable force to remove them if they refuse.

Question 57: What is the importance of 'documentation' after a conflict resolution?

Documentation is optional for minor conflicts
Only police need to document conflicts
Thorough documentation protects the guard legally, helps identify patterns, and provides evidence if the matter goes to court (Correct answer)
Documentation is only needed for physical altercations

Correct answer: Thorough documentation protects the guard legally, helps identify patterns, and provides evidence if the matter goes to court

Every conflict should be documented, regardless of severity. Documentation provides legal protection for the guard, helps identify recurring problems, supports training, and serves as evidence in legal proceedings.

Question 58: How can a security guard use 'redirection' as a conflict resolution technique?

By redirecting traffic during an emergency
By shifting the focus of the conversation away from the point of conflict to a more constructive topic or solution (Correct answer)
By redirecting complaints to another department
By physically redirecting a person's movement

Correct answer: By shifting the focus of the conversation away from the point of conflict to a more constructive topic or solution

Redirection involves shifting the person's attention from what is causing their anger to a more constructive topic, such as how the problem can be resolved. This interrupts the escalation cycle.

Question 59: What is 'due diligence' in the context of a security guard's legal responsibilities?

Checking identification at building entrances
Taking all reasonable steps to prevent an offence or comply with the law (Correct answer)
Filing reports with the Registrar
Conducting financial audits

Correct answer: Taking all reasonable steps to prevent an offence or comply with the law

Due diligence means taking all reasonable steps and precautions to comply with the law and prevent harm. Demonstrating due diligence can serve as a defence against certain charges.

Question 60: Under the PSISA, can a security guard work for more than one employer simultaneously?

Only if both employers are in the same municipality
Yes, as long as they hold a valid licence and each employer is aware (Correct answer)
No, this is strictly prohibited
Only with special permission from the Registrar

Correct answer: Yes, as long as they hold a valid licence and each employer is aware

A licensed security guard may work for multiple employers as long as they hold a valid licence and each employer is properly licensed as a security guard agency.

Ontario Security Guard Test

The Ontario Security Guard Test is administered by the Ministry of the Solicitor General of Ontario under the Private Security and Investigative Services Act (PSISA). Candidates must pass this provincially regulated examination to obtain their security guard licence. The test covers legal authorities, use of force principles, emergency response, effective communication, and conflict resolution skills required for licensed security professionals in Ontario.

Questions

75 min

Time Limit

70%

To Pass

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