Ontario Security Guard Test Use of Force Framework

Question 1

What is the primary principle governing use of force by security guards in Ontario?

Accepted Answer

Only the minimum force reasonably necessary in the circumstances may be used

Answer

The fundamental principle is that only the minimum force reasonably necessary to achieve a lawful objective may be used. This is grounded in section 25 of the Criminal Code.

Question 2

What is the 'Use of Force Continuum' or 'Force Options Model'?

Accepted Answer

A framework that shows escalating levels of force a security guard may use in response to escalating levels of threat

Answer

The Use of Force Continuum outlines levels of force from officer presence (lowest) through verbal commands, physical control, intermediate weapons, to lethal force (highest), matched to corresponding threat levels.

Question 3

What is the lowest level on the Use of Force Continuum?

Accepted Answer

Officer/guard presence

Answer

Officer/guard presence is the lowest level on the continuum. Simply being visible in uniform can deter unwanted behaviour without any verbal or physical intervention.

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

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

Answer

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 5

What is the legal test for determining if force used by a security guard was 'reasonable'?

Accepted Answer

Whether a reasonable person in the same circumstances would have used the same level of force

Answer

The legal test is objective: would a reasonable person, facing the same circumstances and knowing what the guard knew, have used the same type and degree of force? This is assessed after the fact by courts.

Ontario Security Guard Practice Test

Ontario Security Guard Practice Test

Ontario Security Guard Test Use of Force Framework