SIA Guard Report Writing

Question 1

Why is accurate report writing important for security guards?

Accepted Answer

Reports may be used as evidence in court, for insurance claims, internal investigations, and to demonstrate due diligence

Answer

To improve their English skills

Answer

To fill time during quiet periods

Answer

Only to satisfy the client

Question 2

What key information should be included in a security incident report?

Accepted Answer

Date, time, location, persons involved, description of the incident, actions taken, witnesses, and the outcome

Answer

Only the guard's opinion of what happened

Answer

Just the name of the person responsible

Answer

Only information the police request

Question 3

When writing a report, should a security guard include their personal opinions?

Accepted Answer

No — reports should contain only factual, objective observations and not personal opinions or assumptions

Answer

Yes — their opinion is the most important part

Answer

Yes — but only if they are negative

Answer

Only if the client requests it

Question 4

What does 'contemporaneous' mean in relation to note-taking?

Accepted Answer

Notes made at the time of or as soon as reasonably practicable after the event

Answer

Written in modern English

Answer

Notes that are typed rather than handwritten

Answer

Notes shared with contemporary colleagues

Question 5

How should descriptions of people be written in a security report?

Accepted Answer

Using objective, factual descriptors: approximate age, height, build, hair colour, clothing, and distinguishing features

Answer

Using nicknames or slang

Answer

Just stating their ethnicity

Answer

Using vague descriptions like 'suspicious-looking'

Question 6

What is the correct approach to correcting a mistake in a handwritten security report?

Accepted Answer

Draw a single line through the error, write the correction nearby, initial and date the amendment

Answer

Use correction fluid (white-out) to cover the mistake

Answer

Tear out the page and rewrite it

Answer

Scribble over the mistake until it is unreadable