In the modern era where security is a major concern in various environments, the role of security guards cannot be underestimated. From housing complexes, office complexes, to even universities, security guards maintain order and security by being at the forefront of dealing with potential threats. However, despite their important role, security guards are often faced with various challenges that affect their performance.
Taking an example from one of the universities in Surabaya, the East Java "Veteran" National Development University or better known as UPNVJT. According to one of the security guards who works there, Ahmad Mukhlisin, gave his view or statement that being a security guard is certainly not an easy job even though it is often underestimated.
In the environment of a large institution such as a university, of course the management of security and order is not an easy thing to control. This is because educational institutions have quite large human resources including students, education staff, lecturers, and many more. University security guards have to face many challenges in controlling the security and order that applies at UPN "Veteran" East Java.
One of the main challenges faced by security guards is the lack of adequate resources. Many security guards are not equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to deal with the various security situations that may occur. This can reduce their effectiveness in addressing threats and slow response to events that require immediate action. As in the example of the riot that occurred between two departments at one of the faculties at UPN "Veteran" East Java last October 2023. According to one of the students, the security guard was considered to be less than alert in breaking up and stopping the chaos that occurred, resulting in violence against one of the students.
In addition, security guards also have to face the pressure to remain alert and responsive at all times. Excessive vigilance and long work schedules can cause physical and mental fatigue, which in turn can affect a security guard's ability to maintain optimal environmental security. For example, security guards on duty at night have the obligation to patrol around once every hour. The large amount of construction currently underway at UPN "Veteran" East Java also makes security guards work extra hard to supervise construction workers. The parking entry and exit system that uses tickets and vehicle registration also means that security guards must be more careful and alert to vehicles entering and exiting the campus area to avoid losing vehicles.
Another challenge is the lack of appreciation and recognition for the role played by security guards in maintaining security and also the large number of students who violate regulations in implementing order. For example, the large number of students who park their vehicles carelessly sometimes makes the roads narrow and even cars don't get a parking space because they are taken over by motorbike drivers. "For example, parking for motorbikes, parking on the shoulder of the road in front of the faculty building is actually not allowed, but cars are allowed. But yes, it's a situation, the parking lot is sometimes full," said Ahmad Mukhlisin.
There are many ways to overcome these challenges. First, there is a need to increase investment in training and skills development for security guards. Regular training on handling emergencies, effective communication, and observation techniques can help improve security guards' ability to deal with situations that may occur. Apart from that, attention is needed for the physical and mental well-being of security guards. Thoughtful scheduling, adequate rest breaks, and access to mental health services can help reduce burnout levels and improve overall well-being.
Recognition of the important role of security guards in maintaining security is also important. Management needs to acknowledge their contributions openly and provide appropriate support in the form of rewards, incentives and adequate facilities. Technology can also be a solution to improve security guard performance. The use of smart security systems, such as connected CCTV cameras and automated monitoring systems, can help improve the efficiency of surveillance and response to security threats. By paying attention to the challenges faced by security guards and implementing appropriate solutions, their vital role in maintaining environmental security can be enhanced.
