2.2 — Definition of a Security Guard under the PSISA
The PSISA defines who qualifies as a security guard and outlines the activities that constitute security guard work. Any individual who performs security guard duties in Ontario — whether employed by a security agency or working independently — must hold a valid licence issued under the Act. Performing security guard work without a licence is a provincial offence.
2.3 — Licensing Requirements (s. 10(1))
Under Section 10(1) of the PSISA, an individual must meet all of the following requirements to be eligible for a security guard licence:
- Completed Required Training and Testing — Successful completion of a Ministry-approved training program and the provincial licensing examination.
- At Least 18 Years of Age — Applicants must be a minimum of 18 years old at the time of application.
- Clean Criminal Record — As defined under the Clean Criminal Record Regulation — no outstanding criminal charges, no criminal convictions for which a pardon has not been granted.
- Legally Entitled to Work in Canada — Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or holder of a valid work permit.
- Proof of Requirements — Applicants must provide documentation proving they meet all of the above criteria when submitting their licence application.
2.4 — General Rules and Standards of Practice (ss. 34–40)
The PSISA establishes clear rules governing the conduct and presentation of security guards while on duty:
2.5 — The Ministry Code of Conduct
The Ministry of the Solicitor General has established a Code of Conduct that all licensed security guards must follow. The Code requires security guards to:
- Act with honesty and integrity at all times while performing their duties.
- Comply with all federal, provincial, and municipal laws.
- Treat all people equally without discrimination based on race, colour, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, disability, age, or any other protected ground.
- Avoid profanity or abusive language when interacting with any person.
- Avoid excessive force — use only the minimum force necessary and only when legally justified.
- Not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs while performing security duties.
2.6 — Public Complaints Process
Members of the public may file complaints against licensed security guards or agencies through the Registrar under the PSISA. The complaints process may result in:
- Facilitation and resolution between the parties
- Formal investigation into the conduct of the guard or agency
- Issuance of a warning or conditions on the licence
- Laying of charges under the PSISA or Criminal Code
- Licence suspension or revocation
2.7 — Penalties for Contravening the Act
- —A fine of up to $25,000
- —Imprisonment for up to one year
- —Or both a fine and imprisonment
Full compliance with the PSISA is not optional — it is a legal obligation for every licensed security professional and agency in Ontario.
2.8 — Uniforms and Equipment Regulations
The PSISA and its regulations establish standards for the appearance and equipment of security guards:
2.9 — Employer Obligations under the PSISA
Employers (security agencies) also have significant obligations under the PSISA:
- Hold a Valid Agency Licence — The agency itself must be licensed by the Registrar under the PSISA.
- Ensure All Guards Are Properly Licensed — It is an offence to employ an unlicensed individual as a security guard.
- Maintain Records — Accurate records of all employees, training, and incidents must be kept.
- Provide Training — Ensure guards receive appropriate training for their assignments.
- Report Incidents — Serious incidents must be documented and reported as required by law.
2.10 — Module 2 Review Questions
Test your understanding of Module 2. The correct answer for each question is highlighted.
1. Under the PSISA, what is the minimum age requirement to hold a security guard licence?
- A.16 years old
- B.18 years old
- C.19 years old
- D.21 years old
2. Which of the following terms is a security guard prohibited from using to describe themselves?
- A.Security Professional
- B.Guard
- C.Officer
- D.Security Guard
3. What is the maximum fine for contravening the PSISA?
- A.$5,000
- B.$10,000
- C.$25,000
- D.$50,000
4. Under the Ministry Code of Conduct, security guards must:
- A.Use whatever force they deem appropriate
- B.Act with honesty and integrity and treat all people equally
- C.Carry metal badges for identification purposes
- D.Refuse to identify themselves to the public
5. Which of the following is an employer's obligation under the PSISA?
- A.Allow unlicensed individuals to perform guard duties during staffing shortages
- B.Ensure all security guards hold valid licences
- C.Provide police-style badges to all employees
- D.Delegate licensing requirements to individual guards