Security Guard Actions During Building Fire According to SOP

The actions of security guards during a fire play a crucial role in protecting the building’s occupants and assets. As the first line of defense, guards must act swiftly and in accordance with the fire evacuation SOP.

Let’s take a look at the procedures every security guard should follow in such emergency situations.

What Should Security Guards Do During a Fire?

In an emergency such as a fire, security guards have a major responsibility as the first responders on site. Every action must be carried out quickly, accurately, and according to procedure. Here are the essential steps:

1. Early Detection and Emergency Assessment

When a fire occurs, the security guard must immediately identify the source of the fire and assess the level of risk in the affected area. Early detection helps prevent the spread of fire and minimizes potential damage.

2. Reporting and Activating Fire Response Procedures

Once the presence of fire is confirmed, the guard must immediately trigger the fire alarm, contact the fire department, and inform other security personnel. Prompt reporting ensures all parties act simultaneously according to the building’s fire evacuation SOP.

Read Also: 5 Primary Duties of Security Guards in a Company

3. Coordinating Building Evacuation

The security guard is responsible for guiding occupants to designated safe routes and assembly points. Proper coordination among emergency response teams ensures an orderly evacuation process without panic.

4. Maintaining Calm and Clear Communication

In emergencies, staying calm and communicating effectively is crucial. Security guards must deliver clear instructions and reassure occupants to ensure a safe and efficient fire response.

Building Fire Evacuation SOP for Security Guards

In a fire emergency, security guards must act swiftly and follow the fire evacuation SOP to ensure the evacuation process runs safely and under control. Below are the key steps:

1. Preparation Before a Fire Occurs

Before facing an emergency, security guards must fully understand and prepare all fire prevention equipment and systems.

Preparation steps include:

• Conducting regular inspections of fire alarms, hydrant boxes, fire extinguishers (APAR), and evacuation routes.

• Knowing the location of the main electrical panel, emergency stairs, and assembly points.

• Participating in regular fire safety training and simulations organized by the company or outsourcing provider.

• Keeping a list of important contacts such as the fire department, HSE officer, and internal emergency response team.

2. Security Guard Actions During a Fire

This section outlines the priority steps that security guards must take when a fire breaks out in the workplace:

a. Early Detection and Incident Confirmation

• If smoke, sparks, or a burning smell is detected, conduct a quick but safe inspection.

• Avoid panic and immediately identify the fire source to determine its scale.

b. Activate Alarm and Report the Emergency

• Immediately activate the fire alarm and contact the nearest fire department.

• Report the situation through internal communication channels to the security supervisor and HSE team.

c. Coordinate Building Evacuation

• Direct occupants to the nearest evacuation route and designated assembly area.

• Ensure no one is left behind in closed or high-risk areas.

• Use loudspeakers or direct communication to give calm and clear instructions.

d. Initial Firefighting Efforts (If Safe to Do So)

• Use the appropriate fire extinguisher (type A, B, or C) if the fire is still small.

• Do not take unnecessary risks—if the fire spreads, focus on evacuation and wait for firefighters to arrive.

e. Coordination with Emergency Response Teams and Authorities

• Provide situation reports to internal emergency response personnel and firefighters upon their arrival.

• Help secure the area to prevent unauthorized access.

Read Also: 7 Principles of Professional Security Guards Every Company Must Apply

3. Implementation of Occupational Safety and Health (K3) During a Fire Emergency

Applying occupational safety and health (K3) principles helps security guards and emergency response teams operate safely and efficiently during building fire evacuations. Key K3 principles include:

• Use personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, masks, heat-resistant gloves, and anti-slip shoes.

• Be mindful of wind direction and fire source to avoid exposure to thick smoke or toxic gases.

• Ensure ventilation and evacuation routes remain safe and accessible.

• Conduct a post-incident self-assessment and health check for personnel exposed to heat or smoke.

4. Post-Fire Supervision and Evaluation

Once the emergency is under control, an evaluation process must be carried out to assess the effectiveness of actions taken and the readiness of the security system:

a . Incident Reporting and Documentation

Once the emergency is under control, an evaluation process must be carried out to assess the effectiveness of actions taken and the readiness of the security system.

b. Evaluation of Procedures and Staff Performance

The security supervisor and management review the implementation of the fire evacuation SOP.

c. Retraining and SOP Updates

The evaluation results become the basis for improving the guards’ capabilities and updating fire prevention procedures for future readiness.

SOS-Trained Security Guards: Ready to Handle Emergencies Professionally

Outsourced security companies play a key role in ensuring every security guard is prepared to handle emergencies such as fires and building evacuations. Here’s what professional outsourcing companies provide: 

• Security guard training and certification in accordance with Police standards to ensure operational readiness.

• Monitoring systems, reporting tools, and emergency simulations as part of ongoing competency development.

It’s essential for companies to partner with a licensed and experienced outsourcing provider in Jakarta for effective and professional fire and evacuation management systems.

Read Also: Company Security SOP: Essential Standards That Must Be Implemented

Build a Fire-Ready Building Security System with SOS

Ensure your security team is always prepared for emergencies through fire evacuation SOP training and real evacuation simulations.

With support from an experienced Jakarta security outsourcing provider, your building’s security system will be stronger and more responsive.

Here’s what you’ll get:

• Security guards trained in fire handling and evacuation procedures.

• Regular safety training in line with Ministry of Manpower standards.

• Transparent and accurate incident monitoring and reporting systems.

• Professional security outsourcing support for your building’s safety.

Contact SOS to get Jakarta’s professional security outsourcing services with trained guards ready to protect your company from fire risks and other emergencies.