Many clients only see a guard at the gate. Much of the work happens when nobody is looking. Here is what a typical night shift involves for a Plambo Projects officer.
A good guard does far more than open the boom. The night shift is when most break-ins are attempted, so the routine below is built around staying alert and leaving a clear record of everything that happened.
1. Handover and briefing
The shift starts with a handover from the day guard: who is still on site, deliveries expected, faults with lights or gates, and anything unusual seen during the day. A good handover means nothing falls through the cracks between shifts, and the night guard knows exactly what to look out for.
2. Regular patrols
The officer walks the perimeter at set times and at random times, so nobody can predict when the next round will come. Patrols also show anyone watching from outside that the property is actively guarded all night, not just at the gate.
3. Checking doors, gates and windows
Every access point is tested, not just looked at. A gate that looks shut but is not latched is an open invitation. Guards also check that alarms are armed, outside lights are working and that nothing has been left lying around that could be stolen or used to climb a wall.
4. Access control
Anyone entering after hours is stopped, identified and logged. No name and reason, no entry. Even familiar faces are logged, because a complete record is only useful if it has no gaps.
5. Writing the occurrence book
Every patrol, visitor and incident is written down with the time. This record protects the client and helps the police if something happens. Clear notes also show the client that the guard was awake and working through the whole shift.
6. Reporting problems straight away
Broken lights, damaged fences or suspicious vehicles are reported to the supervisor and the client the same night. Small problems reported early are cheaper to fix and stop criminals from using them as a way in.
Quick checklist
- Handover and briefing
- Regular patrols
- Checking doors, gates and windows
- Access control
- Writing the occurrence book
- Reporting problems straight away
Night protection you can count on
Our officers are PSIRA registered, trained and supervised, so the work gets done even at 3 in the morning. Ask us for a site visit and we will suggest a patrol routine that fits your property.
Talk to Plambo Projects
Request a free quote, call or WhatsApp +27 61 499 1168 or +27 64 523 6703, or email info@plamboprojects.co.za. We beat any written quote.