Security guards face growing aggression, call for greater protection

Security guards in the Netherlands are increasingly encountering verbal and physical abuse while on the job. More than half of security personnel report facing aggression regularly, with incidents spanning various sectors, from hospitality to universities. Now, security companies are demanding that the Dutch government intervene and extend the protections provided to public service workers to the private security industry, De Telegraaf reports.

Ard van der Steur, president of the Dutch Safety Industry (Nederlandse Veiligheidsbranche), expressed shock at the findings of a recent study showing the escalating frequency and severity of aggression faced by security guards. "Of course, we know that security work is risky, especially when it comes to aggression," said Van der Steur, who represents nearly 90 percent of private security companies. "But this research reveals not only that these incidents are becoming more severe, but also that the problem is far broader than we had anticipated."

The study, which surveyed 500 security guards, highlighted that incidents most often occur in the hospitality industry, followed by retail and refugee centers. However, even security personnel at universities and receptions are increasingly targeted. "I find this alarming," said Van der Steur.

While many security guards report not feeling unsafe during these encounters, the emotional toll is significant. According to researcher Esmee Souman, "More than half of respondents experience stress, tension, or emotional distress after an incident. For many, these feelings persist for weeks or even months, leading to burnout or deteriorating health."

Despite the toll, most security guards view aggression as part of their job. However, Van der Steur insists that violence and aggression should not be normalized. He points to an aggressive trend that began during the COVID-19 pandemic, when security guards were tasked with enforcing health regulations, which often led to strong, negative reactions from the public. "This hostility has continued to simmer," he added.

The study also found issues within the security industry itself. Only one in five security guards takes advantage of available training for handling aggression. Additionally, communication between security personnel, employers, and the public is often subpar. "But the idea that our people provoke this behavior doesn't sit well with me," said Van der Steur. "Everywhere I go, I see how skilled these professionals are at de-escalation. They have to be, because they don't have the same protective equipment as police officers, like batons or firearms."

The disparity in protection between public service workers and private security guards is a major concern for Van der Steur. "There's been rightful attention on aggression toward public service workers, but our people often stand side by side with the police to protect the public. Especially now, with police numbers shrinking, our teams are increasingly called upon to step in. Yet, unlike public service workers, our people don't receive special legal protection."

Van der Steur warns that without changes, many security guards will leave the profession. "Security guards work for the benefit of society, though the public often doesn't realize it," he said. "If we don't address this situation, we risk losing the very people who help keep our communities safe."