Patrolling, Surveillance and Observation Techniques
Domain 4 tests planned and random patrolling, what to look for, and how to observe without becoming a casualty or contaminating evidence.
Patrol method
- Patrol to a route card but vary timing and direction so the pattern is not predictable. Use clocking points or electronic checkpoints honestly. Check doors, windows, fire exits, perimeter fencing, lighting, vehicles, hazards, and people who do not fit the site's baseline.
- Observation uses all senses: look for forced marks, fresh damage, smoke, water, unattended bags; listen for alarms, breaking glass, unusual silence; smell burning, fuel, chemicals. Stop, look and listen at corners before moving.
- Surveillance may be overt (visible patrol) or covert (CCTV monitoring). Record time, location, description and action. Do not enter a dangerous area alone or confront armed intruders; withdraw, observe from safety and call police.
- Complete the patrol log and report defects; a hazard you walk past becomes your liability.
Worked example
On a 03:00 patrol a guard smells burning near a locked store. Reasoning: he does not open the door or switch on lights. He feels the door for heat, listens for crackling, moves people away, activates the fire alarm, calls 999 and the duty manager, and records the time and exact location. He preserves the scene for the fire service and does not re-enter.
Traps
Patrolling at the same time each night; signing a checkpoint without visiting; challenging an intruder alone; using a torch in a way that makes you a target; moving or using equipment after an incident; writing 'nothing to report' when a defect was seen.