Under what circumstances can security guards use physical force?

The use of physical force by security guards is most appropriate and justifiable when it is necessary to defend themselves or others from harm. This principle is rooted in the legal concept of self-defense, which allows individuals to take reasonable actions to protect themselves or others from immediate threats of physical violence. Security guards are trained to assess situations and understand when there is a genuine threat that warrants the use of force to ensure safety.

This understanding is critical, as it emphasizes the importance of acting proportionately and within the bounds of the law. Security professionals must also be equipped with training to recognize escalation and de-escalation techniques to handle confrontations safely and effectively. In contrast, the other options do not provide clear legal justifications for using force and could lead to inappropriate or excessive use of physicality in situations where it may not be warranted.