Ethical Use of Force for Security Guards in Manitoba
What Every Manitoba Security Professional Needs to Know
Introduction
Security guards in Manitoba play a critical role in protecting people, property, and businesses. While most situations can be resolved through communication, some incidents may require the use of force to ensure safety. When that happens, security professionals must know how to act lawfully, responsibly, and ethically.
This article explains the key ethical considerations and legal requirements for the use of force in Manitoba, helping guards make confident and compliant decisions on the job.
What “Use of Force” Means in Manitoba Security
Use of force refers to the minimum amount of physical intervention needed to gain lawful control of a situation or a resistant person.
In Manitoba, the private security industry is regulated under:
✅ The Security Services Act
✅ The Criminal Code of Canada
Security guards must always operate within these laws, using only reasonable and necessary force while respecting individual rights.
Because many situations unfold quickly, guards must be trained to assess threats accurately and respond using the safest and most appropriate option.
Ethical Principles for Manitoba Security Guards
✅ Proportionality
Force must match the subject’s behaviour and level of threat.
Example: A non-aggressive shoplifter should not face high-impact physical techniques. Soft control and verbal commands may be enough.
✅ Necessity
If a situation can be resolved using communication or de-escalation, force should not be used.
✅ Respect for Human Rights
Even during confrontation, guards must:
- Preserve the subject’s dignity
- Avoid unnecessary harm
- Comply with the Canadian Charter of Rights & Freedoms
- Consider obligations under The Human Rights Code (Manitoba)
These principles build trust with the public and reduce risk of complaints, lawsuits, or regulatory penalties.
Legal Framework for Force in Manitoba
Although Manitoba’s Security Services Act regulates licensing and conduct, the authority to use force comes primarily from the Criminal Code of Canada, including:
- Section 25 — Reasonable force while acting under lawful authority
- Section 26 — Liability for excessive force
- Section 27 — Preventing an offence with reasonable force
- Section 34–35 — Self-defence, defence of others, and protection of property
Security guards do not have elevated force powers beyond the public. Their actions must be fully justified.
Practical Ethical Decision-Making
Security guards must think critically — even under stress.
Before using force, ask:
✔ Am I facing an immediate risk of harm?
✔ Have I tried de-escalation or calling for assistance?
✔ Is this level of force the minimum necessary?
✔ Would I be comfortable defending this decision in court or to my employer?
Real-World Scenarios
| Situation | Ethical Approach |
|---|---|
| Non-violent trespasser refuses to leave | Continue communication, set clear expectations, and contact police if needed |
| Retail theft incident | Consider safety first — intervene only if the situation is low-risk |
| Aggressive behaviour escalating | Create space, use verbal direction, call support, and apply gradual physical control only if needed |
Poor choices — especially involving excessive force — can result in criminal charges, termination, or loss of licensing eligibility.
Training Matters
To make the right decision under pressure, guards must be prepared with:
- De-escalation and communication skills training
- Understanding of Manitoba’s legal framework
- Proper physical intervention techniques
- Incident documentation skills
Stay Compliant. Stay Professional. Stay Safe.
Our Manitoba Use of Force & Handcuffing Course provides the knowledge and practical skills security professionals need to safely manage confrontations while understanding legal responsibilities.
Conclusion
Ethical use of force in Manitoba is about protecting safety while protecting rights. By applying proportionality, necessity, and respect for human dignity — and by knowing the legal boundaries — Manitoba security guards can act confidently and professionally in any situation.
👉 Take charge of your professional development. Enroll in our Manitoba Use of Force and Handcuffing Training today and ensure you’re ready to respond safely, legally, and effectively.
