British Columbia Basic Security Training Practice Exam

What could happen if a security guard fails to document an incident properly?

1. Incidents might be overlooked or mismanaged

2. Nothing, as oral communication suffices

3. Those involved will forget the incident

4. Only the supervisor will be affected

The correct answer is: Incidents might be overlooked or mismanaged

Failing to document an incident properly can result in incidents being overlooked or mismanaged. Thorough documentation serves as an official record that can provide clarity and insight into what occurred during an incident. This is vital for ensuring that the appropriate actions are taken in response to the event, whether that entails further investigation, implementing additional security measures, or protecting individuals involved. Moreover, accurate documentation is crucial for accountability and can be a legal necessity, particularly if the incident results in claims or litigation. Inadequately recorded incidents can lead to misunderstandings, which may prevent proper follow-up actions from being carried out, resulting in potential safety risks or liability issues for the organization. While oral communication is important, it may not provide a reliable or comprehensive account of events. Relying solely on verbal communication can lead to varying interpretations of the incident, which can create confusion and hinder effective response measures. Overall, proper documentation is essential for ensuring that security operations run smoothly and that all incidents are managed appropriately.