Montana Security Guard Licensure Practice Exam 2025 - Free Security Guard Licensure Practice Questions and Study Guide

The appropriate circumstance for a security guard to use physical force is when it is necessary to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. This principle aligns with the legal concept of self-defense and the protection of others, which is recognized in many jurisdictions. Security personnel are trained to assess situations and must prioritize de-escalation and non-violent measures whenever possible. Resorting to physical force should be a last option, utilized only when there is an immediate threat that cannot be otherwise resolved.

Using physical force solely based on a subjective feeling of being threatened lacks the necessary legal and ethical backing, which is why that circumstance is not endorsed. Additionally, the act of pursuing a suspect or following orders from a supervisor does not automatically justify the use of physical force. The focus remains on protecting against imminent harm to ensure that the response is both proportionate and justified.