Security guards in Ontario could be getting a wardrobe update. The provincial Solicitor General is considering new stipulations for their uniforms and vehicles to create greater visual distinction between private security staff and police officers.
The public is invited to comment on the proposals, which would prohibit various colours and trims commonly associated with police uniforms, and would require the word “security” to be emblazoned on jackets, shirts and hats, along with the private company’s name and logo. Currently, private security uniforms cannot include black or navy blue collared shirts, but it’s proposed this veto would be widened to include dark grey collared shirts and black, dark grey or navy blue t-shirts. Epaulettes of any kind would be prohibited.
It’s suggested there could be some flexibility to forego obvious identifiers of security staff in “sensitive settings” like long term care homes. An exemption from uniform requirements in special circumstances is being considered.
The proposed new rules would require that security vehicles carry the company’s name and logo. Where flashing lights are employed, they could only be amber or white. However, the existing embargo on red, blue, gold or yellow stripes would be lifted. Crash or push bars and prisoner transport cages would be prohibited.
The proposed regulations would also impose new requirements for reporting instances of security staff employing handcuffs, batons, firearms or any other use of force in the course of their work, or any incident in which a dog involved in the provision of security services attacks a person. The current regulations require security companies to keep records of all such occurrences, but the proposed regulations would more explicitly state mandated reporting steps.
That includes an added directive for the subject frontline security staff, who would be required to report the incidents to their employers. From there, companies would have to report the incident to the Ministry of the Solicitor General within 30 days of an incident occurring.
The public can submit comments on the proposals through the Ontario government’s regulatory registry until Jan. 12, 2025.
