Alberta Basic Security Training (ABST) Practice Exam 2024

What statute provides for the use of force by Security Guards when justified?

1. The Criminal Code of Canada

2. Post orders and company policy

3. The Trespass to Property Act

4. The Duty of Care Act

The correct answer is: The Criminal Code of Canada

The statute that provides for the use of force by security guards when justified is the Criminal Code of Canada. This legal framework outlines the circumstances in which individuals, including security personnel, are permitted to use reasonable force to protect themselves or others, to prevent a crime, or to carry out an arrest. Understanding this principle is crucial for security guards, as it helps them navigate complex situations where they may need to intervene. The Criminal Code specifies the concept of "reasonable force," ensuring that any action taken by a security guard is proportional to the threat or situation they are facing. This emphasizes the importance of using force only when absolutely necessary and within the confines of the law. Each of the other options, while relevant in their contexts, does not exclusively provide the legal foundation for using force. Post orders and company policies guide specific operational protocols but are not legal statutes. The Trespass to Property Act pertains to enforcing rules on private property and may allow for certain actions but does not explicitly govern the use of force. Similarly, the Duty of Care Act deals with obligations towards others’ safety and does not specify the lawful use of force by security personnel. Thus, the Criminal Code of Canada is the appropriate reference point for understanding when the use of force by security guards is