Why Aren’t Robots Good Security Patrollers?: Main Security
Automation and robotics are seen in so many industries. For example, they are seen in deliveries, transport, service sector jobs, and many industries in between. Another sector that is experiencing the rise in robotics is the security industry. Cameras and alarms have been in place for a while, but some robots are taking the place of security guards and are used to patrol premises. But is this a good thing for the security industry?
Many in the industry say that this is a resounding no, with there still remaining a high demand for security guards and off-duty police officers for hire. There are also a variety of reasons why using robots for security patrols is not a good idea. To start with, there are an array of functions that humans are able to do that robots can’t and are a long way off doing, with a physical security guard being able to provide more than robots can. Here are some of the other reasons why robots are not good for security patrols.
Using judgment
When you use robots for security patrols, things are very black and white with them. They can’t be programmed to make certain judgments in certain situations. They can also not apply any kind of reason in a situation and make independent decisions when required. This may change in the future, but right now, it is a long way off.
First aid
One of the roles of a security guard is to perform emergency first aid when needed, as accidents can occur in this line of work. Robots cannot perform the kind of emergency first aid needed in a life or death situation, such as CPR or using a defibrillator. A number of security guards are trained in some emergency response skills to do their job well, which would be impossible with robots.
Associated costs
While you have to pay for a security team’s wages, robots are still new pieces of tech, and as a result, come with a pretty hefty price tag. They also need updates and repairs, and this will also not come cheaply. There really is no comparison when you compare the costs of paying an hourly rate for a security guard or looking for off-duty police officers for hire.
Unarmed robots
The fact of the matter is that robots can’t carry or deploy weapons. This could be anything from a taser, baton, or firearm. There are many regulations that don’t allow this to be possible for robots, because again, there is that lack of judgment, and they’re unable to inflict harm to humans. Traditional security patrols do have weapons to carry when they are on patrol, but only after they have undergone some rigorous and extensive training, as well as security and background checks.
Security patrols may see the rise of this kind of technology to help them do their job, but as you can see, it would be a bad idea for robots to take over this industry.
If you need security services, Main Security can help. Call us today at 281-574-1871 to learn about what we can help with in regards to security!