Nova Scotia Security Guard License Practice Exam

What is the maximum duration a security guard can detain an individual without police involvement?

1. Indefinitely until the guards feel safe

2. Generally, until law enforcement arrives

3. Only for a few minutes

4. Until a supervisor arrives

The correct answer is: Generally, until law enforcement arrives

The correct answer is based on the legal framework surrounding the powers of a security guard in Canada, particularly in Nova Scotia. Security guards are authorized to detain individuals when they have reasonable grounds to suspect that a person has committed an offense, typically related to property or safety violations. However, this detention must be brief and reasonable in duration. The most accurate response highlights that the maximum duration for which a security guard can maintain such a detention is until law enforcement arrives. This is crucial because the security guard's role is to manage the situation until trained law enforcement personnel can take over. This ensures both the rights of the individual and the safety of the surrounding area are respected. Detaining someone indefinitely or until a supervisor arrives isn't legally justified and could lead to potential liabilities for the security guard and their employer. Similarly, detaining someone for only a few minutes may be too short to effectively manage a situation where law enforcement needs to be involved. Thus, the primary focus remains on the timely transfer of authority to the police to handle the matter appropriately.