Hospitals are places of healing, but they are also high-traffic environments where tensions can run high. From emergency rooms dealing with unpredictable situations to restricted areas requiring strict access control, the need for hospital security guards is greater than ever. But one question that hospital administrators in Florida often ask is:
Are hospital security guards armed?
The short answer? It depends.
In this blog, we will break down when hospital security guards might be armed, what their responsibilities include, and how working with a licensed security company in Florida can help healthcare facilities create a safe environment.
Do Hospitals in Florida Have Armed Security Guards?
The decision to have armed hospital security guards varies by facility and is based on several factors, including the hospital’s size, location, and risk level.
1. High-Risk vs. Low-Risk Hospitals
- Urban hospitals with high crime rates or large emergency departments are more likely to employ armed security guards for added protection.
- Smaller hospitals, clinics, and specialty medical centers may prefer unarmed security guards to maintain a non-threatening presence.
2. Florida State Regulations on Armed Security Guards
In Florida, security guards must be properly licensed to carry firearms. Armed guards are required to have a Class G security license, which involves specialized training in firearm handling, legal use of force, and conflict de-escalation.
3. Hospital Policies and Risk Assessments
Hospitals must balance security with patient care. Many healthcare administrators choose unarmed security guards to create a welcoming environment while relying on local law enforcement for extreme threats. However, facilities facing higher risks—such as psychiatric units, emergency rooms, or trauma centers—may decide that armed security is necessary.
What Do Hospital Security Guards Do?
Regardless of whether they are armed or unarmed, Florida healthcare security guards play a vital role in maintaining order and protecting patients, staff, and visitors. Their responsibilities include:
- Access Control & Visitor Screening – Managing who enters and exits the facility, preventing unauthorized access to restricted areas.
- Emergency Response – Assisting hospital staff during violent incidents, evacuations, or medical emergencies.
- Conflict De-escalation – Handling aggressive behavior from patients, visitors, or staff before situations escalate.
- Theft & Property Protection – Monitoring for suspicious activity and deterring theft of medical supplies or personal belongings.
- Parking Lot & Perimeter Security – Ensuring the safety of staff, visitors, and patients outside the facility.
Armed vs. Unarmed Security: What’s Best for Florida Hospitals?
Hospitals must decide whether armed security guards are appropriate for their environment. Here is a quick comparison:
| Feature | Armed Security Guards | Unarmed Security Guards |
| Crime Deterrence | Stronger deterrence for high-risk areas | Effective for general security and access control |
| Response to Violent Threats | Can intervene if necessary | Relies on local law enforcement |
| Hospital Atmosphere | Can feel intimidating for some patients | More welcoming and patient-friendly |
| Regulatory Requirements | Requires Class G license & firearms training | Requires Class D license & security training |
Hospital security should be tailored to the facility’s unique needs. Many hospitals use a hybrid approach, where armed security is stationed in high-risk areas while unarmed guards provide general security.
Why Work with a Professional Florida Security Company?
If you are a hospital administrator looking for reliable Florida healthcare security guards, partnering with an experienced security company in Florida is essential. At Shergroup USA, we provide:
✔ Licensed and trained hospital security guards
✔ Custom security plans tailored to your hospital’s needs
✔ 24/7 monitoring and emergency response support
✔ Highly professional guards who prioritize patient safety
Whether you need armed or unarmed security guards in Orlando, we can help you find the right solution.
Secure Your Hospital with Shergroup USA
Your hospital’s safety is our priority. If you need licensed security guards in Orlando or anywhere in Florida, let us discuss how we can support your facility.
Contact us today! Complete our inquiry form at Shergroup USA Contact Form and set up a no-obligation chat.