What does the term "security guard" encompass?

The term "security guard" encompasses in-house and contract security services because it refers to individuals who are employed to protect people, property, or information, regardless of their affiliation with private security companies, corporate structures, or government law enforcement. In-house security personnel are those hired directly by a business or organization to manage security within that entity, whereas contract security services are provided by external companies that offer security personnel for various clients or situations.

This definition aligns with the broader function and adaptability of security guards in various contexts, which includes their roles in diverse settings such as retail spaces, corporate offices, events, and facilities. These guards handle tasks related to access control, surveillance, customer assistance, and enforcing rules and regulations, among other responsibilities, all aimed at ensuring safety and security.

The other options are more limited in scope, excluding critical components of the security profession. For instance, restricting the definition to only private security companies or corporate security personnel does not encompass the full range of roles that security guards fill. As a result, the comprehensive nature of "in-house and contract security services" best represents the complete picture of what constitutes a security guard.