Will AI replace Security Guards?
AI can do 44% of the work Security Guards do at least twice as fast. Real use has not caught up: none of their tasks show up in real AI use yet, but AI could speed up 4 of them. Robots can technically handle 7 physical tasks. 3 still need a person.
AI is already doing this0 · 0% of time
People already use AI for these tasks in real work, based on Anthropic's analysis of how Claude is used.
- Real AI use has not reached any of this job's tasks yet.
AI could do this next4 · 44% of time
AI can speed these up by at least half, but real use has not caught up yet. These are next in line.
- Patrol industrial or commercial premises to prevent and detect signs of intrusion and ensure security of doors, windows, and gates.28% of time
- Write reports of daily activities and irregularities, such as equipment or property damage, theft, presence of unauthorized persons, or unusual occurrences.8% of time
- Answer telephone calls to take messages, answer questions, and provide information during non-business hours or when switchboard is closed.5% of time
- Warn persons of rule infractions or violations, and apprehend or evict violators from premises, using force when necessary.4% of time
Robots can technically do this7 · 29% of time
Physical tasks that today's robots can perform in at least some settings. Robots are cost competitive for very few tasks so far, so this change moves slower.
- Circulate among visitors, patrons, or employees to preserve order and protect property.Robots: structured workplaces10% of time
- Answer alarms and investigate disturbances.Robots: structured workplaces5% of time
- Operate detecting devices to screen individuals and prevent passage of prohibited articles into restricted areas.Robots: purpose built settings4% of time
- Lock doors and gates of entrances and exits to secure buildings.Robots: purpose built settings4% of time
- Escort or drive motor vehicle to transport individuals to specified locations or to provide personal protection.Robots: purpose built settings3% of time
- Inspect and adjust security systems, equipment, or machinery to ensure operational use and to detect evidence of tampering.Robots: structured workplaces3% of time
- Monitor and adjust controls that regulate building systems, such as air conditioning, furnace, or boiler.Robots: structured workplaces1% of time
Still needs a person3 · 28% of time
No real AI use, no proven AI speedup and no robot that can do it yet. This is the part of the job to build on.
- Monitor and authorize entrance and departure of employees, visitors, and other persons to guard against theft and maintain security of premises.25% of time
- Call police or fire departments in cases of emergency, such as fire or presence of unauthorized persons.1% of time
- Respond to medical emergencies by administering basic first aid or by obtaining assistance from paramedics.1% of time
Your week is not the average
Describe what you actually do and get a personal report: your own tasks, what AI can already do, what stays yours and a 90 day plan.
What this means
AI can speed up parts of this job, mostly the paperwork and information work around it. The core still depends on hands, presence or relationships. Robots are the other change to watch: they can technically do 56% of the working time.
What to do next
- Get ahead on the 4 tasks AI could do next. These move as tools improve, so learning them early pays off.
- Keep an eye on the 7 physical tasks robots can technically do. Cost keeps most robots out of work today, so this shift is slower.
- Build on the 3 tasks that stay human. This is where your judgment, skill and relationships matter most.
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