Businesses across the United Kingdom rely on security services to protect staff, property and daily operations. Two of the most common options are mobile patrols and full-time security guards, but many organisations are unsure which is most suitable for their site.
Both approaches provide strong protection when used correctly, but they serve different purposes and suit different types of environments. This guide explains how each option works and helps you decide which service is best for your property.
Understanding Mobile Patrols
Mobile patrols involve trained officers visiting a property at scheduled or random intervals. Officers travel between sites and carry out checks of external and internal areas depending on the agreement in place.
Where Mobile Patrols Work Best
Mobile patrols are most effective on sites that do not require a constant security presence, such as:
• Industrial estates outside working hour
• Retail parks during the night
• Car parks and outdoor storage areas
• Vacant or temporarily closed properties
• Quiet office buildings where activity is low
• Sites where visibility alone is a strong deterrent
In these cases, the regular presence of a patrol vehicle and uniformed officer is often enough to discourage trespassing, vandalism and opportunistic activity.
Benefits of Mobile Patrols
Cost-effective security for low to medium-risk sites
• High visibility during patrols
• Flexible coverage at agreed times
• Can be combined with CCTV and alarm response
• Useful for spot checks, perimeter checks and locking up routines
Limitations of Mobile Patrols
Because patrol officers are not based on the site permanently, they cannot always respond immediately to situations that occur between visits. For businesses requiring constant monitoring or support for staff, an on-site guard may be more appropriate.
Understanding Full-Time Security Guards
Full-time security guards provide constant presence and oversight on a site. They are positioned at the property for a set number of hours each day, offering both security and reassurance for staff and visitors.
Where Full-Time Guards Work
Full-time guards are well suited to:
• High-risk sites with valuable assets
• Buildings with regular movement of people
• Sites requiring access control or visitor management
• Large premises with extensive internal areas
• Environments where staff require support
• Locations with a history of incidents
This makes them a strong option for warehouses, distribution centres, office buildings, corporate receptions, construction projects and busy commercial estates.
Benefits of Full-Time Guards
• Immediate response to incidents
• Strong sense of safety and reassurance
• Ability to manage conflicts and emergencies
• Visitor and access control duties
• Continuous physical presence, reducing the chance of criminal activity
• Supports staff throughout the day
Limitations of Full-Time Guards
A permanent on-site guard involves higher staffing costs than patrols, and very large sites may require multiple officers to maintain full coverage.
Choosing Between Mobile Patrols and On-Site Guards
The right choice depends on several factors. Businesses can use the following considerations as a guide:
1. Level of Risk
High-risk sites benefit from a full-time guard. Lower-risk environments often suit patrols.
2. Hours of Activity
Buildings used during the day but empty at night may need different approaches during each period.
3. Size of Site
Large or complex sites may need constant presence.
4. History of Incidents
If a property has experienced repeated problems, on-site guarding may be necessary.
5. Cost Requirements
Mobile patrols are often chosen for cost efficiency, while guarding offers greater coverage.
When a Combined Approach Works Best
In many cases, the strongest protection comes from using both methods together. For example:
• Mobile patrols for external checks
• CCTV and alarm monitoring for continuous awareness
• A full-time officer during business hours
• Alarm response for out-of-hours issues
This balanced approach reduces blind spots and improves incident response times.
How Rivo Security Can Support Your Site
Rivo Security provides both mobile patrols and full-time guards, along with complementary services including:
• Security guard attending
• CCTV installation
• CCTV and alarm monitoring
• Key holding
• Vacant property inspections
• Risk assessments and site reviews
Our team can assess your property and recommend the most suitable and cost-effective approach.
Bringing Your Security Strategy Together
Mobile patrols and full-time guards each play a valuable role in commercial security. The best choice depends on your site’s layout, activity levels and risk profile, and many businesses find a combined approach provides the most reliable protection.
If your organisation is reviewing its security arrangements, we can offer clear and practical guidance based on your environment.
To speak with Rivo Security and Monitoring, contact info@rivosecurity.com, call 0113 487 3999, or visit rivosecurity.com. Our head office is located at Anchor House, Thornhill Road, Dewsbury, WF12 9QE.
