What does a security guard wear?

Security guards are visibly present in places where safety matters. Whether it concerns a shopping center, event, airport or business park: the clothing of a security guard communicates authority and recognisability. But what are the rules for security guard uniforms? And what is a security guard actually allowed to wear?

In this article we explain which clothing rules apply in the security industry, what security guards typically wear and which work clothing suits the requirements of this profession.

What are the rules for uniform security?

The security sector in the Netherlands falls under the Private Security Organizations and Investigation Agencies Act (Wpbr). This law sets requirements for the functioning of security companies, but does not prescribe a specific uniform. However, security guards must be recognizable as security guards and that their clothing must not be confused with that of the police or other government services.

Security companies are responsible for determining the uniform and clothing rules. These are laid down in the company regulations. The clothing must be professional and recognizable and must not cause confusion with official authority. Wearing reflective clothing or police-style insignia without permission is not permitted. A security guard may therefore not wear clothing that resembles a police uniform or other government services, even if this is unintentional.

What can a security guard wear?

Security guards may wear clothing that suits the position and the environment in which they are active. This varies greatly per type of security. A doorman at a nightclub wears different clothing than a security guard at a logistics site or a guard at a museum. The employer determines the uniform, but the clothing must always be professional and functional and clearly indicate that they are security personnel.

Typical clothing for a security guard is work trousers with sufficient storage space, a polo shirt or shirt as outerwear and an outer jacket or softshell for working outside. Depending on the working environment, safety shoes, gloves or other protective equipment may also be mandatory. Comfort is just as important as appearance, because a security guard stands or walks the entire shift.

A complete outfit for the security guard

A functional and representative daily outfit consists of Polo shirt Redefined as a base layer, the Work trousers 4-Way Stretch Redefined and the Luxury Hooded Softshell Redefined as an outer layer. The polo shirt is made of 50% organic cotton and 50% recycled polyester and is washable at 60 degrees. The work trousers are fully stretchy, so you can move easily in them. The softshell is water-repellent, breathable and equipped with reflection elements and a removable hood. Together, an outfit that suits the requirements of security guard work: recognizable, functional and comfortable throughout the shift.

Durable clothing for intensive use

Security guards work varying shifts, including at night and on weekends. Work clothing is therefore used intensively and washed regularly. Choose clothing that can withstand frequent washing and retains its quality. The Redefined Tricorp line is made from organic cotton and recycled polyester: materials that are sustainably produced and last a long time.

The range is available in a wide size range from XS to 8XL, so that every security guard can be well dressed for his shift. A good fit is not an afterthought: clothing that fits well gives more freedom of movement and is more comfortable to wear, even during long shifts.

Recognizability and appearance

A security guard must be immediately recognizable. This requires clothing in a consistent color or with clear markings from the security company. A company logo on the clothing enhances recognisability and contributes to a professional appearance. Guests, visitors and employees immediately know who they can contact in the event of an incident or question. For security companies that want a more representative look, Tricorp also offers a more business line.

View the representative line for clothing options that suit a more formal security environment, such as corporate security or reception surveillance.

Customization: work clothing with your logo

Do you want to provide the work clothing with the logo of the security company? Tricorp is the first point of contact for customization. View the options on the page custom work clothing. The implementation is done via a Tricorp dealer near you.