Under what circumstances can a security guard use physical force?

The use of physical force by a security guard is a serious matter governed by legal and ethical considerations. The correct choice emphasizes that a security guard can only use physical force when it is absolutely necessary to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. This aligns with the principles of self-defense and the legal justification for using force, which typically requires an immediate threat that cannot be avoided through other means.

In situations where a guard feels threatened but there is no immediate risk of harm, using physical force could be construed as excessive and could lead to legal consequences or disciplinary action. Similarly, enforcing rules and regulations or controlling a crowd at events can often be achieved through verbal communication or de-escalation techniques. In these scenarios, the use of physical force is not appropriate unless a significant, immediate threat presents itself. Thus, the notion that physical force should only be applied as a last resort ensures that security guards act within the boundaries of their training and the law.