A security guard operating in British Columbia discovers that their licence has expired while on duty. Which of the following accurately describes the immediate legal ramifications for both the individual and their employer under the Security Services Act?

Question: A security guard operating in British Columbia discovers that their licence has expired while on duty. Which of the following accurately describes the immediate legal ramifications for both the individual and their employer under the Security Services Act?

Answer options: ✅ The security guard commits an offence, and their employer may also be liable for an offence if they permitted the unlicensed work.

• The security guard is required to cease work immediately but faces no penalty if they renew within 24 hours; the employer is not liable.
• Only the security guard is liable for an administrative penalty, as it is solely their responsibility to maintain a valid licence.
• The employer is solely responsible for ensuring employee licences are current, making them liable for any fines, not the individual guard.

Correct answer: The security guard commits an offence, and their employer may also be liable for an offence if they permitted the unlicensed work.

Explanation: Under the BC Security Services Act, working without a valid licence is an offense for the individual. Furthermore, section 47(1)(b) of the Act states that a person who knowingly employs or otherwise retains another person to provide security services without a licence commits an offence, making the employer potentially liable as well.