Ontario Security Guard Practice Test – Printable PDF

60 printable Ontario security guard test questions with an answer key: PSISA, trespass, arrest, use of force, reports and first aid. Print or save as a PDF.

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The ministry test is 60 multiple-choice questions with 75 minutes to answer, and the cut score is 62 percent, about 38 correct. This printable sheet has the same 60-question length, drawn evenly from all 15 of our topics, which follow the training syllabus: the PSISA and licensing, licence rules and uniforms, the Code of Conduct, basic security procedures, patrols, notebooks and reports, health and safety, emergency response, first aid, the legal system and evidence, the Trespass to Property Act, arrest powers, use of force, communication and sensitivity training.

Set a 75-minute timer, work through the sheet in one sitting, then turn to the answer key on the separate pages at the end. Each answer has a short explanation and names the section of the study guide, syllabus or statute it comes from. Look hard at anything you miss on trespass and citizen's arrest under section 494 of the Criminal Code: legal authorities get the most class time in the syllabus, and the questions test the exact conditions. If you also use older PDFs found online, check them against the current study guide.

Jump to the answer key

1.A guard assumes a teenager in a hoodie is a shoplifter and follows him around the store. What does sensitivity training say this reflects?
1. A required loss prevention step
2. Good situational awareness
3. A bias the guard should recognize
4. A duty under the Trespass Act
2.What should a security report contain?
1. Personal feelings about the people involved
2. Guesses about motives
3. Opinions and assumptions
4. Facts and observations
3.Which model helps guards understand the appropriate level of force in a situation?
1. The WHMIS hazard model
2. The National Use of Force Model
3. The five Ws and how report model
4. The APCO ten code model
4.How much time do you have to complete the security guard test itself?
1. 2 hours
2. 90 minutes
3. 75 minutes
4. 60 minutes
5.Which listed disadvantage of fixed surveillance relates to the guard's senses?
1. It depends on hearing alarms only
2. It relies on vision alone
3. It uses all five senses
4. It needs the guard to smell fumes
6.Why should a guard learn the employer's first aid policies?
1. To avoid ever calling 911
2. To respond fast and report properly
3. To replace paramedics on site
4. To bill casualties for care
7.A person asked by the guard to leave a mall refuses and stays. Under the Act, what is this?
1. Not an offence on private property
2. A Criminal Code theft
3. A by-law parking issue
4. A trespass offence
8.Why do guards need to understand the Ontario and Canada Evidence Acts?
1. So they can act as prosecutors at the trial
2. So information they obtain is admissible
3. So they can choose the judge
4. So they can avoid testifying
9.A guard radios 10-52. What are they asking for?
1. Police backup
2. A tow truck
3. A fire truck
4. An ambulance
10.How tall must the word SECURITY be on the chest of a guard's outermost uniform piece?
1. At least 1.5 centimetres
2. At least 10 centimetres
3. At least 0.5 centimetres
4. At least 5 centimetres
11.A guard refuses unsafe work. What must they do right away?
1. Find another guard to take over the work immediately
2. Call the media about the hazard
3. Report the refusal to the employer or supervisor
4. Leave the site and go home
12.Angry at a rival, a guard files a complaint against another licensee that they know is untrue. What has happened?
1. A normal use of the complaint process
2. No breach, since complaints are private
3. A breach of the Code of Conduct
4. A civil matter only
13.Under the Criminal Code, which intent is part of the offence of theft?
1. To damage the thing in public
2. To hide the thing from security
3. To deprive the owner of the thing
4. To sell the thing for a profit
14.A situation develops that is beyond the scope of your job. What does the syllabus say you must be able to do?
1. Recognize it and get additional help
2. Ask a bystander to take over
3. Handle it alone to avoid delay
4. Wait until the end of your shift
15.Why is it important to log visitors' entry and exit times?
1. So they can be located in an emergency
2. So they can be billed for parking
3. So they can be banned later
4. So the client can track wages
16.The syllabus says guards should show sensitivity and empathy toward which group, among others?
1. Only other licensed guards
2. Only the client's managers
3. People with mental health issues
4. Only people they already know
17.When should a report describe why an incident happened?
1. Never, motives are irrelevant
2. Only when the motive is evident
3. Only if the suspect confesses
4. Always, using your best guess
18.A guard lawfully arrests a shoplifter but keeps hitting him after he stops resisting. What does section 26 say?
1. The guard is criminally responsible for the excess
2. The arrest makes all force legal
3. Only the employer is responsible
4. It is fine as long as the stolen item was very valuable
19.What is the minimum length of basic security guard training when Emergency Level First Aid is included?
1. 60 hours
2. 40 hours
3. 33.5 hours
4. 20 hours
20.Why should you plan alternate patrol routes in advance?
1. Alternate routes are always shorter
2. Supervisors check your route variety in weekly audits
3. Areas may be blocked by fire or a chemical leak
4. Clients like to see longer reports
21.What must you provide to the test administrator before you can take the security guard licensing test?
1. A letter from a current employer
2. A copy of your police record check
3. Proof of a driver's licence
4. A valid emergency first aid certificate
22.Which of these is one of the three ways to commit trespass under the Act?
1. Walking past a closed store
2. Parking on a public street outside the property
3. Being on a public sidewalk
4. Doing an activity that is prohibited there
23.Which court-related task might a security guard be asked to do, according to the study guide?
1. Set the sentence for an offender
2. Choose the members of the jury
3. Rule on whether evidence is admissible
4. Prepare witnesses for testimony
24.Dispatch asks whether anyone is injured and nobody is. Which code means negative?
1. 10-69
2. 10-12
3. 10-4
4. 10-74
25.What is the maximum fine for a security business entity convicted of a PSISA offence?
1. $250,000
2. $25,000
3. $100,000
4. $500,000
26.WHMIS sets out responsibilities for which three groups?
1. Police, courts and lawyers
2. Clients, guards and visitors
3. Suppliers, workers and employers
4. Landlords, tenants and inspectors
27.A loss prevention guard working undercover does not reveal that they are a guard. Does this breach the misrepresentation rule?
1. No, concealing identity for duties is exempt
2. Yes, guards must always announce themselves
3. Yes, unless the manager is present
4. No, because loss prevention needs no licence
28.While checking IDs at a gate you record visitors' home addresses. What should you do with that information?
1. Post the list on the guard desk
2. Share it with the client's marketing team
3. Keep a copy at home for reference
4. Not use or disclose it
29.Who determines a security guard's role in an emergency at a site?
1. The employer or client
2. The guard, on the spot
3. The Private Security Registrar
4. The first visitor on scene
30.Which crowd control skill does the syllabus list?
1. Issuing provincial offence tickets
2. Arresting the crowd's leaders first
3. Confiscating cameras from the crowd
4. Creating a barricade or staging area
31.Which is listed in the study guide as a difference that can lead to prejudice?
1. Phone brand
2. Education
3. Shoe size
4. Favourite food
32.You need to use the washroom during a shift at a busy front desk. What should you do with your notebook?
1. Leave it open on the desk
2. Hand it to a visitor to hold
3. Keep it with you or secured
4. Leave it under the counter
33.Which is one of the conditions for self-defence under Criminal Code section 34?
1. The defender is licensed
2. The act is reasonable in the circumstances
3. The other person struck first twice
4. A witness confirms the threat
34.What is the cut score (pass mark) for the security guard test?
1. 70%
2. 75%
3. 80%
4. 62%
35.Why should a guard vary the timing and route of patrols?
1. So the logbook looks more complete
2. So patrols are not predictable
3. So the guard visits fewer areas
4. So the patrol takes less time
36.For which age group is choking first aid required in the security guard syllabus?
1. Adults
2. Children only
3. Infants and toddlers
4. Infants only
37.A person told to leave returns to the premises two days later. How does the court treat this when setting a penalty?
1. As irrelevant to sentencing
2. As a defence to the charge
3. As an aggravating factor
4. As a separate criminal offence
38.In what two ways can a court be satisfied that an accused person is guilty?
1. A guilty plea or a finding of guilt after trial
2. A witness statement or a photo
3. A police report or a guard's written incident report
4. A confession to a guard or a fine
39.What does the code 10-37 refer to?
1. Intoxicated driver
2. Suspicious vehicle
3. Abandoned property
4. Stolen licence plate
40.Which guards are NOT required to wear a uniform under the PSISA?
1. Guards working night shifts
2. Bodyguards and loss prevention personnel
3. Guards at private residential buildings
4. Mobile patrol and alarm response guards
41.Two guards race each other down a stairwell during a quiet night shift. What does the Occupational Health and Safety Act say?
1. Workers must not race or horseplay
2. It is allowed during breaks only
3. It is allowed if no one gets hurt
4. It is a matter for the client only
42.A guard swears at a customer who is slow to leave the lobby. What does the Code of Conduct say?
1. It is a matter for the client only
2. Swearing is fine if the customer swore first
3. Profane or abusive language is prohibited
4. It is allowed after closing hours
43.A man openly takes a tool from a building site in full view of the workers. Can this still be theft?
1. Yes, secrecy is not required
2. No, theft must be concealed
3. Only if he runs away afterward
4. Only if the tool is worth over $5,000
44.What is the priority when a guard responds to an alarm?
1. Protecting the client's stock
2. The guard's own safety
3. Finishing the response quickly
4. Catching the intruder
45.A crime has been committed on your site and police are on the way. How can you best supplement police efforts?
1. Start questioning suspects alone
2. Secure the scene until police arrive
3. Send witnesses home to save time
4. Clean up the area for the client
46.According to the syllabus, which issue can arise when guards deal with a wide variety of people?
1. Faster report writing
2. Fewer alarm calls
3. Shorter patrol routes
4. Communication difficulties
47.What does the study guide call arguably a guard's most important tool?
1. The flashlight
2. The notebook
3. The uniform
4. The radio
48.Who faces a much higher risk of positional asphyxia during restraint?
1. A person in excited delirium
2. A person who is under 25
3. A person who is calm and cooperative
4. A person who is very fit
49.Which of these workers is excluded from the PSISA licensing rules?
1. A paid bodyguard
2. A mall patrol guard
3. A locksmith
4. A loss prevention worker
50.Before patrolling a new site, which locations should a guard learn?
1. Water shut-offs, alarm panels and extinguishers
2. Staff lunch rooms, vending machines and break lounges
3. Managers' homes and phone numbers
4. Nearby restaurants and coffee shops
51.How long is the emergency level first aid section of the security guard training syllabus?
1. 40 hours in class
2. 12 hours in class
3. 6.5 hours in class
4. 2 hours in class
52.A trespasser has just left the property and refuses to give a name. Who may arrest them off the premises under the Act?
1. The occupier
2. Only a police officer
3. The security guard
4. Any witness
53.Where are most of Canada's criminal offences found?
1. The Trespass to Property Act
2. Municipal by-laws
3. The Criminal Code
4. The Provincial Offences Act
54.Which of these is one of the principles of communication taught in the syllabus?
1. Handwriting style
2. Spatial distance
3. Typing speed
4. Uniform colour
55.Your licence has been revoked by the Registrar. What must you do with it?
1. Return it to the Registrar immediately
2. Destroy it yourself
3. Give it to your employer
4. Keep it until the appeal process has ended
56.While a work refusal is being investigated, where must the worker be?
1. At the nearest police station
2. At home until called back
3. At the hazard, so they can keep monitoring it
4. In a safe place near their work station
57.When may the Registrar decline to deal with a Code of Conduct complaint?
1. When it was filed by email
2. When the employer objects to the complaint
3. When the guard denies it
4. When it is frivolous or not in good faith
58.How does the Criminal Code classify causing a disturbance under section 175?
1. Summary conviction offence
2. Indictable offence only
3. Provincial offence
4. Municipal by-law offence
59.Which of these should a guard watch for as part of fire prevention?
1. Fresh paint on a hallway wall
2. Damaged or worn fire suppressors
3. Office doors closed at night
4. New carpet laid in the lobby
60.What must a guard wear when directing traffic in a parking lot?
1. A metal badge for authority
2. Dark clothing to avoid glare
3. A police-style cap
4. A reflective vest or cuffs

Answer key with explanations

1. C — A bias the guard should recognize
Guards should learn to identify their own biases so they do not affect how they deal with the public. Acting on an assumption about appearance is the kind of bias the training targets.
Sensitivity and human rights · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 10 Sensitivity training, Study guide — Sensitivity training
2. D — Facts and observations
Reports should stick to factual information and observations rather than opinions and assumptions.
Notebooks, reports and statements · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 4 Report writing, Study guide — Report content
3. B — The National Use of Force Model
The National Use of Force Model is a situational model that links the subject's behaviour to an appropriate response.
Use of force theory · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 11 Use of force theory, Study guide — Use of force theory
4. C — 75 minutes
The appointment is two hours long, but 75 minutes of it is the time allowed to complete the test.
PSISA and getting licensed · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, Study guide — About the test
5. B — It relies on vision alone
Fixed surveillance relies on only one sense, vision, whereas foot patrol lets the guard use sight, hearing, smell and touch.
Patrols and surveillance · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 3 Basic security procedures, Study guide — Surveillance (non-mobile patrol)
6. B — To respond fast and report properly
The study guide tells guards to learn their employer's first aid policies, including accident reporting, so they can respond to emergencies as effectively and quickly as possible.
Emergency level first aid · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 12 Emergency level first aid, Study guide — What is first aid?
7. D — A trespass offence
Refusing to leave immediately when directed by the occupier or an authorized person, such as a guard, is one of the ways to commit trespass.
Trespass to Property Act · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 8 Legal authorities, Trespass to Property Act s. 2(1) — Trespass an offence
8. B — So information they obtain is admissible
Knowing the Evidence Acts helps guards make sure the information and evidence they gather can be admitted in court.
Canadian legal system and evidence · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 7 Canadian legal system, Study guide Section 7 — Canadian legal system
9. D — An ambulance
10-52 means request ambulance; 10-51 is request tow truck and 10-78 is request assistance.
Effective communication and 10 codes · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 9 Effective communications, Study guide Appendix — APCO 10 codes
10. A — At least 1.5 centimetres
The chest lettering must be upper case, in a contrasting colour and no less than 1.5 cm high; the 10 cm rule is for the back.
Licence rules, uniforms and equipment · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, O. Reg. 362/07 s. 2(2) — Words on the chest
11. C — Report the refusal to the employer or supervisor
After refusing, the worker must promptly report the circumstances to the employer or supervisor, who must investigate in the worker's presence.
Health and safety, WHMIS · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 5 Health and safety, OHSA s. 43(4) — Report of refusal
12. C — A breach of the Code of Conduct
The code forbids a licensee from wilfully or negligently making a false statement or complaint against another licensee.
Code of Conduct and public complaints · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, O. Reg. 363/07 s. 2(2)(c) — False statements
13. C — To deprive the owner of the thing
Section 322(1) defines theft as fraudulently and without colour of right taking or converting anything with intent to deprive the owner of it, temporarily or absolutely. A profit motive is not required.
Arrest powers and other laws · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 8 Legal authorities, Criminal Code s. 322(1) — Theft
14. A — Recognize it and get additional help
Guards must recognize when an emergency is beyond their job specifications and requires additional assistance, and know whom to contact.
Emergency response, fire and alarms · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 6 Emergency response preparation, Training syllabus Section 6 — Potential roles
15. A — So they can be located in an emergency
Logged times let guards find visitors while they are on site during an emergency, or identify them after they have left.
Duties, access, crowd and traffic control · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 3 Basic security procedures, Study guide — Access control
16. C — People with mental health issues
Interpersonal skills in the syllabus include showing sensitivity and empathy to others, for example different cultures, persons with disabilities, human rights issues and mental health issues.
Sensitivity and human rights · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 10 Sensitivity training, Training syllabus Section 9 — Interpersonal skills
17. B — Only when the motive is evident
The why question describes motives only if they are evident; guessing would turn facts into assumptions.
Notebooks, reports and statements · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 4 Report writing, Study guide — Report content
18. A — The guard is criminally responsible for the excess
Section 26 makes anyone authorized to use force criminally responsible for any excess of force.
Use of force theory · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 11 Use of force theory, Criminal Code s. 26 — Excessive force
19. B — 40 hours
The ministry syllabus sets a minimum of 40 hours with first aid included, or 33.5 hours if first aid certification is not part of the course.
PSISA and getting licensed · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, Training syllabus — Training content and program length
20. C — Areas may be blocked by fire or a chemical leak
Planned alternate routes let a guard keep moving if an emergency such as a fire, explosion or chemical leak makes an area inaccessible.
Patrols and surveillance · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 3 Basic security procedures, Study guide — Patrolling
21. D — A valid emergency first aid certificate
The Training and Testing regulation requires a valid St. John Ambulance Emergency First Aid certificate, or its equivalent, before the licensing test.
Emergency level first aid · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 12 Emergency level first aid, O. Reg. 26/10 s. 2(1)(a.1) — Training and testing
22. D — Doing an activity that is prohibited there
Trespass includes entering where entry is prohibited, engaging in a prohibited activity, or not leaving immediately when told to.
Trespass to Property Act · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 8 Legal authorities, Trespass to Property Act s. 2(1) — Trespass an offence
23. D — Prepare witnesses for testimony
Guards may be required to prepare for legal proceedings, present evidence, prepare themselves and witnesses for testimony and follow up on the outcome of court proceedings.
Canadian legal system and evidence · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 7 Canadian legal system, Study guide — Canada's court system
24. D — 10-74
10-74 means negative. 10-4 and 10-69 both mean message received, and 10-12 means stand by.
Effective communication and 10 codes · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 9 Effective communications, Study guide Appendix — APCO 10 codes
25. A — $250,000
Business entities face fines of up to $250,000, ten times the maximum for an individual.
Licence rules, uniforms and equipment · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, PSISA s. 45(2) — Penalties for business entities
26. C — Suppliers, workers and employers
WHMIS assigns responsibilities to suppliers, workers and employers so that hazard information reaches everyone who needs it.
Health and safety, WHMIS · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 5 Health and safety, Study guide — WHMIS
27. A — No, concealing identity for duties is exempt
The ban on misrepresenting your licence does not apply to a licensee concealing their identity as a guard in order to carry out their duties.
Code of Conduct and public complaints · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, O. Reg. 363/07 s. 2(3) — Concealing identity
28. D — Not use or disclose it
Personal information handled as part of security duties should not be used or disclosed, in line with PIPEDA and other privacy laws.
Arrest powers and other laws · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 8 Legal authorities, Study guide — PIPEDA
29. A — The employer or client
The role is set by the employer or client and should be documented before the guard starts working on the site.
Emergency response, fire and alarms · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 6 Emergency response preparation, Study guide — Potential roles of a security guard during an emergency
30. D — Creating a barricade or staging area
Under crowd control, the syllabus lists how to create a barricade or staging area and how to lock down a facility.
Duties, access, crowd and traffic control · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 3 Basic security procedures, Training syllabus Section 3 — Basic elements of security
31. B — Education
The guide lists ethnic background, education, religion and gender among the differences that can give rise to prejudice.
Sensitivity and human rights · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 10 Sensitivity training, Study guide — Sensitivity training
32. C — Keep it with you or secured
Guards must not leave their notebook unattended where a member of the public could access it.
Notebooks, reports and statements · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 4 Report writing, Study guide — Note-taking
33. B — The act is reasonable in the circumstances
Section 34 requires a reasonable belief that force or a threat is being used, a defensive purpose, and an act that is reasonable in the circumstances.
Use of force theory · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 11 Use of force theory, Criminal Code s. 34(1) — Defence of person
34. D — 62%
The study guide sets the cut score for the security guard test at 62 percent, set by a panel of subject matter experts.
PSISA and getting licensed · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, Study guide — About the test
35. B — So patrols are not predictable
Varying timing and route stops patrols from becoming routine, which would let would-be intruders predict when an area is unwatched.
Patrols and surveillance · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 3 Basic security procedures, Study guide — Patrolling
36. A — Adults
The syllabus lists choking for adults, along with one-rescuer CPR for adults, as required first aid topics.
Emergency level first aid · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 12 Emergency level first aid, Training syllabus Section 12 — Minimum requirements
37. C — As an aggravating factor
Being on the premises more than 24 hours after notice to leave is an aggravating factor, even if the person left in between.
Trespass to Property Act · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 8 Legal authorities, Trespass to Property Act s. 2(3) — Aggravating factors
38. A — A guilty plea or a finding of guilt after trial
The court must be satisfied of guilt either by the accused admitting guilt (pleading guilty) or by finding the person guilty after a trial.
Canadian legal system and evidence · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 7 Canadian legal system, Study guide — Criminal law
39. B — Suspicious vehicle
10-37 means suspicious vehicle and 10-38 means stop suspicious vehicle. An intoxicated driver is 10-55.
Effective communication and 10 codes · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 9 Effective communications, Study guide Appendix — APCO 10 codes
40. B — Bodyguards and loss prevention personnel
The uniform rule has two exceptions: people acting as bodyguards and people working to prevent loss through theft or sabotage, such as loss prevention.
Licence rules, uniforms and equipment · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, PSISA s. 35(3) — Uniform exception
41. A — Workers must not race or horseplay
Section 28(2)(c) says no worker shall engage in any prank, contest, feat of strength, unnecessary running or rough and boisterous conduct.
Health and safety, WHMIS · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 5 Health and safety, OHSA s. 28(2)(c) — Duties of workers
42. C — Profane or abusive language is prohibited
Guards must refrain from profane, abusive or insulting language or actions, or any uncivil actions toward members of the public.
Code of Conduct and public complaints · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, O. Reg. 363/07 s. 2(1)(e) — Individual licensees
43. A — Yes, secrecy is not required
Section 322(3) says a taking or conversion can be fraudulent even when it is done without secrecy or any attempt at concealment.
Arrest powers and other laws · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 8 Legal authorities, Criminal Code s. 322(3) — Secrecy
44. B — The guard's own safety
During alarm response the guide states that the guard's own safety is the priority, and guards should stay in contact with others.
Emergency response, fire and alarms · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 6 Emergency response preparation, Study guide — Alarm response
45. B — Secure the scene until police arrive
The guide notes that guards can support police by securing crime scenes until officers arrive and by being a source of information.
Duties, access, crowd and traffic control · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 3 Basic security procedures, Study guide — Duties of a security guard
46. D — Communication difficulties
The syllabus names communication difficulties and misinterpretation of gestures as issues that can arise, and teaches how to approach people in a way that minimizes miscommunication.
Sensitivity and human rights · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 10 Sensitivity training, Training syllabus Section 10 — Outline
47. B — The notebook
The notebook is used every day to give an account of the shift's events, so the guide calls it arguably the most important tool.
Notebooks, reports and statements · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 4 Report writing, Study guide — Note-taking
48. A — A person in excited delirium
Positional asphyxia can happen to anyone being restrained, but the risk is much higher for people suffering from excited delirium.
Use of force theory · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 11 Use of force theory, Study guide — Positional asphyxia
49. C — A locksmith
The Act lists locksmiths among the people it does not apply to; loss prevention, bodyguards and patrol work are all security guard work.
PSISA and getting licensed · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, PSISA s. 2(7) — Non-application
50. A — Water shut-offs, alarm panels and extinguishers
A guard should know where telephones, water shut-off valves, electrical and alarm panels, light switches and emergency equipment are located.
Patrols and surveillance · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 3 Basic security procedures, Study guide — Patrolling
51. C — 6.5 hours in class
The syllabus suggests 6.5 hours in class for emergency-level first aid certification. That is the difference between the 40-hour and 33.5-hour minimum training programs.
Emergency level first aid · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 12 Emergency level first aid, Training syllabus Section 12 — Suggested duration
52. B — Only a police officer
Arrest after a fresh departure from the premises is a power the Act gives to police officers only.
Trespass to Property Act · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 8 Legal authorities, Trespass to Property Act s. 10 — Arrest off premises
53. C — The Criminal Code
The bulk of federal criminal law is placed in one comprehensive statute, the Criminal Code.
Canadian legal system and evidence · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 7 Canadian legal system, Study guide — Criminal law
54. B — Spatial distance
The syllabus covers verbal and non-verbal principles including posture, tone, assertiveness, spatial distance, eye contact and facial expressions.
Effective communication and 10 codes · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 9 Effective communications, Training syllabus Section 9 — Communication
55. A — Return it to the Registrar immediately
Every licence is the property of the Crown and must be returned to the Registrar immediately when it is suspended or revoked.
Licence rules, uniforms and equipment · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, PSISA s. 37 — Return of licence
56. D — In a safe place near their work station
Until the investigation ends, the worker stays in a safe place as near as reasonably possible to the work station and available to the employer.
Health and safety, WHMIS · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 5 Health and safety, OHSA s. 43(5) — Worker to remain in safe place
57. D — When it is frivolous or not in good faith
The Registrar may decline a complaint that is frivolous, vexatious or not made in good faith, but must notify the complainant with reasons.
Code of Conduct and public complaints · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 2 The PSISA and ministry Code of Conduct, PSISA s. 19(4) — Registrar may decline
58. A — Summary conviction offence
Section 175 makes causing a disturbance an offence punishable on summary conviction only. That matters for arrest: the s. 494(1)(a) power covers only indictable offences.
Arrest powers and other laws · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 8 Legal authorities, Criminal Code s. 175(1) — Causing a disturbance
59. B — Damaged or worn fire suppressors
The study guide's list of things to watch for includes damage or deterioration of fire suppressors, along with flammables near ignition sources and blocked corridors and exits.
Emergency response, fire and alarms · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 6 Emergency response preparation, Study guide — Prevention and detection of fires
60. D — A reflective vest or cuffs
Proper reflective vests or cuffs must be worn so drivers can see the guard.
Duties, access, crowd and traffic control · Based on: Ontario Security Guard Study Guide (ontario.ca, October 2021), Ch. 3 Basic security procedures, Study guide — Traffic control and parking

Original practice questions by Canada Exam Prep, written from the official handbook. Not official test questions. Free to print for personal study.

FAQ

Security guard practice test (printable PDF): common questions

Does the ministry publish the security guard test as a PDF?

No. The test questions are not released. The ministry publishes the Security Guard Study Guide online and the Training Syllabus for Security Guards, and the test is based on the topics of the basic training course. Every question on this sheet is original and cites the section it comes from.

What score should I aim for on this sheet?

The real cut score is 62 percent, which is about 38 of 60. Aim for 48 or more here before you book, so a few unfamiliar questions on test day do not put you near the line. The test fee is $39.55 with HST for each attempt, so a retake is worth avoiding.

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Press the print button and pick Save as PDF as the printer. Menus, buttons and ads are hidden in the printed version, and the answer key starts on a new page after question 60.

Ontario Security Guard Practice Test – Printable PDF