Dlamini BlessingHere is a curated overview of Protective Force, a privately-owned security company based in Alberton, Gauteng. The company offers a range of services including armed response, guard patrols, CCTV monitoring, and specialised divisions for cleaning and landscaping .
Before diving into the details, it is worth understanding the different types of security services you might encounter. Armed Response involves trained officers who carry firearms and are dispatched to alarm activations or emergencies. Guarding Services include both armed and unarmed officers who patrol premises, control access points, and provide a visible deterrent. CCTV Monitoring uses camera systems to watch properties remotely from a control centre. Neighbourhood Watch Patrols involve dedicated vehicles patrolling residential areas to deter crime. Knowing these terms will help you compare security providers more accurately.
Protective Force Services, Jobs and Contact Details (South Africa)
Overview and Core Services
Protective Force was founded by Eugene Jacobs, who began patrolling the streets of Brackenhurst on a bicycle in 1989. Over the years, the company grew from a small neighbourhood watch operation into a large security provider, incorporating guarding, armed response, and later cleaning and landscaping divisions. The company holds PSIRA accreditation and its motto is “Service beyond customer expectation”.
Here is a detailed breakdown of their core service categories.
24/7 Armed Response
Protective Force offers 24-hour armed response services for homes and businesses . When an alarm is triggered, specially trained armed response officers are dispatched to the property. They are fully briefed on the details of your property and can manage escalations to emergency services like SAPS if required . The company works closely with Community Policing Forums (CPFs) and Neighbourhood Watches to ensure fast local response times .
Dedicated Crime Prevention Patrols
Protective Force provides dedicated crime prevention patrol vehicles in neighbourhoods, operating 24 hours a day . These vehicles conduct regular patrols, checking vulnerable points and reporting issues in real time. The presence of these patrols serves as a visible deterrent to criminal activity. A key feature is that clients are given the cell phone number of their area patrol car, which can be contacted directly if they feel unsafe for any reason .
Armed Escort Service
For clients who enter or leave their homes during very early or late hours, Protective Force offers an armed escort service . An armed officer will accompany you to ensure your safety when entering or exiting your property.
Mobile Panic Application
Protective Force has a mobile app that allows clients to send an instant panic alert . When the panic button is activated, the control centre receives the signal with your precise location. Operators then contact you to determine the type of emergency and can dispatch armed response, ambulance services, or SAPS as needed .
Estate and Complex Security
For estates, townhouse complexes, and other enclosed areas, Protective Force offers localised monitoring services . By monitoring from a central point within the complex, reaction times are greatly reduced, and external armed response is often not required. This can significantly lower monthly security costs for residents .
Guarding Services
Protective Force provides both armed and unarmed guarding for commercial and residential properties . Services include asset protection, access control, and perimeter protection. The company has its own training centre to ensure officers are trained to the highest standard .
CCTV and Alarm Systems
Protective Force designs, installs, and monitors burglar alarms and CCTV systems for homes and businesses of any size using the latest technologies . Their services include CCTV analysis, installation of alarm systems, and 24/7 central station monitoring .
Additional Services: Cleaning and Landscaping
Unlike many security companies, Protective Force has diversified into property maintenance . They offer expert cleaning services for corporate and hospitality clients, as well as landscaping and gardening services. This makes Protective Force a one-stop solution for property needs, from security to grounds maintenance .
Quick Comparison of Services
| Service Type | Best For | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| 24/7 Armed Response | Homes & businesses needing rapid emergency support | Trained armed officers, direct SAPS liaison, 24/7 availability |
| Dedicated Patrol Vehicles | Neighbourhoods seeking visible crime deterrence | Direct patrol car contact, regular patrols, strong community presence |
| Armed Escort Service | Residents entering/exiting properties at high-risk hours | Personal armed protection, enhanced safety |
| Mobile Panic App | Individuals wanting instant emergency alerts | Location tracking, direct control centre link, multi-agency dispatch |
| Estate & Complex Security | Townhouse complexes and gated estates | Localised monitoring, faster response times, lower monthly costs |
| Guarding Services | Commercial & residential properties needing access control | Armed/unarmed guards, asset protection, entry management |
| CCTV & Alarm Installation | Homes & businesses requiring surveillance systems | System design, installation, 24/7 monitoring of alarms & cameras |
| Cleaning & Landscaping | Corporate & hospitality clients | Property maintenance, cleaning, gardening & landscaping |
Hidden Costs and Considerations
When hiring a security company like Protective Force, there are several potential hidden costs and practical considerations to keep in mind.
Alarm System Installation: If you do not already have an alarm system compatible with their monitoring, you may need to pay for installation of new equipment. Ask whether the quoted monthly fee includes monitoring only or also covers alarm system installation and maintenance.
Panic Button and Mobile App Accessories: Panic buttons are often an additional cost beyond the base security subscription . The mobile panic application may be included, but confirm whether there are any data usage charges or if the app works over WiFi only.
Patrol Vehicle Coverage Areas: Protective Force’s dedicated patrol vehicles are primarily focused on Alberton and surrounding areas . If you live outside these areas, the availability and response time of dedicated patrols may differ. Confirm that your specific suburb is covered by their local patrol network.
Response Time Guarantees: Ask about average response times for your specific area. For estates using localised monitoring, response times are typically faster than for individual homes relying on external response.
Cleaning and Landscaping Costs: If you engage Protective Force for cleaning or landscaping in addition to security, these services are separate contracts with their own pricing structures.
Jobs at Protective Force
Based on available information, Protective Force employs security officers, patrol officers, control room operators, and administrative staff . The company has its own training centre where security officers are trained . There is no indication that Protective Force offers PSIRA training to the general public; rather, the training centre appears to be for their own employees.
Potential Job Roles at Protective Force
Based on their services, Protective Force would likely employ people in the following categories.
Armed Response Officer: These officers patrol designated areas and respond to alarm activations from client properties. They carry firearms and are trained in rapid response procedures. The role requires a valid PSIRA grade (typically Grade C or higher), firearms competency, and a valid driver’s license. Officers must be calm under pressure and able to make quick decisions in emergencies .
Patrol Officer: These officers drive dedicated patrol vehicles, conduct regular patrols of neighbourhoods, and scan discs installed on client premises to prove they were present . The role requires a valid driver’s license and PSIRA registration.
Control Room Operator: Operators monitor alarm signals, CCTV feeds, and panic alerts from a central station . They assess situations and dispatch appropriate response teams. Strong attention to detail and the ability to stay focused during long shifts are essential. PSIRA registration is typically required.
Security Guard (Armed or Unarmed): Unarmed guards may be deployed to residential complexes, commercial properties, or industrial sites for access control, patrols, and general security duties. Armed guards carry firearms. The role requires PSIRA registration and basic security training .
Administrative and Sales Roles: As a medium-sized security company, Protective Force would need administrative staff to handle client accounts, invoicing, scheduling of guards, and general office management. Sales staff would handle new client acquisition and neighbourhood watch sign-ups .
Cleaning and Landscaping Staff: Protective Force has dedicated divisions for cleaning and gardening services . These roles do not require PSIRA registration but may have their own qualification requirements.
How to Find Current Job Openings
Specific current job postings for Protective Force are not listed in the available search results. Interested candidates should take a proactive approach.
Contact Directly: Use the contact details in the table below to call or email the company and enquire about available positions. Ask to speak with someone in human resources or operations. Introduce yourself and explain which role you are interested in.
Visit the Office in Person: Protective Force has a physical address at 34 Hennie Alberts Street in Brackenhurst, Alberton . Visiting in person to submit a CV can demonstrate initiative.
Enquire About the Training Centre: Protective Force has its own training centre . Ask whether they offer training that leads to employment, or whether they recruit trainees directly.
Monitor Security Job Portals: Websites like security-jobs.co.za sometimes list openings with Protective Force . Check these portals regularly.
Pros and Cons Summary of Working at Protective Force
To help you decide if a career with Protective Force is right for you, here is a quick summary based on available information.
Pros:
Established company with roots dating back to 1989, indicating stability and experience . Privately owned, described as the biggest privately owned security company in the South of Johannesburg . Has its own training centre, which means employees may receive in-house training . Diversified services across security, cleaning, and landscaping may offer varied employment opportunities beyond traditional guarding . PSIRA accredited, demonstrating compliance with industry regulations .
Cons:
Based primarily in Alberton and surrounding areas, so opportunities may be limited to this geographic region . Specific salary information is not publicly available, so you would need to enquire directly. Security guard work involves shift work, including nights, weekends, and public holidays. Physical demands including standing for long periods and patrolling in all weather conditions.
Tips for Job Seekers in the Security Industry
Get PSIRA Registered: The Private Security Industry Regulatory Authority (PSIRA) regulates all security service providers and their employees in South Africa. Most security roles require at least a Grade C or Grade D registration. Getting registered before you apply shows initiative.
Obtain Firearms Competency for Armed Roles: If you are applying for an armed response or armed guarding position, you need firearms competency certification. The training includes a written exam and a practical shooting test. Start this process early as it can take several months.
Have a Valid Driver’s License: Most patrol and armed response roles require a valid Code 8 driver’s license. Ensure your license is current and that you have a clean driving record.
Highlight Local Area Knowledge: For roles with Protective Force specifically, knowledge of Alberton, Brackenhurst, and surrounding areas is valuable. Security personnel who know local streets and high-risk areas are more effective.
Be Prepared for Shift Work: Security is a 24/7 industry. Be clear in your application that you are willing to work night shifts, weekend shifts, and public holidays.
Check Your Criminal Record: PSIRA requires a clean criminal record for registration. If you have any criminal history, disclose this honestly during the application process.
What to Pack and What to Leave Behind (For Security Jobs)
If you are starting a job with Protective Force or any similar security company, here is what you should have and what you should avoid.
Essentials for Armed Response or Patrol Officers:
– A good quality torch or headlamp with swappable rechargeable batteries. Load-shedding is inevitable, and you will be patrolling in darkness.
– A notebook and pen. Incident reports are legal documents and must be accurate.
– A watch. Do not rely solely on your phone, which may run out of battery.
– Comfortable, durable safety boots. You will be standing and walking for hours.
– A water bottle and packed meals. Depending on your shift and patrol area, you may not be able to stop to buy food.
– A power bank for your phone if your role requires mobile communication.
What to leave behind:
– Do not bring personal weapons. You may only carry the firearm issued by the employer if you are in an armed role.
– Do not bring expensive jewellery or large amounts of cash to work.
– Do not bring portable speakers or headphones. Listening to music on duty is dangerous; you need to hear everything around you.
Contact Details
Here is the verified contact information for Protective Force based on multiple sources.
| Contact Method | Details |
|---|---|
| Phone Number | 011 867 1234 |
| Secondary Number | 086 103 0030 |
| Alternative Number (older listing) | 083 375 573 |
| Website | www.protectiveforce.co.za |
Physical Address
34 Hennie Alberts Street, Brackenhurst, Alberton, Gauteng, 1448
Operating Hours
Monday to Sunday, 24 hours a day
PSIRA Registration
PSIRA accredited and registered (specific registration number not listed in available sources).
Location and Service Areas
Protective Force is based in Brackenhurst, Alberton, and operates primarily in the South of Johannesburg and surrounding Gauteng areas . They have dedicated patrol vehicles covering neighbourhoods including Brackenhurst and surrounding Alberton communities .
Company History
The roots of the company date back to 1989 when Eugene Jacobs started patrolling the streets of Brackenhurst at night on his bicycle. Later, he rented his father’s car at night and paid school friends to do his shifts. His mother managed the base station while he was at school. The business grew, and Eugene started a guarding division, subsequently purchasing about three smaller security companies while keeping the Protective Force name. About four years ago (relative to the 2017 source), the company diversified into cleaning, landscaping, and maintenance divisions.
Pros and Cons Summary for Clients
To help you decide if Protective Force is the right security partner for your home or business, here is a quick summary.
Pros:
Established company with over 25 years of experience (roots back to 1989) . Privately owned with a strong community focus, described as the biggest privately owned security company in the South of Johannesburg . Wide range of services including armed response, patrols, CCTV, guarding, and property maintenance . Dedicated patrol vehicles with direct cell phone numbers for clients . Localised monitoring for estates reduces response times and monthly costs . PSIRA accredited, ensuring compliance with industry standards . Own training centre for security officers .
Cons:
Service area appears concentrated in Alberton and surrounding areas of Gauteng . Pricing is not publicly listed, so you must request a quote. As a smaller privately-owned company, they may have less brand recognition than large national corporations like ADT or Fidelity.
Tips for Choosing a Security Provider
Verify PSIRA Registration: Ask for Protective Force’s PSIRA registration number and verify it on the PSIRA website. An expired or invalid registration means the company is operating illegally.
Ask About Response Times: Request estimated response times for your specific area. For estates using localised monitoring, response times are typically faster.
Inquire About the Panic App: Ask about the mobile panic application, including whether it works during load-shedding and whether there are any additional costs for its use.
Check Neighbourhood Coverage: Confirm that your specific suburb is covered by their dedicated patrol vehicles. They serve Alberton and surrounding communities but may not cover all areas of Gauteng.
Ask About the Training Centre: Enquire whether the security officers deployed to your site have been trained at Protective Force’s own training centre, which suggests higher training standards.
Understand the Contract: Ask about minimum contract length, cancellation terms, and what happens if you want to terminate services early.
Load-Shedding Preparedness
Given South Africa’s ongoing electricity crisis, load-shedding is a critical factor to consider when choosing any security provider.
Control Room Power: Ask whether Protective Force’s control centre has backup power (generators, inverters, or batteries) to ensure continued monitoring during load-shedding. If the control room loses power, no one is monitoring alarms or cameras.
Patrol Vehicle Communication: Patrol officers rely on radios and communication equipment. Ask whether these systems have backup power or alternative communication methods during extended outages.
Client Equipment: For your own property, ensure your alarm system and CCTV cameras have backup batteries. A security system without backup power is useless during load-shedding.
Mobile Panic App: Ask whether the mobile panic app operates on cellular data rather than WiFi, as WiFi may go down during load-shedding if the router has no backup power.
Conclusion
Protective Force is an established South African security company with roots in the Alberton community dating back to 1989 . The company offers a comprehensive range of services including 24/7 armed response, dedicated neighbourhood patrol vehicles, CCTV and alarm system installation and monitoring, armed and unarmed guarding, and specialised divisions for cleaning and landscaping . They are PSIRA accredited and have their own training centre for security officers .
For clients seeking security services in Alberton and surrounding areas of Gauteng, Protective Force offers localised monitoring for estates, dedicated patrol vehicles with direct cell phone numbers, and a mobile panic application for instant emergency alerts . Their long history and community focus distinguish them from larger national competitors.
For job seekers, Protective Force represents an opportunity to work for a company with an established reputation and in-house training facilities. Positions such as armed response officers, patrol officers, control room operators, and guards are likely available, as well as roles in their cleaning and landscaping divisions .
Whether you are seeking employment in the security industry or looking for a reliable security partner for your home or business in Gauteng, contact Protective Force using the details provided in this article. Ask the hard questions about PSIRA registration, load-shedding preparedness, response times, and contract terms. A well-chosen security partner, like a well-chosen employer, makes all the difference in safety, career growth, and peace of mind.