Nashville security company helping businesses enforce mask mandates

NASHVILLE, Tenn (WTVF) — As more mask mandates are being issued in counties across the state, there’s becoming a growing need for enforcement.

Before you walk into your favorite Nashville fast food chicken restaurant looking for an 11-piece meal, you've got to make sure you have a piece of fabric covering your nose and mouth.

Security officer Gregory Forrest, the owner of Strike Shield Security, says local businesses have been hiring more security officers to enforce the city’s mask mandate.

"It’s increased a whole lot and a lot of big and small businesses have been requiring for security, temperature checks and also to be more safe," said Forrest.

Forrest says, thankfully, he hasn’t had many confrontations. He believes that’s because people are being greeted by him.

"It takes pressure off the employee to fit in that security role," said Forrest, "We’re already in uniform, looking the part so when they see us, okay let me get my mask."

Forrest says it’s simple: no shirt, no shoes, no mask, no service.

"You want to be calm about the situation, if they’re not putting their mask on more likely when they go into the facility they’re not going to be served service."

He says he’s here to do his part in slowing the spread of COVID-19.