Tough new regulations for security guard firms and private investigators go into effect starting today.

The changes are the result of the 1999 death of Patrick Shand, who was accused of shoplifting baby food . He died after a violent brawl with an employee and security guard at Loblaws in Agincourt Mall.

People previously exempted from the private investigators and security guards branch, (armored car guards, security consultants, alarm installers and locksmiths) all of whom will now have undergo regular training and testing. That means thousands of security personnel and hundreds of firms are now signing up for retraining.

There will now be at least two classes of licensing under the Private Investigators and Security Guard Act. John Harborman, director of the Private Security and Investigative Services Branch, told 680News that personnel who may need to use force on the job will require specialized training.

“(Training will cover) the use of force and the use of equipment, such as batons and handcuffs.”

Sunil Ram runs his own security firm as welcomes the tighter rules, but says the cost could push some out of business.

“What the training requirements are, it may not be cost-effective for security firms or private investigation firms to continue business,” he said.

Guards and investigators are also required to renew their licenses each year.

The province indicated that it will release more clarification on the changes in the fall.