Can I Work in Security at a Clinic With Aggressive Patients?

Answered by Shaykh Irshaad Sedick

Question

Is it permissible to work in security at a clinic that cares for patients with severe aggression or psychological disorders, where the role involves ensuring safety and preventing escalation?

Answer

In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate.

Yes, it is permissible to work in such a role. In fact, this type of work is not only lawful but commendable, as it serves the critical purpose of protecting vulnerable individuals—patients, staff, and the wider community.

Allah (Most High) says: “And assist one another in righteousness and piety…” [Quran, 5:2]

Helping to maintain safety and prevent harm is an act of service and compassion. As long as the work itself does not involve participating in anything Islamically prohibited, there is no issue with taking on such a responsibility—and, insha’Allah, it will be a source of reward.

That said, if the environment is too intimidating or causes you significant psychological or emotional distress, it would be wise to consider an alternative line of work that still allows you to contribute meaningfully without compromising your well-being.

And Allah knows best.

[Shaykh] Irshaad Sedick
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Shaykh Irshaad Sedick was raised in South Africa in a traditional Muslim family. He graduated from Dar al-Ulum al-Arabiyyah al-Islamiyyah in Strand, Western Cape, under the guidance of the late world-renowned scholar Shaykh Taha Karaan (Allah have mercy on him), where he taught.

Shaykh Irshaad received Ijaza from many luminaries of the Islamic world, including Shaykh Taha Karaan, Shaykh Muhammad Awama, Shaykh Muhammad Hasan Hitu, and Mawlana Abdul Hafeez Makki, among others.

He is the author of the text “The Musnad of Ahmad ibn Hanbal: A Hujjah or not?” He has been the Director of the Discover Islam Centre, and for six years, he has been the Khatib of Masjid Ar-Rashideen, Mowbray, Cape Town.

Shaykh Irshaad has fifteen years of teaching experience at some of the leading Islamic institutes in Cape Town. He is currently building an Islamic podcast, education, and media platform called ‘Isnad Academy’ and has completed his Master’s degree in the study of Islam at the University of Johannesburg. He has a keen interest in healthy Prophetic living and fitness.