The inquirer asks, “I work as a security guard at an institution, and my duties require me to remain at my post. Consequently, I miss the Friday prayer and pray Dhuhr instead. I have tried to change my work schedule but was unable to do so. What is the ruling on this case?”

It is established in Islamic jurisprudence that any excuse which legally permits a person to miss congregational prayer likewise permits them to miss the Friday prayer. Among the recognized excuses is the fear of harm to oneself or one’s property, or harm to those whom one is obliged to protect and defend.

Since you are assigned to guard that facility, and the time of the Friday prayer falls during your shift, and performing it would compromise your duty to maintain security, then the obligation of attending the Friday prayer is waived for you in this situation. You may perform the Dhuhr prayer instead. It is also advisable to request that management adjust the duty schedules to allow all staff the opportunity to attend the Friday prayer.

And Allah Almighty knows best.