Low pay, dangerous working conditions and union-busting by employers are among the challenges faced by security workers around the world, according to new research.
UNI Global Union, the international federation of service workers unions, conducted the global survey which received responses from more than 11,000 security workers from 35 countries.
Six responses were received from Ireland.
The survey found that in some countries up to 80% of workers reported experiencing retaliation from employers for trade union activity.
According to the research, the majority of security officers feel underpaid, unsafe and have reported incidents of discrimination in the workplace.
"The findings of this survey are a cry for immediate action," said Head of Property Services for UNI Global Union, Michala Lafferty.
"Security workers keep us safe, yet they face daily dangers, discrimination, and inadequate pay. Employer action is long overdue."
"It's time they step up, raise standards and ensure decent pay, safety and respect at work," Ms Lafferty said.
SIPTU said that while the survey was conducted with over 11,000 security workers from 35 countries, its findings will not surprise many involved in the security industry in Ireland.
"This report and its findings, while disturbing, have come at a very opportune time," said SIPTU Deputy General Secretary Ethel Buckley.
"In November, the Irish Government must transpose the EU Directive on Adequate Minimum Wages which calls for the promotion of collective bargaining throughout Member States’ economies," Ms Buckley said.
