SINGAPORE: The Union of Security Employees (USE) has released the results of its latest survey indicating a significant improvement in the safety of security officers, with a noticeable decline in incidents of violence. The survey, conducted in collaboration with public policy consulting firm Verian, involved 1,006 security personnel and covered the period from June 22 to August 1, 2023.
The findings revealed that 32.7 per cent of security guards surveyed reported experiencing violence while on duty, marking a notable decrease from last year’s 41.1 per cent. Of these incidents, 29.3 per cent involved verbal abuse, while 3.2 per cent encompassed both verbal abuse and physical violence. Security personnel aged 50 and above were identified as a demographic more likely to face violent treatment.
Surprisingly, more than 70 per cent of the perpetrators were members of the general public, with 34 per cent identified as property visitors. The USE reported handling 55 incidents of violence against security personnel through mediation last year, with 23 incidents reported in the first eight months of this year.
USE attributed the decrease in violence to an improved public understanding of security work and heightened cooperation with security personnel. Additionally, recent government revisions to the Private Security Industry Act were noted as a contributing factor in strengthening protection mechanisms for security personnel.
The survey also shed light on the working conditions of security officers, revealing that the median working hours per week stood at 55, with 71 per cent reporting the need for overtime work—defined as exceeding 44 hours per week. Alarming figures showed that 32 per cent of respondents worked more than 62 hours per week.
USE expressed concern about the extended working hours, suggesting that technological tools could alleviate some tasks, allowing security personnel to work more efficiently. The union recommended that service purchasers explore digital solutions to enhance security work, which could reduce the reliance on manpower and result in cost savings.
Encouragingly, the survey demonstrated a positive trend in the acceptance of technology among security personnel. Ninety-nine per cent of respondents felt comfortable using electronic security systems, such as surveillance systems—an increase from 94 per cent last year. Additionally, 90 per cent believed that technology tools made their jobs easier.
On the economic front, the survey indicated that security personnel salaries were generally in line with or above the levels stipulated in the progressive salary model. The median basic salary for junior security guards, for instance, was $1,670, surpassing the base salary of $1,650 outlined in the model. With overtime pay included and provident fund deducted, the total median monthly income reached $2,000.
Notably, 71 per cent of security guards surveyed deemed their salary package fair—an 8 per cent increase from the previous year. The overall job satisfaction rate reached a new high, with 87 per cent expressing contentment in their roles. Over half of the respondents were satisfied with the career advancement opportunities, and nearly 80 per cent believed they were secure from unemployment.
USE pledged to collaborate with labour, management, and the government to safeguard security personnel further and improve their working conditions through legislative amendments and other measures. The union’s commitment extends to addressing security officers’ physical safety and well-being in an evolving and technologically driven landscape.
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