Nationwide security guards training initiative kicks off with labour of love from ministry, police, and army
A nationwide training initiative targeting security guards is set to be launched, courtesy of the Labour Ministry, police force, and army. This initiative, aimed at improving the skill set of guards, was discussed yesterday in a meeting convened by Labour Minister Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn. Also in attendance were Watcharapol Bussamongkol, ex-president of the Security Services Association of Thailand (SSAT), and representatives from the Department of Labour Protection and Welfare.
The meeting’s core discussions centred on enhancing guards’ welfare, rights, and professional development. Phiphat confirmed an agreement to create training courses and carry out an assessment of guards’ skills to ensure they meet the required standards. This improvement in skills could potentially elevate the guards’ pay scale, particularly for those with self-defence or combat abilities.
The proposal’s objectives include increasing the wages of security guards, reducing staff attrition, and addressing the current scarcity of security guards in the market. The SSAT suggested incorporating a section on social welfare benefits in the proposed courses. This will pave the way for employers to fully comprehend their responsibilities, while guards become aware of their entitlements such as wages, overtime, and additional benefits.
Phiphat voiced his opinion that security guards, given their versatility and long working hours, should earn more than the minimum wage.
“Enhancing their skills will not only increase their income but also instil a sense of pride in their profession.”
The Labour Ministry, in collaboration with the Royal Thai Police Headquarters and the army, will supply instructors for the training programme. Bussamongkol revealed that the SSAT encompasses 400,000 security guards nationwide and he expressed gratitude towards the ministry for its endeavours to uplift the quality of life for guards.
In related Labour Ministry news, newly recruited civil servants in Thailand are set to receive a salary increase of 20% over the next two years. The decision, approved by the Cabinet, was announced by Danucha Pichayanan, the secretary-general of the National Economic and Social Development Council. Read more about the story HERE.
