The security industry has been struggling with a shortage of security guards for years. The corona pandemic has only increased this shortage. It is therefore not inconceivable that a number of large-scale events will also have to be canceled this year due to a shortage of security personnel. Fortunately, the improved collective labor agreement for security guards offers hope for the future of the security industry.
The situation before and after corona
Before the outbreak of the corona pandemic, the security industry was already struggling with a shortage of security guards. During the pandemic, mainly due to lockdown measures, the demand for certain types of security temporarily decreased enormously. Consider, for example, event security, catering security and airport security. As a result, many security guards left the industry. When the measures were lifted, the need for security guards quickly increased again. The shortage of security guards then turned out to be enormous.
Situation now
Since 2022, the number of security guards has increased slightly due to the return of security guards to the industry. Yet the shortage is still present and it will be exciting when the event season starts again and the demand for security increases again.
Improved collective labor agreement
A recent improvement of the collective labor agreement for security guards can contribute to solving the shortage of security guards. The new collective labor agreement includes a substantial wage increase, which means that security guards will benefit by 20 to 24 percent. This could lead to more influx of security guards in the future.
Future of the security industry
Although the improved collective bargaining agreement offers hope for the future of the security industry, it will not lead to an increase in new security professionals overnight. After all, training to become a security guard takes several years and there are more factors that play a role in making the profession attractive, such as working conditions and opportunities for personal growth and development. It is therefore important that the security industry continues to invest in the development of its employees and continues to look for ways to make the profession more attractive to new employees.
Conclusion
The shortage of security guards remains a challenge for the security industry, despite the return of employees and the improved collective labor agreement. It is important that the industry continues to invest in its employees and to look for ways to make the security profession more attractive to new employees. In this way, the sector can continue to contribute to a safe society and the shortage of security guards can be solved in the future.