Siyabonga Nxumalo, a security officer at Helen Joseph Hospital.
News Desk Reporter
Security officers across South Africa often work up to 12-hour shifts at hospitals, malls, office parks and residential gates. They face long hours, verbal abuse and limited access to healthcare, despite being the first point of contact at many institutions.
Hundreds gathered in Johannesburg on Wednesday for the launch of a TB, HIV and AIDS workplace wellness campaign.
The initiative is led by The Association of Private Security Owners of South Africa (TAPSOSA) and supported by the Safety and Security Sector Education and Training Authority (SASSETA). It aims to bring prevention, testing and healthcare services directly to workers.
Private Sector Workers Trade Union General Secretary Mzobanzi Ndabana said, “I am excited to see such an intervention taking care of the lives of officers.”
“There is nothing we can do without security guards, even though they are often insulted at their workstations. To the officers, keep your head up and know that you are important,” added Ndabana.
TAPSOSA President Jones Maphalaphathwa said, “They are the face of the company.”
“When clients or visitors arrive somewhere, the first person they meet is usually a security officer. Yet many of these officers work under extremely difficult conditions,” he added.
He also noted, “Many officers work extended shifts, including overnight duties. Some travel long distances between work and home, leaving little time to visit clinics or hospitals,” and said,
“This project is about taking healthcare services directly to the workplaces and communities where security officers live and work,” said Maphalaphathwa
The campaign includes more than 1,000 peer ambassadors to promote testing and reduce stigma. Labour input will also shape policy.
Maphalaphathwa said, “We do not want policies imposed on workers without their voices being heard,” and added, “This is their project.”
TAPSOSA Treasurer General Thulani Skosana said, “When someone works for 12 hours, they need to be fit and healthy,” and added, “Security officers must remain alert all the time. Their health affects their concentration, their performance and ultimately public safety.”
Healthcare workers conducted HIV testing, blood pressure checks and screenings for about 200 people.
Siyabonga Nxumalo said, “People look down on us sometimes,” and added, “But we are the ones protecting these buildings and helping people every day.”
She continued, “We work long shifts in different environments. I wish more programmes like this, especially for mental health, could also be introduced.”
Donald Senokwanyana said, “We must not be afraid to check our status,” and added, “Not knowing is dangerous. It is better to know whether you are healthy or sick.”
Themba Mbondi said, “As security officers, we face many challenges. But this work helps us provide for our children and support our families.”
Campaign national coordinator Jackson Simon said, “Security officers are not liabilities. They are investments,”
“This campaign is about recognising their value, protecting their health and restoring their dignity.” said Simon.