Security officers working in Tasmania's courts are concerned about their safety because of staff shortages, the United Workers Union says.
Tasmanian state secretary Jannette Armstrong said UWU members had raised concerns.
In recent weeks a shortage of staff has required secondment of Department of Justice and Tasmania Prison Service staff to the Launceston Magistrates Court.
Wilson Security was awarded a Department of Justice tender worth $5.2 million to supply court security from 2018 to 2022.
Ms Armstrong said job insecurity was widespread among guards hired under Wilson Security's contracts.
"Across the state, Wilson Security has a terrible track record of poorly paying workers, giving workers little to no certainty over their shifts, and failing to adequately address workplace safety issues," she said.
"Workers have no access to formal training and are forced to learn on the job.
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"Guards are expected to maintain the safety and security of the court precinct, persons in custody, the general public and themselves. Yet they are given none of the tools or support to do this effectively."
A Department of Justice spokesman said: "Wilson Security Pty Ltd provides contract security services to the Magistrates Court of Tasmania. The level of security required by the court is adjusted daily according to need and risk".
"Wilson Security, together with the Tasmania Prison Service and Tasmania Police, assesses risks and the court responds to the advice provided to ensure the security of the public, staff, detainees and security contractors are met.
"Contractual arrangements entered into by the Department of Justice are commercial-in-confidence, however, when the contract ends it will go out to public tender in accordance with Treasury requirements."
United Workers Union is demanding direct employment of contracted guards working within both the Tasmanian government justice and health departments, allowing workers to have jobs they can count on.
Ms Armstrong did not rule out industrial action to ensure workplace safety.
"United Workers Union firmly believes all workers are entitled to a safe workplace," she said.
"Just because a worker is involved in providing security, does not mean they should be exposed to unnecessary risk."
Justice Minister Elise Archer said: "Operational issues are a matter for the court, however, the Tasmanian Liberals take the security and well-being of staff, detainees, and members of the public very seriously."
The Examiner sought comment from Wilson Security but it did not respond.
Nick Clark
I am the Supreme and Magistrates Court reporter for the Examiner for the past 18 months. My journalism career has clicked over 30 years and encompasses four different spells at Tasmanian newspapers.
I am the Supreme and Magistrates Court reporter for the Examiner for the past 18 months. My journalism career has clicked over 30 years and encompasses four different spells at Tasmanian newspapers.
