Manitoba brings in new labour rules for security guards

Manitoba is bringing in new labour rules for privatesecurity guards that it says will improve public safety.

The changes include requiring employers to pay guards at least$0.25 over the minimum wage starting this October and $2.25 by2017 to help reduce staff turnover.

The government also wants security guard training manuals reviewed every five years to ensure standards are effective.

Labour Minister Erna Braun says being a security guard is aparticularly risky profession.

Perry Clarke of the private security company Securitas Canadasays he supports the new rules.

Braun says workplace injury statistics show security guards aresix times more likely to need time off work as a result ofviolence in the workplace.

"Every day, security guards put themselves at risk to helpprotect public safety and property," she said in a releaseMonday.

"Building experience in the industry will help security guardsbetter protect the public, property and themselves whenfaced withviolent or aggressive situations."