I RECENTLY saw a security guard who was stationed outside a renowned bakery in a posh locality in Karachi, wiping sweat from his forehead as he stood right under the scorching summer sun. Without a fan, a chair and any kind of shade, he was forced to stand beside the outer component of the air-conditioner that was moderating the temperature for those inside the bakery.

On top of that, the uniform the guard was wearing had a tight fit, and it was made of polyester, which is just not suited to the sweltering summer season. One could imagine the level of heat, exhaustion and helplessness that he had to bear while performing his duty.

The guard represents countless such souls who perform their duties honestly under harsh weather conditions often without basic protections. These guards are expected to work long shifts seven days a week on low salaries and without paid leaves. The wellbeing of security guards is overlooked by businesses that are earning hefty profits while operating in fully air-conditioned environments.

We may not bring upward social mobility in their lives, but we can surely do something to give security guards some kind of relief. For instance, the fabric and colour of guards’ uniform can be replaced by breathable and light-coloured materials suitable for the local climate.

Every guard should be provided with a chair, access to cold drinking water, proper shade to avoid direct contact with sunlight, a fan and at least one weekly day off.

Saima Nazeer
Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 24th, 2025