Airport staff end strike, go back to work

Airports of Thailand staff demonstrate newly installed luggage X-ray and passenger search systems at the eastern part of the Suvarnabhumi airport terminal in June 2012. (Post Today file photo)

Luggage X-ray unit workers at Suvarnabhumi airport have returned to their regular duties after about 300 workers went on strike on Sunday, the business operator said.

The move came after ASM Security Management Co, the luggage x-ray unit contractor at the airport, agreed to eight out of 10 demands made by its employees.

Karn Thongyai, the firm's chief executive officer, said Monday the workers who were on strike had returned to performing their regular duties after the company agreed to meet with the demands including a one-month bonus based on individual performance, public holidays, sick leave and medical fees.

ASM Security Management is a subsidiary of Loxley Co contracted to operate the luggage X-ray unit.

Earlier report: Airport X-ray unit on strike

Mr Karn, however, said the firm declined to accept the other two propositions: setting up a staff provident fund, and higher wages for those who work the night shift.

He said the firm would have to study the details of the fund before it could be considered and the wage increase cannot proceed as shift work was normal practice for the company.

Mr Karn also admitted the problem was caused by a misunderstanding between the company and its employees.

"I admit the problem arose because we failed to forge a clear understanding with our employees. However, I believe the negotiation will produce substantial results," he said.

On Sunday morning, about 300 luggage X-ray unit workers at Suvarnabhumi airport went on strike.

They were replaced temporarily by staff from Don Mueang and other airports, allowing the luggage X-ray unit's operations at Suvarnabhumi to continue uninterrupted in the interim.

The workers on strike gathered to voice their demands in front of the office of ASM Security Management in front of the airport's Concourse A.

They demanded an increase of their base salary from 9,000 to 9,300 baht a month and increases in skills-based and other allowances, overtime rates, travel expenses and welfare benefits.