The Tasmanian Government has confirmed 40 prison guards have now been stood down at Risdon Prison as a security dispute intensifies.

The maximum and medium security units of the prison near Hobart have been in lockdown since the first 15 workers were sent home yesterday morning after refusing to follow new work routines.

They have safety concerns because the Tactical Response Group is no longer permanently stationed at the jail.

The Public Sector Union held separate meetings with prison management and guards this morning to resolve the matter.

But the union's Mat Johnston says the matter will likely return to the state Industrial Commission.

"There may well be further stand downs today as a result of the impasses continuing this morning," he said.

Police are continuing to help secure the prison, which remains in partial lock down.

Corrections Minister Nick McKim says he will seek an order from the Industrial Commission for the officers to return to work and obey prison management orders.

He will not specify details of the dispute, but described union demands as "highly unreasonable".

"I'm not going to prejudice the likelihood of a successful outcome in these negotiations by engaging in megaphone diplomacy today," he said.

Seven police officers have been placed on duty at the prison to fill the staff shortage.