PASSENGER and worker safety at Glasgow airport is being put at risk as security staff are forced to go without breaks, their union has warned.

ICTS Central Search employs about 250 people at the airport to handle emergency services as well as screen passengers and deliveries.

But workers have told their union, Unite, that they are being routinely denied legal rights to breaks amid failing shift patterns and staff shortages.

Unite industrial officer Pat McIlvogue warned: “The ICTS Search workers undertake safety and security-critical tasks — but how can they do this effectively when they are mentally and physically exhausted?

“If this situation is not resolved, then Unite will have no option but to ballot our members for industrial action.”

In contrast, Unite members at Edinburgh airport have been celebrating a 12 per cent pay increase in the first pay round since owners EASL signed a recognition agreement with the union.

Unite Scottish deputy secretary Mary Alexander said: “The pay deal demonstrates that when you are a member of Unite, you get better jobs, pay and conditions.”

An ICTS spokesperson said: “There has been no compromise to passenger safety. We are in constant dialogue with the union and we would like to reassure the travelling public that their security, and the welfare of our colleagues, is our priority and there will be no disruptions.”