How GardaWorld Security helped a mining company manage a labour dispute safely and proactively

In the mining sector, labour disputes present significant challenges—human, logistical, and safety-related. Poorly managed, such conflicts can lead to costly disruptions, heightened social tensions, and most critically, risk to people and infrastructure. At GardaWorld Security, we believe that a conflict doesn’t have to escalate into a crisis. With a proactive approach that combines human expertise and cutting-edge technology, we recently demonstrated how it’s possible to manage such a situation effectively—smoothly and with measurable benefits.
 

A forward-thinking client and strategic planning

In the context of a labour dispute involving around 400 unionized employees at a large mining site in Quebec, GardaWorld Security was contracted to support the company in planning and fully managing the event. This partnership began well before tensions arose.
 

“What really made the difference in this case was the client’s foresight. By working with us early on, they enabled us to build a robust contingency plan tailored to the specific characteristics of the site and potential risks,” explains Jimmy Savard, Director of Industrial Security at GardaWorld Security.
 

A comprehensive risk assessment was carried out to identify sensitive zones—such as picket lines, critical infrastructure, and electrical installations—and to recommend specific measures for each type of threat. The clear priority: ensuring the safety of all parties involved, both striking and active workers. 

Deploying a hybrid solution for optimized security

One of the key elements of our strategy was the deployment of a hybrid security solution that combined human presence with advanced technology. This intelligent security model allowed us to provide full site coverage while optimizing operational costs.
 

“We combined the on-site presence of agents trained in conflict management with Mobile Surveillance Units (MSUs) equipped with HD cameras featuring artificial intelligence, thermal imaging, and biometric technology,” said Jimmy Savard. “This setup not only ensures effective monitoring of key areas but also enables rapid response in the event of an incident or potential threat, thanks to our patrollers on site.”
 

All data was transmitted in real time to our ULC-certified national monitoring center, which operates 24/7, as well as to the on-site control center. This interconnection ensured constant vigilance, risk anticipation, and timely targeted interventions when needed. 
 

Enhanced protection for executive members

An often-overlooked aspect of labour disputes is the safety of executives and their families, who can become targets in a tense environment. GardaWorld Security implemented specific measures to ensure their peace of mind, including residential surveillance systems with automatic detection of suspicious activities and close protection services for executives and their families.
 

“We often talk about the issues at the site, but it’s important to remember that stress and risks can extend to executives' homes. By ensuring their safety at home, we also help maintain leadership stability, which is essential during a crisis,” noted Jimmy Savard. 
 

A tailored approach, concrete results

Thanks to this integrated strategy, the client successfully navigated the entire dispute without any major incidents. Infrastructure was protected, relations with striking employees remained controlled, and no significant interruptions to critical operations were reported. Beyond safety, substantial cost savings were also achieved through resource optimization and a reduced need for on-site personnel—without compromising efficiency.
 

This success stems from preparation. By working with companies well before tensions escalate, GardaWorld Security is able to develop customized security plans that account for human, geographic, technological, and financial factors. 
 

Proven expertise in the mining sector

This mining site case adds to a long list of successful GardaWorld Security interventions in labour dispute management. It allows us to continue offering proven, flexible, and above all, human solutions—because at the heart of every intervention are people to protect, relationships to preserve, and environments to secure. 
 

Want to learn more?

Whether you anticipate a conflict or seek to strengthen your current contingency plan, our security experts are here to support you at every stage.
 

Contact our experts to discover how we can help secure your operations, protect your teams, and optimize your costs.