In an age where bugs and bacteria can travel around the world in a matter of hours, passengers and airport workers want to know that airports are healthy places. That's why security officers who work for HSS at Denver International Airport took to the streets last month.

A recent survey of officers--who, when facing illness, either must report to work sick or go without pay--found several shocking facts:

• 92% of DIA security officers have gone to work sick because they were afraid they would get in trouble for calling off.*

• 89% of DIA security officers have gone to work sick because they could not afford to call off and lose pay.*

• 83% of DIA security officers say that they feel AIRPORT SECURITY AT DIA IS COMPROMISED when security officers are working their posts while they are sick on the job.*

The officers are forming a union to solve these problems at work. It's not just about illness. It's also about airport security, which requires constant alertness, vigilance, and readiness. No one can do their best in the safety-critical job of airport security officer when they're sick. Officers at the airport took to the streets to urge action from their employer, Denver-based contractor, HSS. They were greeted with support from the public as they explained how they are denied affordable healthcare and sick days. Despite fear of reprisals from HSS, the officers stood strong.

Security Officer Wendy Mejia, an HSS employee at Denver International, said: "We are willing to take a stand no matter the cost. Our families need it."

* Figures are based on results of survey conducted November 30th - December 11th 2012. There were 122 survey respondents representing about 30% of total workforce.