Security guards at New Zealand's managed isolation and quarantine facilities have been caught asleep while on the job seven times, Housing Minister Megan Woods says.
She said on Wednesday there have been investigations into the incidents since it is a serious issue.
Air Commodore Darryn Webb called the events "unacceptable";
"This is serious business and we want to make sure people are fully aware of the expectations."
But he also believes there could be "human-factor issues" at play due to the layered security system at the facilities. There are security staff working with police and New Zealand Defence Force personnel, so it means the facilities are still safe even if one person lapses, he says.
"I want to reinforce to people that just because one person may fall asleep, [that] does not signal that these places are unsafe or insecure.
"There are multiple layers associated with technology and additional staff."
The pair didn't detail when these incidents occurred, however First Security, which is working at some facilities, told Newshub last week it was "aware of some claims of inattentive staff".
Webb says 28 additional security managers are at managed isolation and quarantine facilities across the country in response to these incidents.
The new crew will help implement safety improvements, deliver training and induct new security staff.
Additional CCTV cameras, motion detectors and door alarms will also be used when needed.
There was also another attempted breach at a facility when a person tried to walk out the front door, but they were stopped by a security guard and police and the New Zealand Defence Force were called, Webb says.
"This person was handcuffed, taken back to their room and given a strong verbal warning."
They were also told "in no uncertain terms" were they allowed to leave.
