GWU files dispute over heat safety for ERA contract workers
Union calls out discrimination between workers doing same job but employed by different entities
The General Workers' Union has called out discrimination between workers as it registered an industrial dispute over the working conditions of employees providing services to the Environment and Resources Authority who are exposed to extreme heat.
The union's Hospitality and Food Section filed the dispute against contractor Securital, citing a lack of action and communication over health and safety measures for workers exposed to the high temperatures, particularly those deployed on beaches.
The dispute comes as the Met Office issued a red heat warning for extreme heat with temperatures expected to soar to 40°C on the weekend.
The GWU said it was “disappointed” that ERA has “so far failed to take responsibility or intervene effectively because these workers are employed by the contractor”.
It added it “cannot accept” different working conditions or health and safety guidelines for workers performing the same duties simply because they are employed by different entities.
The Union pointed out that no clear Standard Operating Procedures have ever been implemented in situations involving extreme heat.
The GWU warned it will issue directives within the next 48 hours “taking whatever action it considers necessary” if no concrete progress is made.