03/19/2024

Wales News Online

Local & National News for Wales

Binmen claim they are without adequate protection for COVID-19

CARMARTHENSHIRE’S binmen are not being provided with hand sanitiser and protective measures for social distancing in their vehicles and they have not received a pay increase despite being in the front line and exposing themselves to risks. Those are the claims of binmen, who say they have taken their grievances to the unions who represent them.

Responding to the claim Paul Thomas, Assistant Chief Executive said:

The Authority has worked closely with Trade Union colleagues over the last couple of weeks to develop a protocol for social distancing, that has also been shared with the Health and Safety Executive. This protocol, together with a revised Safe System of Work guidance document, reflects the current industry guidance and recently published Welsh Government guidance. I can confirm that this jointly agreed protocol is now operational.

In relation to hand sanitizer and relevant PPE, I can further confirm that a personal hand sanitizer has been issued to every one of our loaders and drivers, in addition to anti-bac wipes, and anti-viral spray.

On the matter of protective panels, we are only aware of a few of other local authorities that have introduced this approach. It should be noted however, that the Freight Transport Association does not promote this approach because of the additional potential health and safety hazards it introduces in the cab.

That said, we have agreed with our Trade Unions and our refuse teams to pilot the use of chauffeured vehicles in the Llanelli area, to enable a greater physical distancing of crews. This has been operational for a number of weeks and we are keeping measures under review.

Finally, Pembrokeshire County Council has confirmed that it does not pay any enhancement to its refuse operatives.

%d bloggers like this: