Workplace Report (July 2019)

Health & safety news

Guidance on air pollution 


The Trade Union Clean Air Network (TUCAN) marked Clean Air Day on 20 June by publishing new guidance on air pollution for union reps. The national day aims to raise awareness about how to take action to make the air we breathe cleaner and safer.


The TUCAN guide, Guidance on air pollution for union reps, says that most workers are exposed to polluted air at work and on their journey to work. Having decent work means being able to breathe clean air at work, but the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that occupational exposure to air pollution causes more than 860,000 deaths worldwide each year, with outdoor workers particularly vulnerable to ambient (outdoor) air pollution. 


As well as calling for stronger laws to help unions tackle air pollution, the guide sets out how workers can take action at their workplace. It provides an air pollution checklist to help generate discussions with employers and union members and win improvements in air quality. 


www.greenerjobsalliance.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/TUCAN-Guidance-for-TU-Reps.pdf


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