Unions launch tests for safe working

The PCS public and commercial services and UCU lecturers’ unions each last month set out a series of tests for safe working in relation to the coronavirus outbreak. The PCS says its five tests are designed to help its reps negotiate, organise and campaign for safe working as the government relaxes the coronavirus lockdown.

These set out that there must be no wider return until communities are safe, with a significant reduction of cases and the ability for widespread testing and tracing. Workplaces must only be for essential work, which cannot be carried out remotely.

Open workplaces must have a union-agreed risk assessment to include all factors known to affect virus transmission, as well as an equality impact assessment.

Staff must be individually assessed and must not be required to work at an open workplace if they are vulnerable, shielding, or cannot travel to work safely.

Finally, outbreaks must be controlled, with workplaces closed and cleaned in the event of an outbreak.

The UCU lecturers’ union also set out five key tests in relation to onsite working at colleges and universities. These are: a sustained reduction in the numbers of COVID-19 cases and infection rates; coherent national plans for social distancing; and comprehensive testing and contact tracing and isolation. They also include university and college-wide strategies for health and safety; and protection for those most vulnerable to COVID-19.

https://www.pcs.org.uk/your-union/coronavirus-guidance/the-pcs-5-tests-for-safe-working

https://www.ucu.org.uk/article/10781/Unions-set-out-five-tests-government-and-colleges-must-meet-before-staff-and-students-can-return