Workplace Report October 2015

Health & safety news

Carrier bag charge fears

Shopworkers’ union Usdaw has called on customers to respect staff as a 5p carrier bag charge begins in England this month.

General secretary John Hannett said that the introduction of a new law, like carrier bag charging, can be a flashpoint for verbal abuse, threats or even violence.

“Please respect shopworkers, they are just doing their job and have to comply with the law,” said Hannett. “Our surveys show that life on the frontline of retail can be pretty tough, with more than half suffering verbal abuse in the last twelve months. Retail staff have an important role in our communities and that role should be valued and respected.”

www.usdaw.org.uk/About-Us/News/2015/October/Respect-shopworkers-says-Usdaw,-as-the-new-carrier