Staying Safe

Due to the increased transmissibility of the new strain of Covid-19 it has never been more important to protect ourselves, our families and our customers. Yesterday Unite met with Thirteen’s leadership team to raise our concerns regarding working during this time.

We explained that trades are being sent to non-urgent jobs and that colleagues feel unsafe carrying out certain tasks or visiting certain properties. If you are sent to a repair that you believe isn’t urgent send this back following the correct procedures.

If you feel unsafe mentally or physically when required to carryout work or a task call your manager and say

“As per Section 44 of the Employment Rights Act I reasonably believe there is a circumstance of danger which is serious and imminent and I am taking appropriate steps to protect myself or other persons from the danger. Also Section 100 makes it unlawful for me to be dismissed for this course of action”

Your health and safety must come first, make sure you follow all RA’s and SOP’s and wear the PPE provided. Before you complete your job on your PDA or start a new task, take the time you need to wash your hands, clean tools etc. You should not feel pressure to accept another job until you have done this.

If you feel you are in an unsafe situation you must challenge this. We have assurance from the Leadership team that there will be no repercussion for any member who challenges unnecessary work or situations where they feel unsafe. If you do receive an unfavourable response please contact your Unite Shop Stewards.