Queries about cold workplaces often come from members who are working in shops – especially those working at checkouts or at kiosks who are not as mobile as colleagues in other parts of the store.
Usdaw has previously negotiated the provision of temporary heating, the relaxation of dress codes, extra breaks for people to warm up and the rotation of work to prevent staff spending too long in cold areas.
Your Usdaw Health and Safety Rep has legal powers to investigate and take up issues with management. Some retailers have been prosecuted for breaching temperature regulations.
In Scotland, the Scottish Government and STUC have agreed a Fair Work Charter for Severe Weather. Following the disruption caused by bad weather in early 2018, it is designed to support employers to manage the impacts of severe weather on workers and their business, by adopting fair working practices.
Our ability to improve our members’ lives increases with every person who joins us, so for help staying out of the cold this winter, join Usdaw today.