UK: The RMT trade union has called on Network Rail to ensure that all maintenance patrol workers to have guaranteed access to adequate toilet and washing facilities, with documentation of suitable welfare arrangements in all Safe System of Work Packs.
The union also wants to see the reinstatement of local welfare support roles, an independent review of compliance with health and safety requirements, and immediate improvements to vehicle hygiene and food preparation standards.
A union survey of more than 120 members across multiple Network Rail regions found 72% rarely or never had access to adequate toilet facilities while on patrol; 71% said they were never provided with clean, private washing or changing facilities when taking breaks. Nearly 70% rated welfare vehicle hygiene as poor or very poor, and almost 70% frequently relied on public facilities such as petrol stations or fast-food outlets.
’These findings show that basic welfare facilities are not being provided consistently or adequately’, said RMT General Secretary Eddie Dempsey on February 20. ’That raises serious questions about compliance with health and safety law which is something we are urgently taking up with the employer.’
Network Rail told Rail Business UK ‘while facilities are provided at all our offices, depots and site compounds, some railway work is carried out in remote locations. In these cases, specific local welfare arrangements need to be put in place, and we recognise that in some instances more work needs to be done. Working with the rail industry, we will continue to strive to support the workforce by providing safe, clean and dignified welfare facilities that enable all staff to carry out their work effectively and without hindrance.’
