UNISON sets out to recruit more safety reps amid COVID crisis

UNISON is launching a new campaign, Be on the safe side, to recruit more safety reps in workplaces across the UK – as the need for them becomes greater than ever.

The union has campaigned tirelessly on health and safety issues to protect its members at work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

It has also supported its safety reps in carrying out their difficult role, whether ensuring that members have access to correct PPE, conducting workplace risk assessments or addressing the particular risks to Black and vulnerable workers.

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the fact that it vital for every workplace to have a safety rep, said UNISON’s acting national secretary Donna Rowe-Merriman. A workplace without a safety rep potentially puts the safety of our members at risk.

It is UNISON safety reps who keep our members safe, by holding employers to account and ensuring the voice of members is heard.

And with the significant increase in membership of recent months, it is more important than ever for UNISON to recruit more safety reps, she added.

“UNISON members in schools, hospitals, offices, call centres and care homes know exactly what they and their colleagues need to be able to work safely while carrying out their duties.

Their work skills are invaluable as a safety rep – whether as a cleaner working with chemicals, a catering assistant working with children or someone working in large office complexes or call centres, no-one understands the job better.

Safety reps have certain legal rights which can help them make a difference for their members. And they are entitled to time off to perform their role.

#BeOnTheSafeSide

Join us for a national webinar on becoming a UNISON health and safety rep, at 3pm on Tuesday 7 July. You can register here