COVID19 - 900% jump in complaints and queries in NI mainly over workers’ safety

The Health and Safety Executive NI has warned employers that they must give evidence of measures taken to ensure staff are protected once complaints have been raised with them but has not detailed any plans to inspect workplaces in person.

The HSENI commented after an unprecedented 900% increase in complaints and requests for information and advice, the majority of which have been about ‘COVID-19’ and ‘social distancing’ in the workplace.

While many businesses have acted swiftly to put measures in place to protect their staff and customers, the Journal has received numerous reports from local workers in different sectors across the north west who are frightened that guidelines are not being adhered to and who believe they are being put at risk as a result.

The HSE said that because of the large volume of calls, their approach was “to advise and work with companies to ensure compliance”.  “Our inspectorate staff are contacting businesses in response to raised concerns to ensure that measures are put in place to maintain social distancing and minimise the risks associated with COVID-19. Inspectors are requiring employers to provide evidence of the measures being taken.

“We are seeing great efforts from companies to introduce the necessary measures and the vast majority are complying with our requests. Despite this we are aware that not all businesses are in compliance. Where this is the case we ask that employees bring these to our attention by emailing us at [email protected]”

SDLP Foyle MLA Mark H Durkan yesterday called for the immediate inspections of essential businesses to ensure safety guidance is followed.

Mr Durkan said the enforced closures of non-essential workplaces must also be in place as soon as possible.

He said: “I have been in contact with several companies over the past fortnight, relaying the concerns and fears of employees that their working conditions are risking their health and their loved ones lives. Employers must take all measures possible to do guarantee the protection of their staff. If you cannot ensure social distancing, reduce the number of workers there then send people home, giving priority to those with health issues or vulnerable family members.

“Furthermore, we need the immediate inspections of workplaces to ensure adherence to rules, but I would go further. Businesses should have to be able to demonstrate that what they are dragging people to do day after day, at this crucial time, is indeed essential- if it isn’t, then it is pure and simple greed. There is no second chance at getting this right. People are anxious and rightfully so; they want their livelihood guaranteed but not at the expense of their own and their families health and wellbeing. We cannot allow companies to put their wealth before our health.”

HSENI’s website has COVID19 information and an example risk assessment at www.hseni.gov.uk/