GMB London calls for Yodel couriers to be risk assessed for PPE

 GMB London, the union for staff in the parcel delivery sector, is calling on Yodel managers as a matter of priority to meet GMB to discuss concerns of members working as couriers on how to safely do their jobs and to revise rates paid to them during the current public health emergency.

Of particular concern are the necessity to operate in accordance with strict social distancing requirements and how this impacts on the normal delivery times and rates plus the need for sanitiser, hand washing facilities, gloves, masks etc.

Steve Garelick, GMB London Regional officer, said “GMB and  the members recognise that these couriers  are providing an important service to the public at this time of public health emergency.

“Like for other sectors there is an urgent need for risk assessment on how to safely operate necessary social distancing and how rates need to be revised in the light of the impact on delivery times and remuneration plus the issuing of sanitisers, gloves, masks etc.

“Unlike other parcels delivery firms Yodel seem to have taken a position that couriers have no real voice and no mechanism for engagement as a group.

“Rates have not been revised as per other firms in the sector and no Personal Protective equipment has been issued.

“Yodel owe it to the safety of the public they are serving as well as that of their own staff to deal with this as a matter of urgency.

GMB has repeatedly asked for discussions but the door seems closed. This has to change.”