Hospital Worker Faces Sack Over Face Mask Row at Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital
Rubbish Collector Told: No Mask Allowed
A hospital worker employed by private firm ISS is on the brink of losing his job after a dispute over PPE. The GMB union member, who collects rubbish at Queen Elizabeth’s Hospital in Woolwich, was shockingly told he wasn’t entitled to wear a face mask.
High-Risk Brother at Home Sparks Concern
The worker lives with his brother, who is classed as high risk from Covid-19. He raised concerns about catching and passing the virus on to him. But when he complained, ISS launched disciplinary action – claiming it was over “violent behaviour” and denied any link to the PPE battle.
Union Slams ISS for ‘Failing Duty of Care’
ISS have so far refused to share notes from the investigation meeting with the GMB, despite requests. GMB organiser Helen O’Connor blasted: “It is simply staggering that a complaint about a lack of PPE in hospitals can lead to a worker being disciplined.”
She added: “Now more than ever, employers should do everything to keep hospital staff safe and prevent the spread of the virus. They must help the NHS retain staff needed during this pandemic.”
Union Vows to Protect Workers and Campaign Against Outsourcing
O’Connor promised: “GMB will vigorously protect members whose health and safety are threatened by poor practice. Any worker worried about a lack of PPE should contact us immediately.”
She concluded: “We will keep campaigning to bring all outsourced services back in-house. It’s clear private firms are failing their workers, patients and the public.”
