Usdaw is calling for:

• The return of social distancing, particularly in shops.
• Requirements to properly ventilate workplaces.
• Review sick pay, so that infected workers can afford the necessary time off.

Full letter: www.usdaw.org.uk/PMOmicronLetter
 
Paddy Lillis – Usdaw general Secretary says: “The emergence of the highly transmissible Omicron variant is a deeply concerning development for Usdaw members. Omicron’s rapid spread leaves our members, who have worked tirelessly on the frontline as key workers throughout the pandemic, at increased risk of infection. Further action is needed to protect retail workers from the risk of catching coronavirus and the subsequent requirement to self-isolate following a positive test.
 
“All possible health and safety measures should be under review at this time, with cases being forecast to spike significantly. It is clear that further safeguards are needed to protect retail workers, over and above those set out in the current guidance.
 
“Usdaw is keen to provide support and assistance in preparing updates to the Government’s coronavirus workplace guidance, and is more than happy to offer our expertise on safety measures within the retail sector.”
 
Notes for editors:
 
Usdaw (Union of Shop, Distributive and Allied Workers) is the UK's fifth biggest trade union with over 380,000 members. Most Usdaw members work in the retail sector, but the union also has many members in transport, distribution, food manufacturing, chemical industry and other trades.
 
For Usdaw press releases visit: http://www.usdaw.org.uk/news and you can follow us on Twitter @UsdawUnion