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Winter Precautions Policy Agreement Between CWU And Royal Mail Agreement was reached this week between the CWU and Royal Mail on a “Joint Brief on Severe Weather” advises Dave Joyce, CWU's National Health And Safety Officer in his latest letter to all CWU Branches LTB1047/10. In the letter to all the union's branches Dave explained: “Intensive discussions have been taking place with Royal Mail HQ over the last fortnight in order to ensure that our members in Royal Mail are well prepared for this years Severe Weather. The aim is to make sure that extra care is taken in managing and controlling the risks that are faced and ensuring that the risks are assessed before members go out and that everyone remains vigilant and aware whilst out on delivery, collection or driving.” Dave outlined the basis of the agreement: “The foundation of the agreed policy is that Managers must support staff in making the right decisions, making sure that everyone is prepared and knows how to minimise the risk of having accidents through good communication, risk controls and adjustments, strictly adhering to safety standards, working methods, equipment and PPE use.” In LTB1047/10, CWU members are asked to remain aware of safety hazards and if they feel their delivery walk has become too dangerous or inaccessible due to poor weather, Managers will support their decision not to carry on and will encourage them to return to the office. The LTB goes on: The agreed “ Joint Brief on Severe Weather” ensures that in line with Royal Mails Safety Policy, CWU Safety Representatives will be engaged and consulted on severe weather risk management decisions.
‘Spikys’ and ‘snow – chains’ anti- slip footwear devices will be issued to all Royal Mail Delivery and Collection staff. SPIKYs and snow chains are rubber straps that fit over shoes or boots to prevent slipping. These anti – slip footwear devices provides reassurance at all times during snow and icy conditions, SPIKYs and snow chains can be worn over any shoe or boots The actual spikes are made from hardwearing steel, in order to give a safer footing and reassurance. These have been trialled and used with good feedback in RML Scotland over the last 18 months with the snow chains being used for many years. SPIKYs are designed for those experiencing slippy surfaces caused by ice or snow such as postal workers, construction workers, farmers, winter walkers, and have been used by Ice Rink workers. The LTB concludes by referring to Royal Mail Logistics staff: The full LTB plus attachment can be obtained from the CWU national website or from any CWU Branch Secretary. Source: CWU
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The policy outlines fresh advice on driving in adverse weather as well as advice on the use of cycles, high capacity trolleys and lightweight trolleys. Before going out on delivery it will be assessed as to whether it is safe to use bicycles, HCT’s and LWT’s and where it is not, alternative arrangements must be made.