Composite L (covering Motions 72 & 73)
Extreme Weather Warnings
“That this Congress believes the red weather warning in January showed that the health and safety of workers is being put at risk by employers ignoring advice and making their staff attend work under life threatening travel and working conditions.
“Congress notes that Storm Eowyn and the ongoing accelerated climate crisis create a great risk to the welfare of workers involved in precarious contract work including workers in the hospitality, retail and care sectors. Storm Eowyn saw an unprecedented number of employers showing disregard for workers’ welfare, with many workers either being asked to clock in during the red weather warning or being given the “option” of not going to work without pay.
“Congress notes that unions did great work supporting their members through this period, but it is a battle that should not have to be fought.
“Congress calls upon the STUC General Council to:
- work with affiliated unions and trades councils to organise a political campaign to pressure the UK Government into legislating to protect workers during life threatening red weather warnings with non-essential workers having the right not to attend the workplace and receive pay for that day and essential workers to be given protection and there be procedures in place for travel and work during such conditions;
- work alongside affiliates to deliver education programmes regarding employment rights during extreme weather to those most likely to enter precarious work, such as senior phase high school children and migrant workers;
- continue to popularise the fair work charter for severe weather events; and
- promote the work of affiliates who engage in organising around keeping workers safe during extreme weather events.”
Mover: West Lothian Trades Union Council
Seconder: STUC Annual Youth Conference
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