Bus Matters - Fighting Covid-19 - Having Confidence in Control Measures - Methodology & Enforcement

Our Ref: HSR/1/3
Head Office Circular NP/283/20
16th November 2020
The Secretary
ALL BRANCHES
ALL REGIONAL COUNCILS

Dear Colleague

BUS MATTERS – FIGHTING COVID-19 – HAVING CONFIDENCE IN CONTROL MEASURES, METHODOLOGY AND ENFORCEMENT

A report into concerns for RMT bus workers in relation to Covid-19 has recently been considered by the National Executive Committee who noted and adopted the following report of their Health and Safety Sub-committee:

We note the reports received from the Relief Regional Organiser (North) for which he is thanked. We note our members’ concerns about the contradictions and lack of a methodology for enforcement of mask/ facial covering wearing and easy identification of exemptions.

The General Secretary is instructed to raise the following matters with RMT’s Parliamentary Group with a view to an Early Day Motion:

If increasing cash handling is safe then we need to see the evidence and needs to be shared clearly with front line transport workers.

How is social distancing enforced on buses and by whom?

How is the wearing of facial coverings or masks on buses enforced and by whom?

The General Secretary is further instructed to raise these concerns with the Transport Minister, contact all the operators where we have recognition, the CPT, and the Traffic and Police Commissioners, and subsequently issue a press release around our concerns.

Branches and Regional Councils to be advised.

I am acting in accordance with these instructions and will advise you of further developments.

Yours sincerely

Mick Cash
General Secretary