FIRST AIDERS RE-ESTABLISHMENT IN SIGNALLING LOCATIONS

Our ref: HSR/1/17

Head Office Circular: NP/161/23

8th September 2023

To: The Secretary

ALL BRANCHES

REGIONAL COUNCILS

 

Dear Colleague,

 

FIRST AIDERS RE-ESTABLISHMENT IN SIGNALLING LOCATIONS

 

Your 2023 RMT AGM agreed the following motion:

 

The Branch would like its concerns known to this Conference that the reduction in qualified First Aiders within the signalling establishments is unacceptable! 

 

The process that is being utilised by Network Rail falls short in the care and wellbeing of signalling operatives. 

 

With the ongoing situation regarding pressures on the NHS, plus ambulance waiting times, a First Aider within the workplace could be a very important addition. 

 

The Branch would like the General Secretary to raise this with Network Rail Management and highlight the importance of the re-introduction of more First Aiders within signalling locations and the associated training, also to encourage signalling staff through campaigns and adverts on notices boards and social media to consider this important position. Doing this could save lives!

 

At its meeting on 24th August, your National Executive Committee noted and adopted the following report from its Health and Safety Sub-committee:

 

The General Secretary is instructed to write to Network Rail in line with the sentiments of the resolution. In addition to urging the employer to encourage staff to become First Aiders through campaigns, etc, the Union to write to members promoting the recruitment of First Aiders.

 

Relevant members to be informed accordingly.

 

I am acting in accordance with these instructions. 

 

I would encourage members to take up any offer from your employer of becoming a First Aider

 

Please bring the contents of this circular to the attention of relevant members. 

 

Yours sincerely

 

 

Michael Lynch

General Secretary