Received from: College of Podiatry, TSSA
Comprising Motions 22 and amendments
Congress notes with serious concern the growing reports that workers, including transport workers, particularly those working on stations and platforms, are being exposed to dangerously high levels of airborne dust, harmful fumes, and poor air quality. Numerous studies, including those on the underground and rail networks, have revealed particulate matter and toxic fumes from train braking systems, diesel engines, and maintenance activities at concentrations significantly above recommended health limits.
This prolonged exposure places transport workers at increased risk of respiratory illnesses, cardiovascular problems, and other long-term health complications. Workers are often confined to poorly ventilated environments with limited protection or monitoring in place.
Congress believes every worker has the right to a safe and healthy working environment. The current lack of enforceable air quality standards, effective ventilation, and real-time monitoring in workplaces, including on stations and platforms is unacceptable.
Congress calls on the TUC to:
i. lobby government and transport authorities to introduce legally binding, higher quality air quality standards for dust and fumes in workplaces, in line with recommendations from the WHO and the Institute of Occupational Medicine
ii. demand urgent investment in ventilation, air purification, and monitoring systems
iii. ensure trade unions are fully consulted in safety planning and environmental health reviews.
We must act now to protect the health and safety of all workers, including transport workers.
Proposer: Transport Salaried Staffs’ Association
Seconder: Royal College of Podiatrists