Retail workers

[Cocoandclive27]

I have two very close relatives (mum and aunty) who work in big local supermarkets. They are both in their 50s, both expected to be in work at the minute. I'm so worried about them. In my opinion people working in these sort of environments are one of the highest risk due to the volume of people they are coming into contact with. I feel like it's only a matter of time before one of them gets it. There have been a handful of confirmed cases in our area. We are isolating as much as possible - ironically the only time I've seen them both recently is when I've had to go shopping! But I'm really worried.

Is anyone else working in a supermarket or have close relatives working there? Are any taking precautions? Are you worried? My anxiety is sky high atm

@HarrietThePi I wish I had the confidence to just walk out! Unfortunately I need the money but it’s becoming to the point the minimal money doesn’t seem worth it .

We’ve been told we won’t close because we sell food and essentials (though this is a company that tried their hardest to open Christmas day so I don’t think it would close even if it was burning to the ground).

It’s a very scary time and whoever said they’re sick of the empty thank yous from the CEOs are absolutely spot on. Sick and tired of hearing our colleagues are eager and ready to help you etc. No we are scared and are forced to! Whilst our area and regional managers are getting to line their pockets with the safety net of being able to work from home.

I keep hoping the government would close non essential shops and force the shops that stay open to follow safety procedures, but if that doesn't happen, is there anything we can do? I don't know what but like a campaign to put pressure on companies to at least allow their employees wear gloves, provide hand sanitizer (if they can even get it), put down distancing markers and limits on maximum customer entry and make sure it gets enforced. There has to be something we can do.

USDAW seems to be the trade union for retail staff? But like the TUC website, there doesn't seem to be much campaigning about protective clothing, gloves, masks, hand sanitiser.

www.usdaw.org.uk/Help-Advice/Coronavirus-Update

I work in a large supermarket, there are NO safeguarding of colleagues at all.
No distancing measures in place, canteen still set out as big long tables with seats right next to each other, night staff having to take breaks at the same time so canteen is rammed full of people eating sitting next to each other.
I feel like crying with frustration, all they care about is sales, they honestly dont give a fuck about us!!

Found this advice for (retail trade union) USDAW members. Not sure how helpful, but here it is

Dear Member

I know that you will be concerned about how to keep yourself, your colleagues and your loved ones safe during this pandemic, especially those of you who have daily contact with members of the public in your jobs.

Your employer should have guidance and procedures in place. You should ensure that you follow the procedures in your workplace and raise any queries with your manager.

Covid-19 is a new strain of Coronavirus which can cause symptoms varying from mild to very serious. Coronaviruses are spread by:
direct contact with a person while they are infectiouscontact with droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes, either directly or on surfaces or objectsthrough particles known as aerosols, released from the lungsThe advice on hygiene precautions are the same as those for flu:
Frequent hand cleaning with soap and water or, where that is difficult, use of an alcohol-based hand sanitiser which contains at least 60% alcohol.Using a tissue to catch coughs or sneezes and disposing of the tissue immediately when usedWhere possible avoiding close contact with someone who is coughing and sneezing.Wearing of masks is not recommended for most people as they do not provide much protection and can increase the risk of colds, flu and other infections if not properly used.

The Union is working with employers to ensure that our members are protected at work, and we are calling on them to ensure that:
handwashing facilities are accessibleworkplaces are kept cleanhand sanitiser is available wherever possible to those who need itstaff are properly paid and not penalised if they need to take time off.For those working in home delivery, employers have been updating their procedures to reduce the risk of infection – these measures may include leaving goods at the doorstep and not requiring customer signatures.

We have also put outstatementurging the public to support retail and distribution workers.

If you develop symptoms or need to self-isolate, you should tell your manager immediately, and ask them for information about the company’s policy on this. Your Union rep or local Usdaw official will also be able to advise you on the procedures that the company should be following in this situation.

If you are affected by school closures, we are calling on employers to be flexible and make sure that you have the support you need. Again, please speak to your union rep or local official if you have any difficulties.

When the shops are busy and stocks are running low on certain products, this may be a flashpoint for abuse against shopworkers or delivery drivers. Your employer has a duty to keep you safe at work. Violence and abuse should never be tolerated and you should reportanyincident using your company procedures. If you feel unsafe at work for any reason, you should speak to your manager and raise it with your Union rep.

I would like to express my personal appreciation to all of our members for all that you are doing at this very difficult time. Your role in keeping the country supplied with essentials in this time of crisis is crucial. Your Union stands with and will support you however we can.

Best wishes

Paddy Lillis
General Secretary

Suddenly we are crucial .. still paid the minimum wage but crucial, all sounds like shite to me

to all who work in retail.

I will admit the only thing ive done thats been listed on this thread is walk past the line that was on the floor Our local Tesco has put a yellow line on a yellow floor so i just didnt notice it.

People putting cards in their mouths and then handing them over Who does that.

I had a man holding a lottery ticket in his mouth whilst he checked his pockets for money, he took it out his mouth, wiped it and said aw thats covered in blood, i’m just out the dentist!!!!!!