Cronin House
245 Church Street
London
N9 9HW
Telephone: 020 8803 0255
Membership enquiries: membership@poauk.org.uk
General enquiries:
general@poauk.org.uk
We were shocked to hear about the significant health and safety issues faced by workers in environments that should be considered safe. Equally, many of the reps we spoke to were appalled to learn about the conditions that prison staff endure daily. It was a stark reminder that unsafe working environments persist across many sectors, including our own.
VIOLENCE AT WORK – A WORRYING NATIONAL TREND
We attended the Violence at Work workshop, where we gained new insights into the growing issue of violence across various industries. Disturbingly, all sectors are experiencing increasing reports of violence in the workplace. This is not only a concern for prison officers but a trend across the UK that calls for urgent attention.
Through these discussions, we were able to establish important links with other unions, all of whom are committed to knowledge-sharing on the issue of workplace violence.
It was reassuring to know that other trade unions stand in solidarity with the POA and are equally committed to addressing this unacceptable rise in violence. There is a clear and collective understanding that employers must do more to keep workers safe.
Phil and I would like to take this opportunity to remind members to report accidents, and any violence experienced in the workplace, through the appropriate channels.
This includes reporting incidents to the police where necessary. Documenting these occurrences is critical for both individual safety and collective action in addressing these unacceptable conditions.
THE ONGOING ASBESTOS THREAT
Another key session we attended was the Asbestos workshop., where we gained a clearer understanding of the national situation, and the continued threat asbestos poses to workers across the UK. Shockingly, it remains present in many workplaces, including HMPPS buildings. Despite the obvious dangers, asbestos has yet to be completely removed from many institutions that are critical to public safety and proper functioning, such as prisons.
It was reassuring to hear from experts that changes in legislation are on the horizon, which could lead to the forced removal of asbestos in certain circumstances. We hope this will include most workplaces, particularly high-risk environments such as HMPPS.
LOOKING FORWARD
While our experience at the Hazards Conference was mostly positive, it was also concerning to hear about the rising levels of violence and ongoing risks, such as asbestos exposure. Members can rest assured that other trade union representatives stand with us in complete solidarity. They, like us, believe that the levels of violence we face are completely unacceptable, and it is clear that employers must do more to protect us.
Looking ahead, Phil and I both agreed that future participation in the Hazards Conference would greatly benefit the POA. We also see the potential for negotiating increased access to workshops, allowing us to maximise our time in such an information-rich environment. This would ensure we continue to bring back vital knowledge to support our members and push for safer working conditions.
The conference was a reminder of the power of collective action and the need to persistently advocate for better, safer working environments for all.
PAUL TELFORD
POA H&S REP, HMP FRANKLAND
Cronin House
245 Church Street
London
N9 9HW
Telephone: 020 8803 0255
Membership enquiries: membership@poauk.org.uk
General enquiries:
general@poauk.org.uk
Representing over 30,000 Prison, Correctional and Secure Psychiatric Workers, the POA is the largest UK Union in this sector, able to trace its roots back more than 100 years.