Edinburgh tram workers back strike over 'lack of toilet breaks'

Edinburgh tram workers have backed strike action over health concerns including a “lack of toilet breaks”, union chiefs have confirmed.

Unite, which represents 160 tram workers, said over 91% of balloted workers supported strike action.

The union said workers were being “forced” into strike action due to mismanagement which has seen workers go hours without hydration or toilet breaks due to late running services and having to make up time.

Representatives said that the situation has contributed to health issues developing among its membership including stress and infections.

The union, which represents drivers, ticket service assistants, controllers and vehicle maintenance workers, warned the action could take place in a matter of weeks unless the concerns are “swiftly” addressed.

It said there is a “shortfall of between five to six minutes” in the running time from Edinburgh Airport to Newhaven, which takes on average around two hours to complete.

The maximum driving time before a scheduled break is five hours. According to the union, many workers go without hydration or toilet breaks during this time due to running late and having to make up the time.

Unite added that some trams regularly run up to 30 minutes late with control having to turn trams around mid-route, which they say removes the ability for tram workers to go to the toilet.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said: “Unite’s Edinburgh tram workers have emphatically backed strike action in order to tackle head-on the unacceptable health and safety situation they face.

“They should not be in this situation because Edinburgh Trams should be implementing measures to ensure our members get their comfort breaks. We will back our tram membership all the way in the fight for decent workplace conditions.”

Lyn Turner, Unite industrial officer, added: “Edinburgh’s tram workers are being forced into taking strike action.

“This is mismanagement plain and simple, and it is having unacceptable consequences for our members.”

“Unite wants to resolve this through negotiation but we are running out of track before strike action takes place.

“If this happens, then Edinburgh Trams will be solely to blame for any disruption. Management has one more chance.”

A spokesman for Edinburgh Trams commented: “While we are disappointed the union has embarked on a course of action that threatens disruption for customers, we are committed to the wellbeing of colleagues and are doing everything we can to address their concerns.

“As part of this process, we are working closely with the Trams to Newhaven project team, City of Edinburgh Council and colleagues to find a workable solution, including improving the effectiveness of road traffic signals that can have an impact on our timetable and turnaround times at the airport and Newhaven.”