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Transport workers still lack access to toilets, says union

[ December 18, 2020   //   ]

Many transport people still lack access to decent sanitation, says the International Transport Workers’ Federation. It adds that the Covid-19 pandemic has exacerbated longstanding problems. Workers who prior to 2020 relied on the facilities at cafés and restaurants suddenly found those facilities closed during national lockdowns, and were forced to relieve themselves in bushes or at the side of the road.

ITF Executive Board member Edwin Atema, added: “We often think of a lack of safe access to sanitation as being a non-European issue, and people are surprised when they realise these conditions are a reality for transport workers in Europe. Covid-19 has exacerbated the situation and now, for example, many truck drivers get to the end of their journey and aren’t even allowed to use the facilities of where they are delivering.”

Women transport workers are particularly affected, with many workplaces still not providing separate facilities for women workers. This exposes them to violence and ill-health, in turn creating barriers to their employment in the transport industry.

The ITF’s Sanitation Charter calls for global action from governments, employers and international bodies on safe access to decent sanitary facilities for all transport workers.

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