Climate Change is Union Business

Up to 5 days leave for workers impacted by disasters like floods, bushfires and cyclones. Including leave for emergency service workers. More than 10% of UWU worksites have won disaster leave in agreements, and we are working to increase this. Unions are fighting for 10 days of paid Disaster & Emergency Services leave in the NES for every worker.

Paid rest breaks, changes to how and when work is performed during the heat, effective cooling and ventilation, consulting with employees about heat hazards and risks, monitoring thermal and welt bulb temperatures (humidity), and holding employer accountable (they’re responsible by law) to provide a safe workplace free of hazards, including heat.

Supplied by the employer to protect workers from hazards, this includes hazards from high and low temperatures. For example – UV protection – sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, and shade. Uniforms with breathable materials and are appropriate for summer/heat. PPE is only effective when combined with stronger heat protection and measures, like changing the way work is performed.

Workers in industries affected by climate change, or the transition to zero emissions, are often being left without support as workplaces close and risks to health and safety in the workplace increase. United Workers Union members are organising to ensure the transition to a zero-emissions economy is fair and just, including sustainable jobs with union agreements, job security, fair wages and effective management of health and safety.

UWU HSR’s are members elected by you to act on behalf of co-workers (not your employer!) to ensure safe working conditions, this includes heat and climate related hazards. HSR’s have powers protected by law to inspect, monitor and raise workplace health and safety compliance and hold the employer accountable.