The reports that came in at FNV last week range from air conditioners that do not work to the prohibition of extra breaks. They come from employees from the trade, the metal sector, but also the construction and catering industry.
One of the complainants reports that it is so hot in his distribution center that an ambulance has already appeared twice in one day because someone had become unwell. The FNV does not know which company it concerns. “But something like that is really not possible,” says Kitty Jong, vice chairman of FNV.
She points out that companies are legally obliged to take measures to promote the health, safety and well-being of employees, even in the current heat. If they refuse, the staff can call the company doctor, the union or the Labor Inspectorate.
“Doing nothing is not an option for employers,” emphasizes Jong. Measures may include adjusting working hours, taking extra breaks or providing (extra) air conditioning. “It’s also good to slow down the pace of work,” she adds.