CAUGHT SHORT

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: november/december 2019 :: RMTnews 6 On world toilet day RMT revealed results of a survey of staff that exposed the shocking reality of the lack of facilities and specifically how they discriminate against women and disabled people. In the on-line survey RMT found that: • 77 per cent of women members do not have access to sanitary products in their workplace • 13 per cent of workers do not have access to a toilet at work • 45 per cent of workers are not given adequate time during working hours for toilet breaks • 40 per cent of workers say facilities are not adequate in terms of functionality and provision • 32 per cent of workers say soap isn’t always available • 30 per cent of workers say toilets are not regularly cleaned and maintained • 46 per cent of workers said there are no toilet facilities provided for disabled workers CAUGHT SHORT RMT lifts the lid on the scandal of lack of toilet facilities on the transport network COMMENTS FROM STAFF INCLUDED “No break time to use them. Sometimes a 12-hour day can pass where you're on the same train all day with no time to get off it or find time to use the on-board toilets.” “I've spent 5 and a half hours driving without access to the toilet” “I work nights and there is often no toilets open in the area” “We have only had the toilet available again for the last few weeks as the previous cistern was apparently covered in asbestos dust and we had to use public toilets for over 4 weeks on the station platform.” “Whilst it is not forced, there is almost an expectation that the nearest bankside bush will suffice“ “It’s very difficult to “request” a toilet break on London Underground. You are made to feel that it is a crime to use the toilet because you cause disruption and the favourite “you shut down the job.” “Always filthy. Doors and locks broken. Toilet roll holders broken and on floor.” RMT general secretary Mick Cash said that the figures paint a horrific picture of the transport industry which seems stuck in the 19th century in its attitude to toilets and welfare provision for workers rather than the 21st century where every worker is guaranteed immediate access to clean, maintained and well stocked toilet facilities and moreover unrestricted time away from their normal duties to use them. “There is also very clearly blatant discrimination going on here and the bottom line is money. RMT will continue to fight for decent and accessible toilet facilities along with free sanitary protection for all,” he said.