Havering bin workers to strike over conditions

More than 40 refuse workers in Havering are scheduled to strike for five days, from October 26 to October 30. The action involves loaders and drivers employed by FCC Waste Management, which delivers outsourced waste services for Havering Council. The Unite union has organised the strike due to ongoing concerns about working conditions that they claim have not been addressed by management.

Concerns over workload and heat

The union states that workers have raised issues for years, including excessive workloads and fatigue. Unite claims that some loaders suffered heatstroke during recent summer heatwaves because their hours were not reduced, unlike in other London boroughs. Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said that bin workers perform an essential job and deserve to be treated with respect. She added that FCC Waste Management must address these serious concerns.

Pay disparity claims

In addition to working conditions, the union has highlighted pay differences. According to Unite, a new starter loader in Havering is paid £12.88 per hour, significantly less than the £15.72 paid for the same role in the neighbouring borough of Redbridge. Similarly, new drivers in Havering reportedly earn £17.24 per hour, compared to £19.89 in Redbridge. Unite regional officer Nick West stated that residents should not face disruption, but this is a consequence of FCC failing to resolve the issues. He added that residents pay for the service through council tax and deserve a functioning service, while workers deserve fair pay and conditions.

The Standard has contacted Havering Council and FCC Waste Management for comment.