Retail management must step up to protect workers and community

Following the NSW Government’s introduction of new indoor health mandates, members have contacted the Union over renewed concerns about inadequate signage and social distancing markings in their outlets.

From the feedback we’ve received from members, it seems that post offices have largely been left to their own to come up with signage and markers indicating restrictions that apply to customers entering the outlet.

This has caused confusion for customers and concern for members who are constantly having to point out restrictions that apply in their outlet, due to inadequate signage.

Sure, we recognise it may take some time for appropriate signage to be developed and distributed across the network to inform customers about the new indoor mask mandate, this is understandable.

However, capacity restrictions and social distancing requirements are nothing new within the retail space and many other large and small retailers have shown their ability to keep up with those requirements and inform, and protect, their customers appropriately – Australia Post should be no different.

The safety of our members at work, and their customers entering the outlet, shouldn’t be left up to how creative our members can be with a marker and a sheet of A4 paper – or their ability to come up with intricate ways to use Express Post sticky tape on the floor.

We’ve included just some of the inappropriate examples of what is being shared with us – some of which are actually causing safety hazards. For a government business enterprise as large as Australia Post, we think members and our communities expect and deserve much better in the midst of a global pandemic.

Send us examples of what COVID safe signage and floor markings are being used in your outlet by snapping a photo and emailing it through to feedback@cepu.org

It is completely inadequate and your Union has today made representations to management at the highest levels to have these matters rectified.

We will keep members informed of any developments.

In the meantime, if you believe you are being placed in a situation that risks your health and your safety, you should contact us for immediate advice related to removing yourself from those environments.

Should you require any further information or assistance, please contact Branch Assistant Secretary Peter Chaloner or Branch Officials Cade Anderson, Elly Huttly, Phil Kessey, TK Ly, Liam Murphy, Peter O’Connell, Dharmpal Singh or Dennis Williams on (02) 9893 7822.

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