Health and safety

We are constantly looking for new ways to communicate our message to other workers, members and the public.

A branch of the Transport Workers Union of America (TWU) who represent transport workers in New York City have created a unique rap video urging passengers to stand back.

Check it out: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=FkBhYMzyucQ

We note that London Underground Ltd dismissed Train Operator James Masango in 2011, before a strong response from this union achieved his reinstatement. We note that RMT complained to the Office of Rail Regulation: firstly, about James’ alleged responsibility for the SPAD; and secondly, that James had been compelled to drive when unfit to do so.

We note the report from HM Principal Inspector of Railways Keith Atkinson in response to our complaint, which found that:

• “the case of James Masango’s alleged SPAD does not appear to have been handled in the systematic manner I would have expected from LU”
• “there is undoubtedly room for more structured arrangement between managers and their staff for ensuring clear understanding of an individual’s fitness or otherwise to operate trains”

This EC decision regards 'electronic cigarettes'

We note the reply from London Underground Ltd extending the deadline for our comments to Monday 3 June. We also note the feedback received from branches and representatives.

Admin CDI Note Taking
On Tuesday May 14th the Reps attended a MATS Functional Council meeting. The RMT was the union that put this on the agenda. At the meeting we were able to highlight the pressing issues around CDI note taking. The Reps pointed out how Admin were being told they had to take part in the pilot scheme and we insisted that this was voluntary and was not part of your role or job description.

Strike action ballots return strong yes votes from ISS cleaners, drivers on the Piccadilly and sub surface depots, and maintenance workers on TfL contract with Mitie

RMT today confirmed a ballot for strike action of Train Operators and Instructor Operators on the Piccadilly Line, in response to London Underground riding roughshod over agreements and abusing a range of agreed policies and procedures, has shown a massive nine to one vote in favour.

Attached is the May edition of 'RMT Stratford North Greenwich News'

We note the interim statement from the Law Commission on its consideration of taxi and private hire
legislation.

We welcome the indication that the Commission will recommend retaining the distinction between taxis and
private hire vehicles (PHVs). We are concerned, however, that the replacement of the concept of ‘plying for hire’ with the concept of ‘pre-booking’ may dilute this distinction and allow private hire vehicles to encroach on taxi drivers’ work. (paragraph 5)

Last month RMT Health & Safety representative Julie Miller surveyed station staff, asking about the effects of working in cold weather and the mitigation offered.

Nearly 700 people responded - around half station assistants (CSA's), a third station supervisor's and the remainder Revenue Control Inspectors and ticket office workers (SAMFs).

We note the report from our Regional Organiser and the correspondence from our Hammersmith and City branch and our LUL Trains Council representatives.

We note that there are several serious problems concerning the introduction of the S Stock, itemised in previous GGC decisions and including inadequate preparation time and cross-line working. We reaffirm our stance that the introduction of new stock must not be a pretext for attacks on safety standards or working conditions.