Unite the Union have announced a ballot of almost 320 of their members who work as drivers on Manchester Metrolink, over concerns on working conditions and fears on fatigue. If they vote in favour of strike action, strikes could commence in late November during the busy Christmas Markets period.
Driver’s shift patterns mean they have to work 450 hours over a 12-week period. This means that some drivers have to work 50 hours on, followed by two days off, then back into another 50-hour work pattern. They also have fewer rest days compared to other operational departments.
These issues are leading to safety concerns around fatigue, with drivers concerned about operating the trams whilst exhausted and unable to have proper breaks.
Unite have been told by management at KeolisAmey Metrolink that there is no funding available to support any meaningful improvements to working patterns. The union also claim that instead of finding ways to improve it, KAM are now asking drivers to start work earlier.
Sharon Graham, Unite General Secretary, said: “Our hardworking members at Metrolink do a vital job – but fatigue is putting themselves and the public at risk. Management can’t sweep this key safety issue under the carpet and they must come back to the table with workable solutions. Metrolink workers will have Unite’s full support throughout this dispute.”
Colin Hayden, Unite Regional Officer, said: “Any strike action will cause a great deal of disruption but it is entirely the fault of Metrolink, which is not taking the issue of driver fatigue seriously. It is dangerous for fatigued workers to be driving trams and they should not be put in this situation. We are demanding that Metrolink and Transport for Greater Manchester work with Unite to find a solution to this problem to avoid industrial action.”
The ballot will close on 11th November.
In response to the claims from the union, Damie Chabas, KAM Managing Director, said: “Driver welfare and managing fatigue are key priorities for us. Our focus has been on meaningful consultation and finding balanced solutions that are viable for the long term sustainability of Metrolink and that support the delivery of a safe and reliable service for passengers.”