Unions demand priority access to lateral flow tests for shop workers

Trade unions have warned that the supply problems with lateral flow test (LFT) kits are putting working people at risk, and vital services in danger of being shut down.

Trades Union Congress (TUC) has called for workers who cannot work from home to have priority access to LFT kits until supply problems are resolved.

While the government has claimed that there is not a shortage of tests, the TUC noted that the home testing kits have run out on government’s website.

“With Omicron cases rising rapidly, it is even more important that people test regularly if they cannot work at home and are in contact with others,” TUC General Secretary Frances O’Grady said.

“But supply problems with lateral flow tests are putting workers at risk. And it increases the danger of Omicron outbreaks in workplaces shutting down vital services. The government must give priority access to test kits for anyone who is required to work outside the home, to help protect workers and the community.”

Retail trade union Usdaw has backed the call by the TUC.

“We welcome and endorse this call by the TUC. Our members working in retail are key workers delivering essential services. They cannot work at home, they have worked throughout the pandemic and they deserve priority for test kits to help them and the public stay safe and well by reducing the risk of virus transmission in shops,” Paddy Lillis, Usdaw General Secretary said.

Lillis added that they are “concerned” that the government has not yet reintroduced social distancing measures despite the rapid spread of the Omicron variant.

“This should be a key method of reducing the rate of infection and we are talking to employers about promoting social distancing, hand hygiene and the wearing of face coverings in stores,” he said.

“We also remind the public to follow the rules and respect shop workers. Abuse is not a part of our members’ jobs and it is totally unacceptable that a significant minority of customers feel they can take their frustrations out on retail staff. We will only get through this appalling pandemic by working together.”