In the run up to Prime Day the inhumanity of working conditions at Amazon warehouses goes into overdrive
In the run up to Prime Day the inhumanity of working conditions at Amazon warehouses goes into overdrive
Injuries to Amazon workers spike in the build-up to key sales dates like Prime Day, GMB research shows.
The union’s analysis of ambulance call outs to Amazon warehouses reveals an increase before Prime Day, Black Friday and Christmas.
GMB investigations into working conditions at Amazon have revealed workers being knocked unconscious, breaking bones, and having to call ambulances due to chest pains and breathing problems - and pregnant workers being forced to stand for hours on end.
The union’s research has revealed more than 600 ambulance call-outs to Amazon warehouses in three years during a three year period – as well as more than 600 serious injuries or near misses during a 36-month period.
To coincide with Prime Day GMB has today launched a digital hub for its hundreds of Amazon members to report incidents and safety concerns.
Mick Rix, GMB National Officer, said:
“We know Amazon fulfilment centres are dangerous, stressful places to work at the best of times.
“In the run up to key sales events like Prime Day the inhumanity of working conditions at Amazon warehouses goes into overdrive.
“Workers are expected to operate like robots gone haywire, picking and packing at a furious rate to meet completely unrealistic targets.
“It’s time for the richest company in the world to invest in safety, sit down with GMB and make sure staff work in a safe environment.”
