A group of British Airways Cabin Crew have refused to carry out their duties as they claim the airline is failing to issue enough Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to keep them protected from Coronavirus (COVID-19).
According to the multiple sources, 25 members of Mixed Fleet Cabin Crew are refusing to work but only one cabin crew member has filed an official grievance, which has been confirmed by the airline.
The news comes as it has emerged that many staff that are willing to work on for the airline have been furloughed while others, some classed as higher risk, have been told they must carry on working.
One source told The Scotsman that the airline had opened a volunteer list so low-risk crews who didn’t have family commitments could volunteer to work but many on that list were furloughed.
According to the sources, Cabin Crew are allegedly being issued with one 70ml bottle of hand sanitising gel for the entire crew on a flight.
The Rail and Maritime (RMT) Union has advised its members, which includes bus and train drivers, to stop working on safety grounds if employers do not provide adequate protection from Coronavirus such as gloves, masks and eye protection.
Unite, which represents the Cabin Crew, negotiated the furlough deal on behalf of its members but hasn’t issued any formal advice to its members.
British Airways has said it will not be commenting on the issue.
