GSP 17-21 Training – Mails and Parcels for Summer 2021

Description

We have reviewed and updated circulars previously circulated related to Training, for the purpose of ensuring essential training is conducted in a safe manner. For clarity, we have highlighted the changes in bold, reflect the easing of Level 5 restrictions. When the vaccination programme is at a more advanced stage, we will revert to you further.

The DSM will engage with the local branch in relation to requirements for the DSU, in order to ensure operational cover for the Summer leave period. This will allow current staff and new recruits to receive the required training/ familiarisation deemed necessary.

This engagement should be carried out in the context of; we have exited Level 5 of the Covid restrictions and the fact that the RSA have confirmed that following the recent decision by government on the gradual reopening of road safety services, ‘essential workers’ can take Essential Driver Training (EDT) lessons.

The DSM should be aware of the leave requirements at their own DSU and seek to reach an agreement with the local branch on the training needs taking into account the following whilst also ensuring we adhere to HSE guidelines.

• A transparent plan to be agreed and put in place that encompasses the local requirements to ensure we have adequate resources in place to cover the summer leave period.
• Up-to date route manifests / duty charts to be developed and maintained for where a staff member/trainee is required to train on the route.
• The existing training agreements’ structures will apply but should be implemented in a flexible manner to best serve the specific requirements of each individual DSU.
• There should be an increased focus on updating familiarisation of existing trained staff at the preparation stage of the process in addition to the training on route.
• The decision to partake in training is an individual decision and no pressure should be brought to bear on any individual, to either refrain or partake in training. Any issues that arise can be referred if necessary, to the CWU Regional Officer.

On the Job Training

In the area of on the Job training the need for two people operating in a van should be kept to the minimum necessary and other options, where feasible may be considered. If someone has an underlying medical condition or other domestic circumstance this should be taken into account when agreeing the training requirements.

 The Agreed Protocols for On the Job Training are as Follows:

Training at a Delivery Bench

• The Staff member/trainee and the PO must wear a face mask at all times including while sorting and preparing a route.
• Where possible the PO should observe social distancing whilst the staff member/trainee is working alone sorting and preparing the route
• Once the delivery route has been cleared from the frame, the frame and bench should be wiped down with sanitising wipes as provided for that purpose.

 On the Road Training in a Company Vehicle

• The operative and the staff member/trainee should sit as far apart as is possible.
• Shared time in the van should be kept to the minimum required.
• Windows should be kept open in as far as is possible.
• The air recircularisation ventilation system should not be utilised.
• Face mask and gloves must be worn by both the staff member/trainee and the PO at all times.
• Surfaces in the cab should be wiped down at the start and finish of the route and at regular intervals while the van is in use with the sanitising wipes as provided for that purpose.
• The on the road training in the van should be kept to absolute minimum required to ensure the trainee is trained.

Training on Foot, Cycle or E-Trike Duties

• The route should be organised in such way so as to ensure as much social distancing as is possible between the PO and the staff member/trainee.
• The route should be divided where possible into individual sections to avoid double handling.
• Face masks must be worn by both the staff member/trainee and the PO at all times.

As the vaccination programme progresses to the point where the significant majority of employees are vaccinated, the Company will review its stance regarding training. There may be circumstances where fully vaccinated staff members may be able to share a van. Any such decision will be made based on Public Health Advice.

Where an individual who has not been vaccinated raises a genuine Health and Safety concerns, the Company should be made aware of these concerns.  They will not be expected to partake in the training until a risk assessment is carried out and any actions identified implemented.

All training plans should be kept under constant review and updated as required.

Please bring this to the attention of all members

Publication Type: Circular