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The following is a statement from the Barbados Trade Union regarding today’s G4S staff walkout at Grantley Adams International Airport.
The Barbados Workers Union (BWU) is deeply concerned about the ongoing cooling issues at the Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) which are seriously affecting the health and well-being of G4S security personnel stationed at the facility. This afternoon, 15 G4S workers were forced to stop work to protect their health as temperatures soared to unbearable levels. This situation is neither sudden nor surprising as the BWU has repeatedly highlighted the unbearable working conditions caused by the failure of the air conditioning system.
The accident occurred during a shift change and involved two shifts of workers. Despite their dedication and tenacity, these workers have been fighting this problem for more than a year and could no longer tolerate this dangerous working environment. Their decision to temporarily stop working was not a reckless act, but a necessary response to the extreme heat that was endangering their health.
Notably, while technicians were called in to deal with the air conditioning failure, GAIA security stepped in to ensure operations were not interrupted. During this time, GAIA management enhanced the cooling system by adding fans and providing water to the security team—actions that stood in stark contrast to the conditions endured by G4S workers.
In a positive development, we are pleased to confirm that G4S has now agreed to provide drinking water to its employees. However, it is deeply troubling that this basic provision, which is vital to the well-being of workers, has not been implemented earlier.
Once the area had cooled sufficiently, G4S workers resumed work. However, it is important to highlight that once the workers returned, the additional fans provided by GAIA were removed. This action raises serious concerns about the long-standing commitment to solving the cooling issues plaguing this work area.
The BWU is urging GAIA management to take immediate and decisive action to permanently repair the area’s air conditioning system. The current reduction in traffic has provided a temporary reprieve from the hot weather. However, with the arrival of the traditionally warmer months and the potential for increased activity at the airport, there is real reason to fear that this problem could re-emerge, once again endangering the health of G4S workers.
It is unacceptable that G4S security personnel are unable to bring water into the area due to safety protocols, so it is even more important that GAIA ensures adequate cooling and hydration measures are in place. These workers have demonstrated an unwavering commitment despite the challenging conditions they face every day. They deserve a safe and comfortable working environment. While we speak out for the G4S workers today, we must also note that these complaints about the heat have also come from members of Caribbean Duty Free and Customs. The Barbados Trade Union stands firmly with the G4S workers and will continue to advocate for their rights and well-being. We call on Grantley Adams International Airport to prioritize the health and safety of all workers and address this issue immediately.
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