An Amazon warehouse in the UK is facing a tuberculosis (TB) outbreak, leading workers to consider walking out following the confirmation of multiple cases of the historical disease.
The GMB union has demanded the immediate closure of Amazon’s Coventry site, alleging that the online retailer has endangered its staff by exposing them to a severe infectious disease, as several cases have been detected at the facility. The warehouse employs approximately 2,000 workers, with around 700 being GMB members.
Last September, Amazon reported that 10 individuals at the location had tested positive for non-contagious TB. Subsequent investigations did not uncover additional cases, allowing operations to continue as usual. A spokesperson mentioned the implementation of a “screening program” as a precautionary measure.
The company stated that it promptly followed guidelines from the NHS and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and informed all potentially affected employees about the situation. They emphasized the importance of responsible communication regarding public health matters.
The GMB union is urging Amazon to suspend its employees with full pay until adequate infection control measures are established to prevent the further spread of TB. Amanda Gearing, GMB Senior Organiser, emphasized the need for immediate and resolute action, warning of the risk posed to workers, visitors, and the local community by the potential outbreak.
Gearing highlighted the possibility of Coventry Amazon becoming a focal point for a large-scale TB outbreak not witnessed in decades, emphasizing the urgency for immediate and resolute measures, including the temporary closure of the Amazon Coventry site to avert such a scenario.