Postal
Senators also grill Post over van safety
(29 May, 2009): The CEPU has made an application to the Australian Industrial Relations Commission calling for it to bring forward hearings tied to Australia Post's appeal of Comcare's report into risks surrounding the new Mercedes Sprinter Vans.
The matter is set for hearing for three days commencing 10 August - almost a year after the union's safety concerns were first raised within the Commission.
Meanwhile Post has increased its fleet to 328 vans, with another 94 on order.
Post claim that it will cost an extraordinary $24 million to retrofit the fleet. We believe that this is grossly exaggerated.
It appears that the option for a window costs $300 when ordered with the van.
This week the union sought an expedited hearing, given the pressure being put on members to drive the vehicles and the Comcare evidence that a real risk exists.
Remember - Comcare has identified a real risk using these vans and you are entitled, under the law, to decline performing a task or using equipment that presents an imminent risk to your health and safety.
The safety of the Mercedes vans was also raised by Senators during Estimates hearings in Canberra this week.
Drivers concerned about the vans' safety should take into account the following exchange between Post's Catherine Walsh and Senator Dana Wortley (SA):
Ms Walsh—We are of the view that these vans are safe for use for the purpose that they have been purchased.
Senator WORTLEY—If that is the case, why do you think the drivers would raise the issue?
Ms Walsh—Well, I think there is an issue here of change, that it is a different type of van from the one that had been used previously, and drivers were used to having windows in the back. We say that the current vans with the side rear vision mirrors that are provided do provide for them to be used safely in all circumstances without having the rear windows installed, but it is a matter of them undertaking appropriate training, which it is our obligation to provide, and we say that we will before anyone is required to work on those vans. We will be continuing to work through with that, but we consider them safe.
Senator WORTLEY—Is it the case that if the changes to the vans were made they would not be able to carry out the function for which you sought the vans in the first place?
Ms Walsh—I would have to take that on notice. I am not fully conversant with the usability issues, Senator, but I am happy to take that on notice.
You can download an extract of the hearings relating to the Mercedes vans, right here.
Got a view? Let us know what you think via feedback@cepu.asn.au