However in response, Amey emphasised that it will provide contractual sick pay from day one for any Covid-19 related illness.
The question about sickness benefits has arisen following concerns raised by the trade union for members working in the west London borough of Ealing.
Keith Williams, senior organiser at GMB, said: “It is not only about refuse workers exposing themselves to risk, it is about stopping the spread and if people only receive SSP (statutory sick pay) they are unable to afford to self-isolate. There are no other key workers facing an income of £94 per week, if by maintaining critical services they are being exposed.”
Mr Williams added: “There needs to be decency and morality on the part of all employers in the current crisis and Amey are no exception. This is why many other contractors within the Public Sector have all committed to paying full pay for employees who self isolate or are suffering COVID-19.”
In response, an Amey spokesperson said: “This does not reflect Amey’s official position on Covid-19. We are resolutely committed to the safety of our employees and the communities we serve, and we can confirm we provide contractual sick pay from day one for any Covid-19 related illness.
“We are working closely with our clients and mobilising all resources required to protect our employees and priorities work that supports the government in limiting the spread of Covid-19.”
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