Restoring our dignity

Unite has won a long–running campaign for the right of delivery drivers to use an employers’ toilets while conducting deliveries.

From this week employers in control of non-domestic premises are obliged to allow people who are not their employees but use their premises to access toilets and washing facilities.

The change in the regulations is a result of Unite’s campaign to end the problem of drivers having to go to the toilet behind bushes, or have to continually ‘hold on’ due to being denied access to toilet facilities.

Having to continually hold on to use a toilet has wide ranging health implications which include: urinary tract infections, damage to the bladder and the bowel, and can cause toxins to build up in the body.

Women drivers have additional requirements to have access to toilets and face the additional risk of developing infections if they are denied such access.

The requirement to give access to toilets and washing facilities also means that drivers can ensure that their hands are clean and hygienic. This is particularly important if drivers are making food deliveries.

“Finally drivers have won the right to access toilet facilities when making deliveries,” said Unite national officer Adrian Jones. “This reform would not have occurred without Unite’s continued campaigning on this matter.

“This change in the application of the regulations is highly significant as it restores the dignity of drivers by giving them the right to use an employer’s toilet and hand washing facilities.

“If employers continue to refuse our members access to toilets we will pursue them through all avenues open to us and that will include naming and shaming companies that deny drivers the right to spend a penny.”