Row over toilet breaks

The union Unite has attacked a meat processing company’s toilet break policy and accused the firm of cutting workers’ wages every time they take a toilet break.

Unite, which represents workers at Dunbia, a meat processing plant based in Sawley, Lancashire, says workers are being forced to take unpaid toilet breaks during work time. This means workers have to clock off to go to the toilet and then clock on again after.

The union is concerned that the restrictive toilet policy is putting the health and dignity of workers at risk, and is urging Dunbia to reverse the policy immediately. It says the company refuses to sit down and hear a collective grievance, signed by over 100 union members at the site, calling for workers to be allowed to use the toilet on paid work time.

Cathy Rudderforth, Unite Regional Official, said:

"Basically, Dunbia is making money every time a worker visits the loo – and that money is coming out of the workers' wage packets.

"It's outrageous that in 2009 workers have to endure the indignity of clocking out for toilet breaks.We've made numerous attempts to speak to Dunbia on behalf of our members in recent weeks, only to be given the 'run around' by a company which clearly wishes to avoid any form of challenge to the manner in which it treat its employees. Its workforce, some of whom are migrants, are extremely frightened to be seen talking to the union. They are vulnerable people, and, as with all workers, deserve to be treated fairly and with respect." 

A spokesperson for Dunbia in Sawley told Workplace Law Network:

“Dunbia is a major food manufacturing operation. Employees are required to clock in and out when accessing / leaving major food processing production floor areas, including visiting the toilet, to ensure their safety and wellbeing on site.

“To ensure that employees do not suffer financial disadvantage, Dunbia increases employees’ weekly wage to compensate for toilet breaks.

“Employees are paid this additional allowance, even where they do not use the time allocated for toilet breaks. This scheme, which has had the continued support of the workforce, has operated satisfactorily since its implementation over five years ago.”