REFUSE collectors in Wirral refused to work due to safety fears surround the ongoing coronavirus outbreak.

Wirrial Council’s outsourced refuse staff walked out yesterday (Tuesday, April 7) as their union Unite claimed that Biffa – the company that employs them – has failed to respect social distancing and the health concerns of workers.

Union bosses said that under section 44 of the Employment Rights Act, workers have a right to withdraw their labour if they believe their health and safety is being placed in immediate danger.

Unite regional officer Steven Gerrard said: “For over a fortnight Unite has been trying to ensure that Biffa introduced measures to protect our members and they have failed to do so. We have been calling for an urgent meeting to find a safe workable solution to our member’s health concerns.

“The workers have now decided enough is enough and will not continue to have their health and the health of their families placed at needless risk.

“Residents of the Wirral will be alarmed that their refuse workers, who are playing a key worker role, are being treated with such disregard."