The GMB Trade Union has accused Brighton Bus Company of failing to protect its staff from assaults due to not installing protective screens on all of its fleet on the grounds of cost.

The Union has today learnt that another one of its members has been injured at work as a result of being assaulted by a passenger, and believes that this assault would not have happened if screens had been in place.

This has long been a problem at the company; with the latest assault coming on top of at least 15 assaults that took place last year. One of these assaults was particularly violent and has left a member of the GMB unable to return to work since.

The Company is making sure that all new buses have screens installed but has refused to upgrade its existing fleet. Staff have previously asked them to ensure that all vehicles have protective screens installed, but have been told that this will not be done as it is not ‘economical.’

The GMB believes that if the screens are not put in place soon then it could result in lives being lost, however the company has refused to consult the GMB on Health and Safety matters and has barred its stewards from attending health and safety meetings.

Rob Macey, GMB Organiser for Brighton Bus Company said:

‘The GMB believes that cost should not be a factor when considering the health and safety of staff and is calling on Brighton Bus Company to install protective screens on all of its buses’

ENDS

Contact: Rob Macey, GMB Organiser on 07710 618 908 or 01273 570126 or Mark Turner GMB Branch Secretary on 07860 787973