Evaluation Errors Put Hundreds of Workers at Risk

Salerno Healthcare workers Protest Potential Staff Cuts Following Tender Announcement

Workers in the hygiene and sanitation services of the Salerno healthcare system are expressing serious concerns following the publication of a new tender for service procurement in hospitals and healthcare facilities managed by the Local Health Authority (ASL) of salerno. The Ugl Environmental Hygiene trade union is warning of potential job losses and a decline in the quality of healthcare services.

Concerns Over Service Evaluation and Staffing Levels

The union argues that the new contract contains flawed evaluations of the services currently provided by workers. These errors, if unaddressed, could lead to significant reductions in both staff numbers and working hours. According to Massimiliano Cafaro,the provincial secretary of Ugl Environmental Hygiene,this poses a “real social massacre” as the healthcare sector is already understaffed.

“Cutting further means bringing hygiene, logistics and essential services for the health of citizens to its knees,” Cafaro stated. The union highlights that existing staff are already working with reduced hours, and further cuts would severely impact the ability to maintain adequate hygiene and safety standards within healthcare facilities.

Recognition of Workers’ Contributions During the Pandemic

The union emphasized the critical role these workers played during the COVID-19 pandemic, risking their health and the well-being of their families to maintain essential services. they argue that these contributions are not being adequately recognized, with workers continuing to face low wages.

Call for Tender Review and Dialog

Ugl Environmental Hygiene is demanding that the tender be withdrawn and thoroughly reviewed to accurately reflect the needs of healthcare facilities and the current staffing levels. Cafaro urged for a pause in the process to “seriously reflect on the services to be guaranteed in hospitals and to protect the workers who have been ensuring cleanliness, safety and dignity to public healthcare for years.”

The union is requesting an immediate discussion with all relevant institutions and stakeholders,seeking “clear,serious and immediate explanations” and the urgent convening of all social partners. They have warned that if their concerns are not addressed, they will take “all the necessary initiatives to defend the rights and work of all workers, without exclusions.”

Key Takeaways

• A new tender for hygiene and sanitation services in Salerno’s healthcare system is facing opposition from workers and the Ugl Environmental Hygiene union.
• The union fears the tender’s evaluation criteria will lead to significant staff reductions and a decline in service quality.
• Workers are seeking a review of the tender and a dialogue with relevant authorities to address their concerns.
• The union highlights the essential role these workers played during the COVID-19 pandemic and their ongoing struggle with low wages.