Italian Delivery Riders Demand Improved Conditions Amid Heatwave
Delivery riders across several Italian cities are staging strikes on Wednesday, seeking enhanced working conditions as they contend with the severe summer heat. In Milan, city officials have implemented restrictions on deliveries during the peak heat hours, effective until September. Riders working for platforms like Glovo and Deliveroo are set to suspend their services in the evening to advocate for both their wages and health protection.
Strikes in Major Cities
In Bologna, delivery riders intend to deactivate their apps and participate in demonstrations in the city's center. A similar work stoppage is planned in Florence, where the mercury is expected to soar to 40°C this week. This action is part of a broader European movement, as workers in other regions also call for improved conditions during heatwaves.
According to the European Trade Union Institute, approximately 130 million European workers are exposed to heat stress annually in their workplaces. In southern Spain's Andalusia region, a union has criticized Glovo's summer protocol, claiming it inadequately protects riders when temperatures near 45°C. Similarly, French teachers' unions have recently encouraged strikes due to complaints about classroom conditions amid high temperatures, prompting thousands of schools to close or adjust schedules.
Policy Measures and Responses
Last month, Milan authorities directed companies utilizing bicycle-based delivery services through digital platforms to curtail or halt operations between 12:30 and 16:00 until September 23, suggesting prioritization of cooler times for work. Additionally, they mandated provisions for water, breaks, and refreshment areas on critical heat days.
However, the Nildil Cgil trade union argues that companies should allocate resources to prevent financial losses for workers. Andrea Bacchin, a union spokesperson, emphasized the need for solutions from both companies and Milan's prefect to safeguard the riders' health without financial detriment.
In Florence and Tuscany, outdoor work on construction sites and in agriculture is prohibited from 12:30 to 16:00 if heat stress poses significant health risks. Union representatives note that many workers cannot afford to forgo working during these hours.
Ongoing Negotiations
Discussions with the labor ministry in Rome are scheduled for Thursday to address social safety nets for workers. The BBC has reached out to Glovo for comments concerning the situation in Spain and Italy. Meanwhile, JustEat has clarified that its riders are not participating in the Milan strikes, as they are engaged in ongoing discussions with local unions to devise appropriate measures.
Source: Original Article
