Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week 21-27 November 2016 & Month – Reduce the Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Over The Winter 
To: All Branches 
Dear Colleagues, 
Background information
A number of Organisations are running Awareness Campaigns during November and December, including the County Fire and Rescue Services, Public Health England, HSE and HSE(NI), Gas Safe, British Gas and others, to raise the awareness of the serious effects of carbon monoxide poisoning and the devastating consequences it can have on people’s lives. Following action to highlight the risks from carbon monoxide poisoning by Government, PHE, industry, campaign groups and others, the number of deaths from CO poisoning fell but between 2014 and 2016 there has been a worrying 10% increase in accidental CO deaths in the UK. So the CWU Health, Safety & Environment Department is reminding everyone of the dangers of Carbon Monoxide poisoning.
Death & Injury Toll

Recent analysis revealed the hidden toll, each year, from this dangerous invisible gas:
4,000 people go to A&E

200 people are hospitalised

There are around 60 deaths in the UK

Silent Killer 
CO is produced by the incomplete combustion of solid, liquid, and gaseous fuels. It is a highly poisonous gas which is impossible to see, taste or smell and is often known as the ‘silent killer’. Under normal circumstances, CO should not be detectable in the typical home or workplace. When appliances are kept in good working condition, they produce little CO. It is difficult to detect because you can’t see, smell or taste it. Many CO poisoning deaths take place between November and February due to faulty heating appliances and boilers leaking this lethal gas. To lower the risk, we recommend that people should ensure that their fossil fuel and wood burning appliances are regularly checked by an appropriately registered engineer. In addition, people should fit an audible CO alarm which meets European Standards EN 50291 in each room containing an appliance and ensure rooms are adequately ventilated. It’s recommends that people have these appliances and their flues checked before the start of winter, which is when most of the accidental deaths occur.
Key Facts 
Carbon monoxide (CO) poisoning can be fatal or cause permanent damage to your health.

CO is produced when carbon fuels don’t burn completely.

It has no smell or taste and, in large quantities, it can kill very quickly.

What’s carbon monoxide?

It’s a poisonous gas that you can’t see, smell or taste – you might not know it’s there. Carbon monoxide is released when faulty appliances start leaking. Low exposure to the gas can cause long-term damage, and high levels of exposure can be fatal. Every year, around 30 people die from carbon monoxide poisoning – and many more fall sick.
How is carbon monoxide produced? 
Carbon monoxide is hard to detect because it has no smell, taste or colour. This also means that it is easy to inhale without realising.

Carbon monoxide is produced when fuels such as gas, oil, coal and wood do not burn fully.

When a fire burns in an enclosed room, the oxygen in the room is gradually used up and replaced with carbon dioxide. Following a build-up of carbon dioxide in the air, the fuel is prevented from burning fully and it starts to release carbon monoxide.

Causes of carbon monoxide poisoning
Many homes and businesses use appliances that burn fuels such as gas, oil and coal, peat and wood. If these appliances are not installed, maintained, and used properly, carbon monoxide (CO) can build up to dangerous and even deadly levels, particularly in poorly ventilated areas. Using kerosene heaters or charcoal grills indoors, or running a car or van in a garage, can also cause levels high enough to result in CO poisoning. Common sources of CO include the following Gas, oil, coal and wood fuel source appliances, including:
boilers

gas fires

central heating systems

water heaters

cookers

open fires

room heaters

furnaces

charcoal grills

cooking ranges

water heaters

vehicles run in closed garages

fireplaces

portable generators

wood-burning stoves 

Appliances such as electrical heaters, electric water heaters and toasters do not produce CO under any circumstances.
If the fuel in these appliances does not burn fully, carbon monoxide (CO) gas is produced. The build-up of carbon monoxide can also be as a result of any of the following:
Indoor use of a barbecue grill or outdoor heater

Using cooking appliances for heating purposes

Enclosed or unventilated spaces – burning fuel in an enclosed or unventilated space, where there are no air vents, windows or doors left open or ajar

Faulty or damaged appliances – heating or cooking

Heating appliance not maintained or serviced

Badly ventilated rooms – sealed windows, no air bricks

Blocked chimneys or flues – birds’ nests, fallen bricks, growing vegetation, bad DIY

Poor or improper installation or use of appliances – such as cooking and heating devices

Running engines such as cars or lawnmowers in garages

Old appliances that have not been serviced or looked after properly

Paint fumes – Fumes from cleaning fluids and paint removers that contain methylene chloride (dichloromethane) can also cause CO poisoning

Danger signs
Danger signs that CO may be leaking include:
yellow or orange flames where there should normally be blue ones

sooty stains on the walls around fires and water heaters. You could also be poisoned by CO if you share a wall or chimney with a house that has a CO leak, even if your own house does not have one.

Advice 
Get fossil fuel and wood burning appliances like boilers, heaters and cookers checked by an appropriately registered engineer before winter sets in.
The Gas Safe Register
The Gas Safe Register estimates there are around 7,500 illegal gas fitters operating across the UK, and up to 250,000 illegal gas jobs may be carried out each year. All persons employed to work on gas appliances in the United Kingdom, the Isle of Man and Guernsey must be registered with the Gas Safe Register in order to work lawfully. Always check that any engineer undertaking work is ‘Gas Safe registered’. Go to the ‘Gas Safe Register Website’ at: https://www.gassaferegister.co.uk/ [1]or alternatively call the freefone helpline on 0800 408 5500.
Best protection
The best way to protect against carbon monoxide is to make sure all fuel-burning appliances are properly installed by recognised and established engineers, and serviced by competent companies or individuals – at least once a year. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for boilers, stoves, gas fires and solid fuel room heaters. Don’t forget that chimneys and flues should also be inspected annually and swept, if required, by a registered technician.
CO alarms
As a back-up measure, you should also install an audible carbon monoxide alarm – these are widely available to buy from supermarkets, DIY stores or online retailers. Some people may have had CO alarms fitted in the home or workplace for a number of years. However, CO alarms have a limited life span, so they should be checked to see if it is working properly. It might be time to be replaced. Remember, while carbon monoxide alarms can help alert people to the dangers if CO gas escapes, they must never be regarded as a substitute for the proper installation, maintenance, servicing and cleaning of appliances that use gas, coal, oil or any other solid fuel.
Away from home
We normally associate CO with domestic fossil-fuel burning appliances and most of us are aware of its dangers in the home. However, incidents and fatalities relating to CO can also occur in holiday homes, caravans and on board boats where faulty gas cookers, appliances or petrol-powered generators have led to carbon monoxide poisoning. So, make sure all appliances are properly installed and are serviced regularly. Carbon Monoxide poisoning can also occur when people bring gas and charcoal BBQs into tents and other small enclosed spaces, sometimes in an attempt to keep warm.
Symptoms
Early symptoms of Carbon Monoxide (CO) poisoning can mimic many common ailments and may easily be confused with food poisoning, viral infections, flu or simple tiredness. Exposure to high concentration levels of CO, even for a short time, can render a person gradually becoming unconscious. Unfortunately many people do not recover from the unconscious phase. Symptoms to look out for include:
headache

nausea

breathlessness

drowsiness

dizziness

chest pains

nausea and vomiting

collapse

unconsciousness

At high levels, CO poisoning can cause sudden collapse, loss of consciousness and death. If you or your family or colleagues experience any of the above symptoms and you believe CO may be involved, you must seek urgent medical advice from either a doctor or go to an accident and emergency department. You should ask for a blood or breath test to confirm the presence of CO. Be aware, CO quickly leaves the blood and tests may be inaccurate if taken more than four hours after exposure has ceased. 
What to do in an emergency
If you suspect carbon monoxide is present, remember to follow the ‘TASK’ checklist:
T- turn off or extinguish the heating source/appliance if safe to do so

A – air – ventilate your home by opening windows and doors, stay outside in the fresh air

S – seek medical help if you feel unwell

K – keep all heating sources/appliances off until serviced (or chimney/flues cleaned) by a qualified professional

Resources, Information leaflets & Posters attached. 
CO Detector Advice (HSENI)

CO Safety Guidance Booklet (HSENI)

CO Poisoning Poster

CO Poisoning Symptoms Poster

CO Awareness Week 2016 Information Sheet 

Contact Numbers
These organisations can help if you think you have a carbon monoxide leak

Gas Emergency Services 0800 111 999 – Lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week

Scottish Gas Emergency Number 0843 557 4307

NI Gas Emergency Service (24 hours) 0800 002 001

Gas Safe Register 0800 408 5500 Lines are open Monday to Thursday, 9am-5.30pm, and Fridays, 9am-5pm. 

NHS 111 for advice.

Public Health England 020 7654 8000

Public Health Scotland (ISD) 0131 275 7777

Public Health Agency (NI) 028 9031 1611

Public Health Wales 029 2022 7744

Oil Firing Technical Association (OFTEC) helpline: 0845 65 85 080

Solid Fuel Association (SFA) helpline: 0845 601 4406

HETAS (for registered solid fuel engineers): 01684 278170
Yours sincerely
 
Dave Joyce

National Health, Safety & Environment Officer
Email Attachments – Click to download
LTB 685/16 Carbon Monoxide Awareness Week 21-27 November 2016 & Month – Reduce the Risk of Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Over The Winter

Carbon Monoxide Posioning Symptoms

Carbon Monoxide Safety Guidance

Carbon Monoxide Poison Poster

Co Awareness Week

CO Detector Advice HSE

MOVEMBER CAMPAIGN – HIGHLIGHTING MEN’S HEALTH ISSUES – SPECIFICALLY PROSTRATE CANCER, TESTICULAR CANCER AND SUICIDE PREVENTION – HELP SAVE MEN’S LIVES “Movember – Stopping Men Dying Too Young”
To: All Branches
Dear Colleagues,
About The Movember Foundation and Campaign
The aim of the ‘Movember Foundation’ is simply ‘Stopping men dying too young’. Their mission statement says that “Our fathers, partners, brothers and friends face a health crisis that isn’t being talked about. Men are dying too young. We can’t afford to stay silent and that’s why we’re taking action.” The Movember Foundation claims to be the only charity tackling men’s health on a global scale, year round, addressing some of the biggest health issues faced by men: prostate cancer, testicular cancer, and mental health and suicide prevention. The Charity says that they know what works for men, and how to find and fund the most innovative research to have both a global and local impact. They’re independent of government funding, so they can challenge the status quo and invest quicker in what works. In 13 years the Charity proudly claims to have funded more than 1,200 men’s health projects around the world. The Charity’s aspiration is to reduce the number of men dying prematurely by 25%, by 2030. They are appealing for anyone interested to help stop men dying too young by joining the movement. The Movember Foundation’s strategy is all about going where men need them most. They say they know what works for men and they aim to transform the way research into men’s health is done, and the way health services reach and support men.
The Movember Foundation is now concentrating on three key men’s health issues:-
Prostate Cancer:
Prostate cancer is the second most common cancer in men, and rates are on the rise. By 2030 there’ll be 1.7 million men living with prostate cancer. It’s already killing hundreds of thousands of men each year, and those who survive face serious side effects. We can’t afford to let this continue. So the Movember Foundation is taking action. The Movember Foundation says “We’ve spent years learning how to tackle the toughest cancer challenges in innovative ways. Now it’s time to draw a line in the sand. By 2030 they aim to halve the number of men dying from prostate cancer.”
Testicular Cancer:
In most cases, the outcome for men with testicular cancer is positive, but a 95% chance of survival is no comfort to the 1 man in 20 who won’t make it. When testicular cancer strikes, it strikes young. Most of those men are between 15 and 40 years old. We have to help them, and stop men from dying too young. The Movember Foundations says “We’ve spent years learning how to tackle the toughest cancer challenges in innovative ways. Now it’s time to draw a line in the sand. By 2030 we’ll halve the number of men dying from testicular cancer.”
Suicide Prevention:
Depression doesn’t discriminate. And it’s not something that just goes away once you’ve been told to ‘toughen up’ and get on with life. Globally, the rate of suicide is alarmingly high, particularly in men. Around the world, on average we lose a man to suicide every minute of every day. Three out of four suicides are men. Too many are toughing it out and struggling alone. We have to take action to improve mental health and reduce the rate of male suicide. The Movember Foundations says “We’re working toward a world where men and boys take action to be mentally healthy and well, and are supported by their friends, family and community during tough times. We’re working to immediately stop the increase in male suicide rates. By 2030 we’ll reduce the rate of male suicides by 25%.”
Read about the Movember Foundation’s Work:
Prostate Cancer: https://uk.movember.com/programs/prostate-cancer

Testicular Cancer: https://uk.movember.com/programs/testicular-cancer

Mental Health and Suicide Prevention: https://uk.movember.com/programs/mental-health

Movember is an annual campaign, highlighting men’s health issues. The aim of which is to raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health. The Movember Foundation works with men’s health partners, the Prostate Cancer Charity and The Institute of Cancer Research, prompting private and public conversation around the often ignored issue of men’s health. Movember has continued to grow each year, both in terms of participation numbers and funds raised. Since 2003, the Movember Foundation has been committed to helping men live happier, healthier, longer lives. Millions have joined in.
In its first year 30 volunteer fund-raisers known as “Mo-Bros” took part in Movember and since then thanks to the support of ‘Mo Bros’ and ‘Mo Sistas’ the Charity has funded more than 1,200 projects saving and improving the lives of men all around the world.
From humble beginnings back in 2003 the Movember movement has grown to be a global one, inspiring support from over 5 million ‘Mo Bros’ and ‘Mo Sistas’. The Movember Foundation wouldn’t be where it is without the enthusiasm of all of those men and women around the globe and the organisation is committed to keeping things fresh, keeping the community informed, and always being transparent and accountable in their practices.
To date, Movember has raised over £443 million globally for the fight against prostate cancer, testicular cancer and depression in men. Going forward, Movember will continue to work towards helping to change established habits and attitudes and make men aware of the risks they face, thereby increasing early detection, diagnosis and effective treatment
Spreading the Word – How it Works
Movember’s tag line is ‘changing the face of men’s health’ which articulately describes the challenge – volunteers change their appearance by growing a moustache during November and the outcome – changing the understanding and attitudes men have towards their health. The moustache is Movember’s ribbon, it is the catalyst by which Movember intends to bring about real change through the awareness generated by the simple act of growing a Mo. The appearance of a moustache on a usually clean shaven man prompts questions from those around them. Throughout the month of Movember they are constantly asked the question – why the moustache? Each volunteer (Mo-Bro) then needs to justify his new look with an explanation about the unique challenges men face with their health, and key messages about prostate and testicular cancer and male depression and suicide. The result is a highly effective and authentic word-of-mouth campaign. 
The ‘Mens Health’ Awareness and Education Issue
On average men die five to six years younger than women. The suicide rate is four times higher for men than women and more than five men die prematurely each hour from potentially preventable illnesses. These are hard hitting facts; especially when you consider that there is no biological disadvantage that puts men at greater risk than women and according to recent research up to half of male cancer cases could be prevented by making healthy diet and lifestyle choices. The reasons for the current state of men’s health are numerous and complex but it appears that the biggest issue is the way in which men think about their health; preventative health being something many men just don’t compute. It is this issue that Movember’s Awareness and Education program is working hard to change. Awareness and education alters behaviour and mind-sets, it gradually breaks down barriers, removes stigmas and brings about real change. Movember wants men to take responsibility for their health, prevent illness by leading a healthy lifestyle and understand the symptoms and signs in both themselves and others so they can appreciate when and how to seek help if needed.
Prostate Cancer Facts
One man dies every hour of prostate cancer in the UK.

Prostate cancer is the most common cancer in men in the UK.

In the UK 41,000 men are diagnosed every year, over 100 a day.

1 in 9 men will get prostate cancer in the UK.

250,000 men are living with prostate cancer.

10,000 men die every year from prostate cancer in the UK.

Ethnicity: African Caribbean men are three times more likely to develop prostate cancer.

Family: you are 2.5 times more likely to develop prostate cancer if your father or brother has had it.

Diet: if you have a diet rich in fat, dairy products and red meat, this may increase your risk of developing prostate cancer (and other health conditions).

It is important that men of all ages are aware of their prostate and prostate cancer.

Testicular Cancer Facts
There are around 2,300 new cases of testicular cancer in the UK every year, that’s around 6 cases diagnosed every day.

Testicular cancer accounts for less than 1% of all new cases in the UK.

In males in the UK, testicular cancer is the 16th most common cancer, with around 2,300 cases diagnosed.

Almost half (47%) of testicular cancer cases in the UK each year are diagnosed in males aged under 35.

Since the late 1970s, testicular cancer incidence rates in males have increased by 90% in Great Britain.

Over the last decade, testicular cancer incidence rates in males have increased by around a tenth (11%) in the UK.

Most testicular cancers occur in descended testicles.

Incidence rates for testicular cancer are projected to rise by 12% in the UK between 2014 and 2035, to 10 cases per 100,000 males by 2035.

1 in 195 men will be diagnosed with testicular cancer during their lifetime.

Testicular cancer in England is less common in males living in the most deprived areas.

Testicular cancer is more common in White males than in Asian or Black males.

In the UK around 18,600 people were still alive up to ten years after being diagnosed with testicular cancer.

In Europe, around 21,500 new cases of testicular cancer were estimated to have been diagnosed. The UK incidence rate is 19th highest in Europe.

Worldwide, around 55,300 new cases of testicular cancer were estimated to have been diagnosed, with incidence rates varying across the world.

Suicide Facts
There are around 6,600 suicides in the UK and Republic of Ireland each year.

This corresponds to a suicide rate of 10.8 per 100,000 people (16.8 per 100,000 for men and 5.2 per 100,000 for women).

The highest annual suicide rate in the UK is for men aged 45-49 at 26.5 per 100,000.

The male suicide rate decreased in the UK (by 5.6%), England (by less than 1%), Wales (by 37.6%), Scotland (by 17.6%), Northern Ireland (by 10.2%) and Republic of Ireland (by 6.4%) the last full year of available statistics.

Female suicide rates increased in the UK (by 8.3%), England (by 14%), Scotland (by 7.8%) and Republic of Ireland (by 14.7%) between 2013 and 2014. Female suicide rates decreased in Wales (by 38.2%) and Northern Ireland (by 17.7%).

The female suicide rate in England is at its highest since 2005.

The female suicide rate in the UK is at its highest since 2011.

Is Movember Making a Difference?
The answer is yes. Recent research carried out by Movember highlighted that the campaign is working successfully in terms of raising awareness whilst having a positive impact on making men think about their health. Movember participants were shown to spend more time thinking about health issues or reflecting on them than non-participants (the general population). To be specific, in the UK, the research revealed:
89% of participants spent time thinking about improving their general health
57% of participants have had a general check-up
70% discussed men’s health with their family, friends or colleagues during Movember
58% carried out personal research on men’s health issues during Movember
51% worried about their general health
77% understood that their health depends on how well they take care of themselves
The research encouragingly shows that participation in Movember does encourage men to proactively engage in the management of their health. However, findings also highlighted that 50% of men had ignored an issue rather than go to a doctor. This is proof that there is still work to be done and Movember has a responsibility to keep raising awareness, thereby motivating and engaging men around the world to change the face of men’s health.
“MOVEMBER” Website:- http://uk.movember.com/
A significant number of CWU National, Regional and Branch Officers have participated in the ‘Movember’ fund raising efforts since the movement started and our congratulations goes out to them all – please give them your full support.
Thanks for your support.
Yours sincerely
Dave Joyce

National Health, Safety & Environment Officer
 
Email Attachments – Click to download
Attachment 1 – LTB687/16 MOVEMBER CAMPAIGN – HIGHLIGHTING MEN’S HEALTH ISSUES – SPECIFICALLY PROSTRATE CANCER, TESTICULAR CANCER AND SUICIDE PREVENTION

MR PAUL MALONEY BRANCH CHAIR BIRMINGHAM AND DISTRICT BRANCH

Further to LTB 585/15, it is with profound sadness that I have to advise you that Paul Maloney, Branch Chair, Birmingham District Amal Branch passed away on Saturday 19th November 2016.

Paul was 53 years of age and had recently suffered a number of serious health issues, including sepsis and had been hospitalised twice, most recently at the start of November after contracting MRSA. Unfortunately, Paul was unable to survive these serious health issues and passed away peacefully at the Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Birmingham. 

Paul leaves a wife, Jackie and three daughters, Laura, Kate and Helen.

Paul will be remembered as an inspirational man who met his life changing challenges with great dignity and humour. I know that he will be sorely missed by all his friends and colleagues in the union.

At this sad time our thoughts are of course with Paul’s wife, daughters and all his close family and friends. I will on behalf of the CWU convey our deepest sympathy and condolences to them.

We would wish to take this opportunity to thank Branches, Reps and members for all of the support given to Paul in so many ways. This support meant so much to Paul, his family and the Birmingham District Amal Branch.

A further LTB will be issued detailing funeral arrangements for Paul in due course.

If you have any enquiries on this LTB, these should be addressed to the General Secretary’s Office at gsoffice@cwu.org quoting the reference GS1.1/LTB 684/16.

 

 

Yours sincerely
Dave Ward

General Secretary

Post Office Crisis – Postcard Campaign
‎As branches are aware since we started our campaign against Post Office closures, job losses and pension cuts; the government has launched a public consultation on the future of the Post Office.
As set out in LTB 659/16, ‎it is extremely important that we use this opportunity to get public support for the key demands in our dispute with the Post Office and put as much pressure as possible on the government. 
We are therefore running a ‎campaign to get tens of thousands of responses to the consultation calling for an end to the closure and franchise programme and for a new strategy for the Post Office based on growth, in particular with the establishment of a Post Bank. Branches will be receiving a campaign pack which includes postcards that we are asking people to add their name to, which we can then submit to the government in December. We would urge branches to make every effort to get as many postcards completed and returned to CWU Headquarters as soon as possible (these should not be sent to BEIS directly).
Our members in the Post Office are facing the closure of the defined benefit pension scheme – which will leave many of them tens of thousands of pounds worse off in retirement – thousands of job losses and the continued managed decline of the network putting job security at risk. As we have said previously, with the Post Office being entirely owned by the government, the union’s dispute with the Post Office has a political angle and together with industrial action it is extremely important that we put public pressure on the government in order to defend our members.
‎All branches are therefore asked to treat this campaign as a priority over the coming weeks and target large workplaces and any public meetings and events to get as many postcards signed as possible. 
‎Finally, as Branches will have seen, the debate we secured on the future of the Post Office in parliament took place yesterday afternoon. The debate was positive for the union, with the Post Office and the government coming in for severe criticism from MPs from all parties who were pushing our key lines and many of whom had been working with the union locally. A transcript of the debate is available here: https://hansard.parliament.uk/Commons/2016-11-17/debates/16111746000001/BackbenchBusiness
We will be continuing to put pressure on the government through parliament and would ask branches to continue to lobby MPs, particularly in Conservative constituencies. 
Any queries on the contents of this LTB should be addressed to GSoffice@cwu.org and any requests for postcards should be made to mmurray@cwu.org. 
 
Yours sincerely  
 
Dave Ward Terry Pullinger
General Secretary Deputy General Secretary (Postal)
Email Attachments – Click to download
LTB 683/16 – Post Office Crisis – Postcard Campaign

Suspect Letters/Packets Containing Drugs & Royal Mail Group Handover of Mail to Police Officers and HM Customs Officers Procedure & Guidance:
To: All Branches
Dear Colleagues,
A small number of cases have come to our attention where individual members on sorting duties have come across letters or packets in the mail which they suspect contain illegal, prohibited drugs, due to the obviously strong pungent odour being given off by the item concerned. However when the items were referred to management, the incidents were not always handled correctly, in one case with a manager threatening a Postman/OPG member with Conduct Code action when he refused to deliver it and insisted, quite correctly, that the matter be referred to Royal Mail Security and the Police. The manager concerned handled the matter incorrectly and was unaware of the correct Royal Mail official procedures to follow. Clearly the manager in that case should have sought appropriate advice which did not happen. Our member, on the other hand did the right and proper thing in identifying the suspect package and referring it to management for the appropriate actions via Royal Mail Security and the Police.
This LTB therefore is to raise awareness amongst Representatives of the correct procedure, should our members identify a suspect package containing suspected drugs. The procedure is set out in the attached copy of the Royal Mail Guidance “RMG Handover of Mail to Police and Customs Procedure,” Version 6.0, dated November 2014, Reviewed November 2016, Section 3. This reads as follows:-
3. Prohibited Drugs in the Mail
3.1 The Misuse of Drugs Act 1971 prohibits the import, export, supply and possession of controlled drugs. If a postal packet is suspected of containing prohibited drugs please have regard to the information below.
3.2 Overseas Packet into or out of the UK. Where a postal packet is suspected of containing prohibited drugs and the packet has come from abroad or is destined to go out of the United
Kingdom then the Postal Services Act 2000 allows the detention of the packet so that it can be handed over to a Customs Officer. The Customs Officer may open the postal packet in the presence of a Royal Mail employee. The suspect postal packet can be detained at any point in the Royal Mail pipeline.
3.3 UK Postal Packets. If Royal Mail staff identify a postal packet that is suspected of containing prohibited drugs and the packet has not come from abroad and is not destined to go out of the United Kingdom the Police and the Security Helpdesk (020 7239 6655) or out of hours, Central Postal Control on 0345 266 1060 should be contacted.
3.4 The Police Officer attending Royal Mail premises should be shown the suspect postal packet. Without opening it, the Police Officer should confirm whether the postal packet contains prohibited drugs. If there is a positive identification by the Police Officer or by a Police sniffer dog that prohibited drugs are present the Police should be informed that a controlled delivery can be facilitated by Royal Mail Security. Alternatively, they can remove the postal packet unopened after completing the receipt embedded below. (GS231 Receipt for Postal Item)
3.5 Where this is dealt with by CPC the actions taken will be entered on the CPC Log as a RM Security incident and reported to the Security Helpdesk.
3.6 If the Police Officer is unable to identify the contents of the unopened postal packet then Royal Mail Security can still arrange a controlled delivery.
3.7 A controlled delivery is one where either the Police deliver the postal packet as an agent of Royal Mail or the delivery is undertaken by a Royal Mail employee at a time known to the Police. Postal packets must not be delayed in order to facilitate a controlled delivery.
3.8 Should it be decided that a controlled delivery is the preferred course of action the Security Helpdesk should be contacted on 0207 239 6655 who may make further arrangements with the relevant Investigation Team Manager.
3.9 If the Police contact Royal Mail alleging that a specific postal packet is suspected of containing prohibited drugs then arrangements should be made for the Police to attend the relevant location and identify the postal packet. When the postal packet has been identified the process in 3.4 and 3.5 should be followed.
3.10 A postal packet which is suspected of containing prohibited drugs should not be opened at any time by a Royal Mail employee. Once a postal packet has been identified by an expert as containing prohibited drugs then the Police or Customs should be allowed to deal with the packet as they think fit. A Police Officer, Customs Officer or sniffer dog will be regarded as an expert for the purposes of the identification of prohibited drugs. ©
If incidents occur, CWU Reps should refer managers to the attached Royal Mail Guide and advise them to contact either the Security Helpdesk (020 7239 6655) or out of hours, Central Postal Control on 0345 266 1060 for further advice. Security help desk will then take control of the situation and give the appropriate advice, which invariably results in the matter being referred to the Police who may take the package or letter away for further investigation after issuing an official receipt. This is the normal process if an item is identified if it has progressed down the mail pipeline to either a Processing Centre or Delivery Office.
If a suspect drugs containing item is identified at an International Inward Office, the process is slightly different in that it would be referred to Customs Officers working on site within the office.
In conclusion, our members identifying such packages for further investigation have and should continue to do the right thing in reporting these matters and should be congratulated and commended for their attention to the matter and wanting the appropriate action taken. There should of course be no negative repercussions aimed at members for their vigilance in such cases when they occur. 
Would all CWU Area Representatives, Safety, Delivery, Distribution, Processing please note the attached guide and correct procedures and support and advise members and managers accordingly as and when required should incidents occur as outlined above and ensure the appropriate action is taken should members find themselves in a similar situation on discovering a suspected package or letter containing illegal, prohibited substances.
Yours sincerely
Dave Joyce

National Health, Safety & Environment Officer
 
Email Attachments – Click to download
Attachment 1 – LTB680/16 Suspect Letters/Packets Containing Drugs

Attachment 2 – RMG Inviolability of Mail Guide for Ops v6 Nov 2014

New Royal Mail 2016 Peugeot Expert L2 H1 (Euro 6) Van Introduction – Technical, Operational and Safety Changes Information:
To: All Branches
Dear Colleagues,
Royal Mail are currently introducing the new 2016 Peugeot Expert L2 H1 (Euro 6) Van into the Royal Mail Fleet. The Health, Safety & Environment Department have been informed of a number of Technical, Operational and Safety changes to this vehicle in comparison with predecessor models and the following information in this LTB has been collated to give an update to Area and Workplace Health and Safety Representatives and Branches about the Changes as follows:-
Blind spot monitoring system.

Front & Rear parking sensors.

Grab Handles at the Side & Rear Doors Entry/Exit points.

An LED Lamp in the load area.

Hi Viz Safety Livery.

Front Fog Lamps.

Screenwashers/Headlamp Washers.

Tyre Size: 215/65/R16C – Load Rating 106/104T.

Tyre pressures PSI (F) 43 & (R) 50.

5 Bolt Steel Wheel Rims with Wheel Bolt Torque Setting 11daNm.

Fuel Tank Capacity 70 litres.

Adblue Tank capacity 22 litres.

Engine Oil Capacity 5.6 litres (inc. filter).

Under the bonnet:

Tyre size: 215/65/R16C – Load Rating 106/104T

Tyre pressures PSI (F) 43 & (R) 50

5 bolt steel wheel rims, Wheel Bolt Torque Setting 11daNm.

Fuel Tank capacity 70 litres.

Adblue Tank with Capacity of 22 litres.

Engine Oil capacity 5.6 litres (inc. filter)

Adblue filler positioned at the N/S B pillar and you open the N/S/F door to access it.

Bonnet Catch positioned N/S foot well.

Heavy Duty Battery & Alternator fitted as standard.

The attached PowerPoint document provides information that has been collated to give the Fleet Workshops and Operators an overview.
Also attached is a copy of the ‘Auto Express’ review article on the Peugeot Expert.
Yours sincerely
Dave Joyce

National Health, Safety & Environment Officer
 
 
Email Attachments – Click to download
Attachment 1 – LTB679/16 New Royal Mail 2016 Peugeot Expert L2 H1 (Euro 6) Van Introduction

Attachment 2 – New Euro6 Peugeot Expert Van Info

Attachment 3 – Auto Express Peugeot Expert Review

Membership Records – Updating Postal Branches Records
Branches will be aware of changes to legislation in respect of the new Trade Union Act 2016 and the Trade Union Admin Act, in particular the additional constraints placed upon the union when initiating Industrial Action Ballot requests.
We are currently considering and reviewing our membership data to ensure both HQ and branches are complying with any new legislation regarding Industrial Action requests. Postal Branches will recall that the last time we carried out a similar exercise was before the National Postal Industrial Action Ballot in 2013. Taking these facts into consideration and alongside the knowledge that the Independent Assurer will be performing a full audit of our records early in the New Year, we have decided to carry out a full check of our Postal membership data.
The exercise will begin this week with an analysis of our workplaces within Royal Mail Group, this will include a full run of all members currently paying their subscriptions by the Deduction at Source method (DAS) within Royal Mail workplaces. This will be completed by Monday 7th November 2016. Following this we are requesting that from Tuesday 8th November all Branch Secretary’s check their own data unit by unit and ensure all names and numbers are accurate. This exercise must be completed with any discrepancies sent to Martin Akerman Policy Advisor at makerman@cwu.org by Monday 21st November 2016.
Any enquiries regarding this Letter to Branches should be addressed to the Senior Deputy General Secretary’s Department on telephone number 020 8971 7237, or email address sdgs@cwu.org.
Yours sincerely,
 
TONY KEARNS
SENIOR DEPUTY GENERAL SECRETARY
Email Attachments – Click to download
LTB 640/16 – Membership Records – Updating Postal Branches Records

CHRISTMAS & NEW YEAR ARRANGEMENTS 2016
 
Dear Colleagues
 
Please find attached, as Appendix A to this document, for the information of Branches the agreement in respect of Christmas and New Year arrangements for 2016/17, which was endorsed by the Postal Executive at its meeting on the 15th November 2016.
The subject of evening Parcel Deliveries has been an issue of contention during these discussions and has contributed to a delay in concluding an agreement. Extensive discussions between the Outdoor department and the business have however resulted in agreement that the wording in the attached agreement for 2016/17 mirrors that of last year in relation to Parcel Deliveries.
In relation to Enquiry Office opening hours on the 31st December the business has confirmed that normal local Saturday arrangements will apply and no office will remain open beyond 18.00.
With regard to attendance arrangements all safeguards achieved in previous years have been retained in this year’s agreement. These include:
 
Improved wording on maximising employee aspirations for time off by utilising the full range of resourcing options (Para 3.5)

Acceptance that where agreed resourcing arrangements result in attendance beyond conditioned hours, staff may either elect to receive a lieu day or the appropriate overtime rate for the additional hours (Para 3.6)

That any resultant overtime on either Bank Holiday will attract normal Bank Holiday rates (option A or B) (Para 3.7)

That night operations will commence as appropriate on the 27th December and 2nd January (3rd January in Scotland) allowing discussions on a later start time where that is locally desirable.

In addition to the attached Christmas Arrangements the business has also supplied a copy of their Planning Document, XPD 8.4 Working Time Limits, which provides clarity in relation to the arrangements for hours that may be worked during the Christmas pressure period. A copy of the guidelines is attached as Appendix B to this document for information purposes.
Please note that in recent years arrangements for Network Drivers have been concluded in a specific agreement and this has remained the case for the 2016/17 arrangements. Branches should note that a Letter to Branches will be issued by the relevant department to communicate the arrangements for Network Drivers.
Any enquiries in relation to this LTB should be directed to the relevant department:

 
Davie Robertson, Assistant Secretary, email: dwyatt@cwu.org or shayman@cwu.org quoting reference number: 706A.07
and
Mark Baulch, Acting Assistant Secretary, email outdoorsecretary@cwu.org quoting reference number: 170  
 
Yours sincerely
 
 
 
 
Davie Robertson Mark Baulch
Assistant Secretary Assistant Secretary
 
 
 
Email Attachments – Click to download
Lyn 674/16 – Christmas & New Year Arrangements 2016

Attachment 1 – Appendix A

Attachment 2 – Apprendix B

Movement of Sorting Frames in Royal Mail Delivery Offices, Mail Processing Units, Mail Centres Etc – ‘Mandatory’ Procedure:
To: All Branches
Dear Colleagues,
Following a recent incident involving the breach of health and safety procedures in a Delivery Office by local managers, the CWU Health, Safety & Environment Department is re-issuing information and guidance to Branch Area Health and Safety Representatives and Branch Officials.
The following information may assist for future reference:-
Following a Serious Structural Failure of a Sorting Frame and Dangerous Occurrence/Near Miss in 2012 a Joint Investigation was immediately initiated and a number of remedial actions were put in place including a national inspection programme of all Sorting Frames in all Offices. This revealed a significant number found to be in an unsafe condition and or configuration and all issues were subsequently rectified through a remedial action programme.
One of the agreed outcomes was a “MANDATORY” Instruction issued to all Operational Managers NOT TO MOVE SORTING FRAMES.
It was agreed that it is important that both basic and extended Sorting Frame configurations are moved, constructed, altered, re-configured safely, ONLY by competently trained Romec Engineers who have the approved tools, equipment and components and kit available to them to ensure that all frames are constructed to a safe, sound and robust standard and are moved safely (without being damaged or the Frame’s integrity weakened) to new agreed locations in the Office.
Romec Engineers have the agreed ‘Work Method Statements’ and ‘Safe Systems of Work’ for the installation, alteration or movement of existing or new Frames/Fittings or making changes to the location of existing Fittings as this clearly needs adequate risk assessment, controls, monitoring and safety checks when completed to safeguard the health, safety and welfare of the workforce bearing in mind past experiences.
Managers involved in incidents of moving Frames themselves, outside the Royal Mail Safety Standard should know better and there is no excuse for ignoring Royal Mail’s procedures and Instructions. Any similar incidents should be immediately reported and investigated and the matter dealt with appropriately by their superiors.
The CWU/HQ Health, Safety & Environment Department working with Royal Mail Operations HQ, spent a lot of time on this, getting it right in 2012. Additionally in 2012, it was also agreed with Royal Mail that DSMs and DOMs should liaise locally with ASRs/WSRs on these matters ensuring safety checks were carried out jointly.
ASRs/WSRs should point out to managers considering any office re-organisations/re-configurations to consult with all interested parties and stakeholders prior to proceeding with and changes, fully involving the CWU ASR and other Reps, Property team, Safety team, Delivery team, Programmes team etc., and they should be advised not to start moving kit and equipment, sorting frames etc., around Delivery Units or other Operational Units (MPUs/MCs etc.) outside of the recognised safety procedures.  
See attached copy of the relevant Instructions and documents.
The relevant Health and Safety Legislation: Health and Safety At Work Act 1974
S2 States that it is the duty of every employer to ensure the health, safety and welfare at work of all his/her employees, providing a safe place and safe system of work, safe plant and equipment, regularly maintained, safe access and egress, safe handling, storage and transport of articles and substances, provision of information, instruction, training and supervision as is necessary to ensure health and safety at work of his employees.
PUWER 1998 (Provision of Use and Work Equipment Regulations)
The Regulations require employers to ensure that equipment provided at work is safe and suitable for use, maintained in a safe condition, inspected, used only by those informed, instructed and trained.
Yours sincerely
Dave Joyce

National Health, Safety & Environment Officer
 
Email Attachments – Click to download
Attachment 1 – LTB675/16 Movement of Sorting Frames in Royal Mail Delivery Offices, Mails Processing Units, Mail Centres

Attachment 2 – Correct Methods For Movement of Sorting Fittings

Attachment 3 – Collapsed Frame

Attachment 4 – Installation of backless C4 Greenock frames