Binmen ready to do battle on shorts

Binmen banned from wearing shorts could be set to mount a legal challenge against bosses.

We told how South Ayrshire Council has outlawed the summer clothing despite temperatures soaring.

Now a furious trade union has lodged an official grievance demanding a U- turn.

GMB officials say it is “concerning” that their complaints have been ignored. The union’s Benny Rankin said: “The fact that South Ayrshire Council has refused to engage face to face with the trade union shows a complete lack of respect to their employees.

“And it is only by virtue of luck rather than common sense they did not have the situation of a serious health and safety incident.

“Employees in North Ayrshire are permitted to wear appropriate shorts – not only in extreme heat but also during the summer.

“I am bewildered that they can perform the same function of duties with the same operational risks attached, yet North Ayrshire Council can have a more common sense approach.

“I have received no answer to that.”

A collective grievance raised earlier this month has so far gone unanswered, GMB bosses say.

Mr Rankin added: “The raising of any health and safety issue has to be taken seriously by an employer and should be looked at and addressed swiftly in order to avoid any complications to their employees who may be affected.

“In this instance South Ayrshire Council have not which is disappointing and extremely concerning.”

A council spokesman said: “We have set procedures in place to review grievances, with all cases considered in line with this process.”