Coronavirus: ASOS 'totally refutes' claims that staff are unsafe at work

Online fashion retailer says it has introduced ‘additional health and safety measures’ to protect its workers

(Getty Images)

ASOS has denied that conditions for its workers are unsafe after the GMB union accused ASOS of “playing Russian Roulette with people’s lives”.

Last week, the union accused the online fashion retailer of refusing to enforce social distancing despite government advice, claiming that up to 4,000 workers were at its warehouse in Grimethorpe, Barnsley.

“Workers report no social distancing measures, a complicated clocking in system which means large numbers of people gather in a small area, and hundreds of workers all breaking for lunch at the same time,” GMB Union said, referencing a survey it had carried out that allegedly suggested ASOS staff felt unsafe under the current working conditions.

However, ASOS has now issued a statement denying the claims.

“Since the lockdown, we have introduced a range of additional health and safety measures and the Environmental Health Officer, who visited the site on Friday, confirmed he was happy with the protocols we have in place,” the company said.

The government has advised that as part of social distancing, people to stay two metres away from one another during the coronavirus outbreak so as to prevent spreading the illness.

The Barnsley Council issued a statement on its website on Monday revealing it visited ASOS’s warehouse and found it has been complying with social distancing measures.

“At no point did our officer see any member of staff not in compliance with this,” it said.

“The company is following national government advice in terms of remaining operational, protecting the welfare of their employees and constantly reviewing how additional measures can be introduced where necessary.

“There are visual markers, frequent reminders, additional cleaners, new eating arrangements, dispersal of lockers and available hand sanitiser around the site.”

The council added that it will continue to support ASOS and other Barnsley businesses making important contributions to its local economy so they can remain open during the lockdown.

The Independent has contacted ASOS for further comment.