Covid-19 Waste Collection Staff 2020-04-28
2020-04-28
TAGS
Response quality
Questions & Answers
Q1
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about the safety of waste collectors amid the pandemic and references previous discussions on key workers who have lost their lives.
What guidance has the Department provided to local authorities on safe working practices for waste collection staff during the covid-19 outbreak?
Our binmen and women have done a fantastic job. The Government published advice to councils on how to ensure the safety of refuse collections on 7 April. Public Health England has provided guidance recommending that staff should wash their hands for 20 seconds before getting in and out of vehicles, or use hand sanitiser where handwashing is not possible. We will ensure that councils follow this advice.
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Assessment & feedback
The MP asked about steps taken to ensure the guidance spreads across the country and best practices are followed, but the response was vague on these specifics.
Response accuracy
Q2
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP continues to stress the importance of providing waste collection staff with the necessary protective equipment.
What steps is the Secretary taking to ensure that advice and best practice are being followed across the country to protect these key workers?
Public Health England has provided guidance recommending that staff should wash their hands for 20 seconds before getting in and out of vehicles, or use hand sanitiser where handwashing is not possible. We will ensure that councils follow this advice to protect the workers.
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Assessment & feedback
The MP asked about steps taken to ensure best practices are followed but received only a restatement of guidance without specifics on enforcement or nationwide implementation.
Response accuracy
Q3
Partial Answer
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Context
The MP is concerned about delays in setting up an online system for councils to order personal protective equipment.
When will the online portal for councils to order PPE be open, and can the Secretary give a guarantee that councils will receive all necessary PPE?
Over 50 million items of PPE have been delivered in the past three weeks, with 36 million going to care homes. The online Clipper service is being piloted and will be rolled out in the coming weeks.
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Assessment & feedback
The MP asked for a specific timeline and guarantee but received only details on existing distribution without addressing the portal's launch date or supply guarantees.
Response accuracy