On Friday, Reuters reported that United Airlines and Delta Air Lines are asking flight attendants to proceed to work, even when their co-workers test positive for the coronavirus. These employees are still being requested to monitor themselves for COVID-19 signs, whilst they proceed to work.
In response to its report, Reuters spoke with no less than three United workers and reviewed “a couple of dozen” feedback in an online private chat for United Airlines workers, the place people complained in regards to the policy.
One employee even informed Reuters that United’s policy appears “unsafe” to workers.
The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA (AFA) also informed Reuters that the union has obtained complaints from flight attendants about United’s quarantine protocols. The union also reportedly stated it has obtained “some complaints” from flight attendants about Delta’s quarantine protocols, which are just like United’s.
“The health and safety of our workers and customers is our highest priority, which is why we have now insurance policies and procedures in place as a part of a multi-layered approach to create a safer travel environment,” a United spokesperson stated in a statement. “We adhere to the FAA’s SAFO (Safety Alert for Operators) and CDC guidance pertaining to how we stop the spread of COVID-19 and handle lively instances for crewmembers.”
In response to the FAA’s SAFO dated Dec. 10, publicity — or “shut contact” — to the coronavirus means being inside six feet of someone with the virus for at least 15 minutes. Anybody who has been exposed to somebody with COVID-19 is suggested to quarantine earlier than returning to work, the alert says.
United informed Reuters that if any of its workers meet these standards, they’re requested to quarantine. In the event that they don’t, they’re requested to observe themselves for signs and proceed to work.
“Nothing is extra essential than the protection and health of our people,” the spokesperson stated.
