Australian posties urged to stop wearing new uniforms over sunburn concerns
Australia Post workers have been asked to stop wearing their new uniforms after reports they were suffering sunburn from the fabric of their new polo shirts while on the job.
Photos of sunburned posts have emerged online, with the Communications Workers Union (CWU) reporting that members are alarmed over whether the new SPF 50 polo shirts offer adequate protection.
An Australia Post spokesman confirmed staff were urged to stop wearing uniforms following concerns.
“Australia Post views the safety of our team members as our number one priority and we have worked quickly to investigate concerns raised about the new SPF50 rated polo shirts,” the spokesperson said.
“Team members were instructed not to wear the shirt and Australia Post offered a number of alternative options until the new polo shirt was safe, suitable and met our quality expectations.
“Australia Post does not expect team members to wear anything unsafe.
“Safety will continue to be our top priority as we work on this issue.”
The fabric has now been sent to a federal government agency for testing.
“Australia Post engaged ARPANSA (Australian Radiation Protection and Nuclear Safety Agency), an official Australian Federal Government agency, to test the fabric to ensure it met the SPF50 rating, which is part of our approved uniform design,” the spokesperson said.
A CWU spokesman encouraged its members to wear alternative sun-protective clothing if they no longer had their old uniform.
“Given the seriousness of the concerns raised, we strongly recommend that members return to wearing the old uniform wherever possible,” the spokesman said.
