Today (November 29), the GMB union is carrying out a protest demonstration outside a Welsh Amazon depot after workers reported having to work under 'dangerous' conditions.
According to Wales Online , the union is calling for the workers to be "shown empathy" on Black Friday, which is one of the busiest shopping days of the years for Amazon.
After investigating Amazon's working practices, it's been revealed that more than 600 ambulances have been called out to Amazon warehouses in three years.
More than 600 incidents have been reported to the Health and Safety Executive, including fractures, head injuries and collisions with heavy equipment.
The investigation also found that targets for the workers are so strict, that they "have to use plastic bottles to urinate in instead of going to the toilet" and "pregnant women have been forced to stand for hours on end."
Mick Rix, GMB national officer said: “GMB is staging a protest at Amazon’s Newport site on Black Friday.
“The conditions our members work under at various Amazon sites are appalling.
“Workers are breaking bones, being knocked unconscious and being taken away in ambulances.
“Amazon has spent a fortune on fluffy adverts saying what a great place it is to work. Why not spend the money making their warehouses less dangerous places to work?"
“Amazon workers want Jeff Bezos (Amazon's chief executive officer) to know they are people – not robots.
“It’s about time Mr Bezos showed empathy with the very people that have helped build his vast empire and make sure it is not a Black Friday for Amazon workers.”
A spokeswoman for Amazon said: “Self-interested critics have a vested interest in spreading misinformation about Amazon but the facts tell a different story.
"The truth is that Amazon already offers industry-leading pay, comprehensive benefits, as well as a safe, modern work environment.
“These groups are conjuring misinformation to work in their favour, when in fact we already offer the things they claim to be fighting for. You don't have to take our word for it – or theirs.
"Come and see for yourself by registering for a tour at one of our fulfilment centres.”
