Environmental services workers at the Royal Hobart Hospital walked off the job for an hour today, demanding fair pay for training new staff.
The cleaners have been fighting for more than six months to receive proper compensation when required to train and orientate new employees, according to their union.
Hospital management has refused their request, offering what union officials called an “insulting” proposal.
The union says the government’s offer dismisses training duties as “buddying” and denies workers a mixed functions allowance.
“Calling this ‘buddying’ is a disgraceful attempt to downplay the responsibility workers take on when they train new staff,” HACSU state secretary Robbie Moore said.
“This isn’t about showing someone where the mop is. It’s about ensuring new workers understand infection control, safety procedures and the standards that keep patients and staff safe.”
Moore said the training required skill and responsibility that deserved proper compensation.
He said cleaning staff played a crucial role in hospital safety and hygiene, particularly following increased focus on infection control since the pandemic.
“The government is trying to get this work done on the cheap and these workers are done being exploited,” he said.
The union says cleaners have implemented a complete ban on all training activities until the government recognises the work’s value and pays the appropriate allowance.
Deputy Premier Guy Barnett said there is “always more to do” when it comes to improving the state’s health system.
“And that’s why we’re stepping up and have provided that record funding of $10 million a day,” he said.
