Edinburgh Trams staff back strike action over lack of toilet breaks

Workers on Edinburgh's tram network have backed strike action in a dispute over a lack of toilet breaks.

The Unite union said late-running services mean drivers are unable to take a break ahead of their next departure, which has led to health issues among members.

Unite said 160 staff including drivers, ticket assistants and controllers could strike after a ballot was backed by more than 90% of its members.

Edinburgh Trams has been approached for comment.

Unite general secretary Sharon Graham said members had "emphatically" backed strike action to "tackle head-on the unacceptable health and safety situation they face".

She said: "They should not be in this situation because Edinburgh Trams should be implementing measures to ensure our members get their comfort breaks.

"We will back our tram membership all the way in the fight for decent workplace conditions."

The union claims there is a shortfall of five to six minutes on tram routes between Edinburgh Airport and Newhaven, which means drivers are often forced to make up the time.

'One more chance'

Each round trip on the route takes on average of two hours. A new tram timetable has added four minutes to each run, and delays to a new signalling system have contributed to increased delays.

According to the union, this means tram workers often go up to five hours without hydration or toilet breaks.

Lyn Turner, an industrial officer at the union, added: "Edinburgh's tram workers are being forced into taking strike action.

"This is mismanagement plain and simple, and it is having unacceptable consequences for our members.

"Unite wants to resolve this through negotiation but we are running out of track before strike action takes place. If this happens, then Edinburgh Trams will be solely to blame for any disruption. Management has one more chance."