An Amazon warehouse in the United Kingdom is facing a tuberculosis (TB) outbreak, leading workers to consider a walkout following multiple confirmed cases of the disease. The GMB union has demanded the immediate closure of Amazon’s Coventry site, alleging that the online retailer has jeopardized staff safety by exposing them to a serious infectious disease. The warehouse, employing approximately 2,000 workers with around 700 being GMB members, has been at the center of the controversy.
Last September, Amazon disclosed that 10 individuals at the facility had tested positive for non-contagious TB. Subsequent assessments revealed no additional cases, enabling operations to continue as usual. A spokesperson mentioned the implementation of a “screening program” as a precautionary measure in response to the situation.
Following guidance from the NHS and UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), potentially affected employees were promptly informed about the circumstances. The company emphasized adherence to safety protocols and highlighted the importance of responsible communication in matters pertaining to public health.
The GMB union is urging Amazon to place its employees on medical leave with full pay until effective infection control measures are in place to halt the spread of TB. GMB Senior Organiser Amanda Gearing emphasized the necessity for immediate and resolute action, cautioning that failure to act could lead to a widespread TB outbreak in Coventry, on a scale not witnessed in decades.