The European Transport Workers’ Federation (ETF) has taken a step in advocating for the safety and well-being of civil aviation workers with the launch of its “Get Me Home Safely Campaign” for the Aviation sector. A video on the safety of aviation workers was unveiled during a joint webinar with the Airport Regions Council (ARC), shedding light on the often-overlooked issue of safe commuting for airport employees, especially women. In the next weeks, new videos will be released.
Airports around the world operate round the clock, and countless workers, including air crew, ground handlers, and security staff, frequently begin or end their shifts during the late hours. Unfortunately, the challenges they face in terms of safe commuting to and from work have been a long-standing concern, with little attention paid to their unique circumstances.
One particular aspect of this issue that deserves special consideration is its impact on women aviation workers. For them, safe nighttime commuting can be especially daunting, raising concerns about their well-being and security. The ETF recognizes that safe commuting can’t be a luxury, but a fundamental right that every aviation worker should enjoy.
To address these challenges, the ETF is calling for a collaborative effort involving employers, local and regional authorities, and trade unions. By working together, they can develop strategies and implement measures to guarantee safe commuting for all aviation workers.
Importantly, the International Labour Organization (ILO) Convention 190, which addresses the elimination of violence and harassment in the world of work, emphasizes the employer’s obligation to ensure a safe and violence-free workplace, including safe commuting for employees.
As part of the campaign launch, the ETF has released a compelling video aimed at raising awareness about the specific challenges faced by women in the aviation industry. This video serves as a powerful tool to highlight the need for action and change.
In addition to the video, the joint ETF-ARC webinar showcased practical examples of best practices that can and should be adopted to improve the commuting conditions of aviation workers. These examples demonstrate that with concerted efforts and a commitment to change, the aviation industry can ensure that all its employees can go to work and return home safely.
The “Get Me Home Safely Campaign” is a vital step toward addressing an often-neglected aspect of aviation work, and the ETF is determined to champion the cause of safe commuting for all civil aviation workers. Through collaboration and awareness-raising initiatives like this campaign, the ETF aims to make a lasting difference in the lives of those who keep our aviation industry soaring.
