Australia Post Recalls New Polo Shirts Amid Sunburn Concerns
Australia Post has instructed its posties to stop wearing newly issued polo shirts following reports that employees are experiencing sunburn while on duty.
The company emphasized that the safety of its team members is its highest priority and that employees are not expected to wear unsafe items.
The Communication Workers Union (CWU) reported that members questioned the SPF rating of the high-visibility polo shirts. Some employees also noted that tattoos and undergarments were visible through the fabric.
The new uniform rollout, comprising approximately 80 items, commenced earlier this year after a trial period last year.
Immediate Action and Testing Underway
Australia Post has directed employees to utilize alternative clothing options, including their previous uniforms, while the new polo shirt fabric undergoes testing. A company spokesperson stated that the fabric would be tested for its SPF50 rating, a component of the approved uniform design.
Australia Post has engaged the Australian Radiation Protection & Nuclear Safety Agency (ARPANSA) to conduct this testing and has contacted the manufacturer for additional details.
Union Advises on Sun-Safe Alternatives
The CWU has advised employees in outdoor roles to revert to their old uniforms where possible, or to wear other suitable sun-safe clothing until the review is concluded. These arrangements have been agreed upon at a national level.
Employee Numbers
Australia Post employs around 60,000 individuals, with approximately 10,000 working as posties.