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A SAFER WORKPLACE
Unite rep Iulian Firea works at a meat processing factory for the 2 Sisters Food Group (2SFG) in West Bromwich and became a Unite health and safety rep over six years ago, writes Keith Hatch.
Iulian was first elected in 2019 and attended all the Unite education courses.
He said, “The training that Unite gives reps is great. After I did the health and safety level 1A course, the first thing I did when I got back to the workplace was focus on a health and safety committee.
“Like many reps on the course, this was something that wasn’t happening in my workplace, so I grabbed the Brown Book and went straight to my employer and told them that we needed to set up a health and safety committee – with Unite members sitting on it.”
As many reps will know, the Brown Book, or the Safety representatives and safety committees regulations 1977 (as amended)’ to give the regs their full title, give appointed trade union reps the right to request an employer establishes a safety committee, something they must do.
Iulian soon got the workplace health and safety committee set up, and it currently has more union representation, from different departments across the workplace, than employers. Having union involvement helps workers have a voice in safety issues and inspires a culture of safety.
Iulian Firea – Unite Education is important for reps
Since starting as a rep, Iulian has realised how good the training from Unite Education is and gave an example of how it compares to courses from other providers.
10 uniteLANDWORKER Summer 2026
Iulian explained, “I was lucky enough in 2022 to be invited to attend training that 2SFG were providing for management. I was happy to take part in it - but it was very slim and not that detailed.
“Our courses were way above anything that management is provided with, and as such Unite reps have a greater knowledge of many of the issues we come across.”
One of the issues that has arisen is that of HAVS (hand/arm vibration syndrome), Carpal tunnel syndrome and other musculoskeletal disorders that can affect many of the workers on processing floors.
Iulian is now using his new skills and knowledge, to help lower the risk of members developing these work-related health issues.
• See pages 18 and 19 for more on HAVS
FIND OUT MORE
Become a Unite workplace health and safety rep too. Talk to your branch and regional education department to find out about the training. See page 51 for your nearest office’s address.
Mark Thomas
Getty Images
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