FNV: heavy workload for meat inspectors in slaughter­houses

At some facilities, 650 to 675 pig carcasses pass along the inspection line each hour. FNV says that pace puts NVWA meat inspectors under pressure. The union also points to understaffing and insufficient rest. According to FNV, sick leave at some slaughterhouses reaches 20 or even 30 percent. The union warns that staff absences could put food safety at risk.

Pressure on the slaughter line

The inspectors check every animal for abnormalities and possible signs of disease. According to FNV, they turn each carcass while the line keeps moving. Those inspections must be carried out with great care. The union says employees sometimes work ten-hour days. They also have little opportunity to take breaks.

According to FNV, the NVWA routinely schedules only the minimum number of staff. If a colleague calls in sick, others may have to work harder or longer. FNV says there are no concrete, enforceable agreements on line speed, staffing and workload.

Internal NVWA research also points to an excessive workload, according to FNV. Svenja de Groot, an FNV Overheid official, says: ‘This is not the kind of work where you can simply work harder or skip an inspection.’

More flexibility in scheduling

FNV has repeatedly raised these problems with the NVWA. The union has yet to see sufficient improvement. FNV demands schedules that prevent irregular working hours and prolonged overtime. It also wants the NVWA to stop scheduling staff so tightly. This would help colleagues cover absences and additional work.

FNV also says the NVWA must honor its existing agreements. The union calls for measures to ensure a safe and healthy workplace.

Fnv.nl