An investigation by UK general trade union GMB has revealed that more than 600 serious injuries or near misses were reported from Amazon warehouses in the past three years.
The union has obtained the statistics through Freedom of Information Act requests it submitted to local authorities.
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Between 2016/17 and 2018/19, 622 reports were made to the Health and Safety Executive (HSE).
The injuries range from fractured hand, head and back injuries to intervertebral disc prolapse and internal bruising.
An investigation into one of the accidents found ‘the main root cause of this incident was failing to provide a safe working environment.’
Generally, workplace injuries are reported to HSE only if the accident stops someone from doing their duties for at least a week.
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By GlobalDataGMB national officer Mick Rix said: “Amazon are spending millions on PR campaigns trying to persuade people its warehouses are great places to work. But the facts are there for all to see things are getting worse.
“Hundreds of stricken Amazon workers are needing urgent medical attention. Conditions are hellish.
“We’ve tried over and over again to get Amazon to talk to use to try and improve safety for workers. But enough is enough, it’s now time for a full parliamentary inquiry.”
The allegation was, however, defended by the e-commerce retailer.
An Amazon spokesman was quoted by the BBC as saying: “Amazon is a safe place to work. Yet again, our critics seem determined to paint a false picture of what it’s like to work for Amazon. They repeat the same sensationalised allegations time and time again.
“Our doors are open to the public, to politicians, and indeed to anyone who truly wants to see the modern, innovate and, most importantly, safe environment we provide to our people.”
