Action needed on air quality

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A recent exposé in the Guardian has reaffirmed the serious problems with air quality on the Tube.

In particular, managers have been taking a reckless approach to the disposal of hazardous waste, including asbestos.

Air quality is an issue we've been agitating around for years. Back in 2024, we reported on a study showing that staff working in areas with higher concentrations of particulate matter had higher instances of sickness absence. More recently, another study has revealed significantly increased mortality rates amongst Tube workers, including a 73% higher mortality risk from respiratory conditions.

The employer must act to improve worker and passenger safety. This means improved PPE, infrastructural upgrades to improve ventilation, and rigorous enforcement of safety standards around the disposal of hazardous waste.