Yahoo News Tube drivers set to strike because of concerns over noise levels on the tracks
Tube drivers in London are set to strike over concerns at the levels of noise on the tracks.
Drivers on parts of the London Underground network will launch the campaign of industrial action after complaining about noise, with 95% of members of the RMT (Rail, Maritime and Transport) union on the Jubilee, Central, Northern and Victoria Lines voting in favour of taking action.
The action on sections of the lines, set to start on October 10, will include driving at an “appropriate reduced speed to mitigate the creation of excessive noise and to alleviate the distraction, discomfort and anxiety caused in the affected areas”, the RMT said.
The RMT said some improvements had been made since it raised the issue, but progress had been slow.
General secretary Mick Cash said: “It is appalling that RMT driver members have had to resort to a programme of industrial action in order to force London Underground to take the issue of excessive track noise seriously.”
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He added: “It should never have come to this and the blame lies solely with the employer and their failure to protect the workforce.
“This is an issue that impacts not only on our members but on the travelling public as well and the union is absolutely determined to ensure that the company don’t drag their feet for a moment longer.”
A Transport for London spokesman said: “We have met with the RMT on a number of occasions on the plans we have to tackle Tube noise and look forward to continuing to work with them to find a resolution.
“The health and safety of our staff and customers is our first priority and we have already agreed to provide a broader range of ear protection to drivers who wish to use it alongside plans for longer-term solutions to this complex issue.”
