THE Scottish road works commissioner has backed calls to stamp out the abuse of road workers.
It comes following a survey of Scotland’s trunk road maintenance companies, which revealed one in four roadworkers have suffered mental health issues following verbal or physical abuse.
As a result of the findings, the Scottish Government has backed calls for the abuse to be tackled, with BEAR Scotland adding that it will continue to invest in body cams to ensure a zero-tolerance approach can be taken.
Under the Transport (Scotland) Act 2005, the post of a commissioner was established to improve the planning, co-ordination and quality of road works throughout the country. The commissioner monitors performance and promotes good practice across both utility firms and road authorities.
Kevin Hamilton took up the post late last year. Commenting on the campaign, he said, “I wholeheartedly support this campaign to eradicate the abuse of staff working on our roads. Road work staff undertake essential works to provide, improve and maintain infrastructure that we all depend on. Like everyone else, they should not have to accept abuse or threats in the workplace and have a right to be treated with respect and return home safely from their work.
“I would encourage all organisations involved in road works to adopt a zero tolerance approach to road worker abuse and to have appropriate measures in place to support staff and report issues to the appropriate authorities.”
