Cleaning chemical reaction

[lindaolde]

Another cleaning chemical reaction!

Only been back at work for 2weeks following a severe viral asthma attack and unfortunately have reacted to the ward cleaning products again. I’ve had to quit my job and I’m working my notice. My nurse manager knows how bad my asthma is, and done nothing positive to help me apart from allowing me to work nights. However the cleaner starts cleaning whilst I’m still on duty ( hence my attack) . My lungs are hyper sensitive since being ill!

I guess my question is do I go off sick for the rest of my notice period or try to work. I don’t want to leave on a bad note, but I don’t want to jepodise my new job, making my self really ill again?

[Poobah]

What a difficult situation. One would think that understanding would be plentiful in a hospital, obviously not. Under the Equality Act 2010 you're entitled to reasonable adjustments at work and I'm guessing that the night duties were the adjustment that was supposed to be resolution. I would have said that changing the time of cleaning your workplace would have been a better option and one that is still available.

In your place I would put the choice on the manager, in that you can work out your notice as long as cleaning doesn't take place during your shift. Otherwise you have no option but to remove yourself from the hazard that is making you ill for the rest of your notice. I would also point out that you could have stayed if this matter had been resolved effectively, which is the employer's responsibility.

Be bold and if necessary talk to your rep at RCN.

Finally, as a large employer, the NHS should, and could, also have sought out a role that protected you from asthma triggers in order to avoid you leaving their employment. Failing to take reasonable steps to ensure your safety at work which leads to your employment terminating can be considered as constructive dismissal. But that's for you and your union rep to discuss.

All the best.

[Calmcat]

My instinct says put your health first. Your new job should understand the reason behind your choice.

[revcathfrog]

Can you speak with HR and ask them to move you to outpatients or community. I too had allergic reactions to corlclean they use in hospital. I am fortunate as got a job a chaplain. They have responsibility to move you. So worth asking. Get union involved too.