Offshore wind firms back Government charter to strengthen workers’ rights

More than 30 offshore wind supply chain companies have signed up to a new charter aimed at improving workers’ rights and strengthening health and safety standards across the sector.

The Offshore Wind Fair Work Charter, launched by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, has been backed by 37 companies and six trade unions, including the Trades Union Congress (TUC), GMB Union, Prospect Union, UNISON and RMT.

Under the agreement, unions will receive greater access to workplaces and more opportunities to engage directly with workers.

The charter also includes commitments around workplace standards, health and safety, apprenticeships and more inclusive working environments.

The Government said the initiative could support greater trade union recognition across the growing offshore wind sector and help ensure the transition to clean energy creates high-quality jobs.

Ed Miliband, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, said: “The government has always been clear that the workers who power the nation deserve power in their workplace too.

“That is why we welcome this commitment from major offshore wind manufacturers and trade unions, who represent thousands of workers up and down the country, in bringing stronger working conditions and a greater, independent worker voice into the offshore wind industry.”

Miliband added: “As we continue to go further and faster in delivering the clean power mission in the wake of the war in Iran, we are clear that building a more secure and stable energy system must – and will – go hand in hand with stronger workers’ rights.”