Trade union FNV demands safer working conditions at Schiphol Airport

The union FNV wants work at Schiphol Airport to become fairer, healthier, and safer. The union is calling on Schiphol, the national government, and aviation companies to protect employees from aircraft exhaust, pay higher wages, and enforce strict safety requirements.

According to FNV, the measures are needed to address long-standing problems such as low wages, excessive workloads, unsafe conditions, and insecure employment.

FNV campaign leader Jaap de Bie says the issues are far from resolved. For example, Schiphol employees are still inhaling carcinogenic exhaust fumes, and speed often takes priority over safe working practices, which is dangerous.

De Bie also stated that many workers are not earning enough money to make ends meet. Employees at Schiphol make sure everything runs smoothly every day. But they are poorly rewarded for it and often get sick from the work they do,” De Bie said.

Schiphol has stated that it is working “hard” on making the airport a good, healthy, and safe workplace for their employees. “In the past, their work did not always receive the attention it deserved, but we have definitely turned that around. We have already achieved a lot, and we realize we are not there yet.”

According to Schiphol, this includes clear work agreements with baggage handlers, improved break rooms, and lifting aids for luggage. “Complex changes cannot be implemented overnight,” the airport added.