Being forced to train for something i dont want to do

*Jane*

I have worked for a large supermarket for the past 15 years. I stack shelves in a supermarket i have done this job since working there.
Two people who unload the wagons are on long term sick so we have been told that we all have to be trained to unload the wagons,
I really dont want to do this can they sack me for refusing.
you have to use a lift to get to the loading bay then bring the goods back down in the lift, this lift breaks down at least once a week and it can take up to 4 hours for someone to come out to fix it and get you out of the lift, i really dont want to be stuck in a lift all that time.
I have heard that you should not unload wagons when you are alone not sure if this is true but i would have to work alone.
We are all women and one lady is 60 surely they cant do this.

Emmzi

so you are in favour of gender and age discrimination?

I would be amazed if your contract didn't have a clause about "other reasonable duties", which this seems to be.

What did the manager say when you asked about safety training, lone working and safe systems of work, and how long you would be doing this for?

If it's not you, then presumabley it is someone else, yes? How would you pick who it was?

bobajob_1966

I can only imagine how refusing to do something because you *might* get stuck will go down!

I might get hit by a bus tomorrow ... Day off anyone?

DVardysShadow

bobajob_1966 wrote: »

I can only imagine how refusing to do something because you *might* get stuck will go down!

I might get hit by a bus tomorrow ... Day off anyone?

Although it seems to be a cert that it will happen reasonably quickly. I would say that OP should wait until it happens and raise it as a H&S issue. And don't forget to claim the overtime.

getmore4less

Leave a good book(and torch if needed) in the lift.

Send the lift up/down on it's own and walk the stairs.

lynzpower

Does sound like OP is anxious about the task:

Do you have have any ongoing health needs that employer knows about? Eg if there is a genuine health need or reason why you dont want to do the task?

Do you not feel that sufficient training is provided? This may quell the anxiety?

What is dangerous about the task? Again safe system of work, good training, not working alone may be options.

donnajunkie

i thought it was normal for supermarket staff to be trained in other areas incase they need cover. i know for example in the supermarket where a friend of mine works they all have to be trained to work on the til even if that is not what they normally do.

RuthnJasper

Jane - I do sympathise with you, as it does seem quite harsh - but I think Emmzi is right and it would be covered by "other reasonable duties". If it means lifting heavier things than normal, then perhaps you might have a reasonable point about the lone-working aspect.

But it might not be so bad - a nice little diversion from stacking shelves, and you'd be being paid the same, I daresay.

Getmore's idea about the book and the torch is also good! You COULD get paid for reading Mills and Boon by torchlight!

Hope all turns out well. Best wishes. xx

bobajob_1966

DVardysShadow wrote: »

Although it seems to be a cert that it will happen reasonably quickly. I would say that OP should wait until it happens and raise it as a H&S issue. And don't forget to claim the overtime.

Absolutely - if it happens, then they need to raise the issue. But it has not happened to her, has it? Using my example, people get run over everyday - doesn't mean we all stop crossing the road.

*Jane*

Ok thanks everyone i got my answer they can make us do it.
The reason i am unhappy is it is a very physical job and i know i will struggle with it, you have to load all the empty rollers and boards onto the wagon as well as using a manual pallet truck and i dont think i will be able to pull the boards that have pop , beer etc
The health and safety at my work is a joke.
I now know were i stand and when the time comes will have to look for a career move

Emmzi

as opposed to having a discussion? bit extreme I'd say.