Kirkintilloch’s finest
As part of a new series of blogs from across the business, we’ll be bringing you stories from our amazing people on how things have changed during the ongoing crisis.
Today, we hear from delivery office manager Andrew Mullen and his brilliant team at Kirkintilloch Delivery Office.
‘On Sunday 22 March, I spoke with my mother in-law, who is a home-carer for the local council and learned of an isolation case that occurred as a result of them sharing vehicles doing their care rounds. I realised then that I had to change my way of working to protect both my team and their families.
‘I entered the office to concerned staff, who over that weekend, had learned of a positive case locally. I made the decision then and there to implement one OPG per van to minimise the risk of the virus being spread. I also made it very clear among the team that two-metre social distancing was imperative, and we made sure that wherever possible, there were two yorks between people.
‘We then reduced OPG’s at IPS, to ensure the correct distancing measures were maintained. I told everyone that we would attempt the delivery of one duty, the partner duty – with the delivery of Special Deliveries and Tracked) and then alternate each day, so we were turning over deliveries. These two decisions were very much welcomed within the team and by my operations manager. We also printed briefs and assured everyone that their safety was our priority. That night, the official messaging around the one man per van rule and social distancing was sent to everyone in the business.
‘Last week, I was given the name of a local supplier of hand sanitiser from one of my team. We bought 50 bottles, briefed everyone on the importance of regularly washing their hands with soap and water indoors, and provided all delivery colleagues with sanitiser. Everyone was also given nitrile gloves.
‘We also staggered our start times, which enabled non-drivers to meet the drivers at their first delivery points as per the one man per van rule. The team were flexible to start later (when the vehicles returned) to attempt more deliveries. Lightweight trolleys are now in use for anyone near the office to ensure we continue to work safely. In addition, we have staggered our breaks and when in the canteen, we ensure we remain two metres apart from each other.
‘I have a duty of care for all my staff and their families in that they report for work and return home safely. We are key workers for the public and we are doing everything we can for customers with pride at Kirkintilloch Delivery Office.’
OPG Kenneth McAllister said: ‘I think Royal Mail’s initial approach to the pandemic could have been quicker. Being in a high-risk group, I for one, am grateful for the safety protocols Andy implemented ahead of the curve. Removing shared vans and spreading the workload will undoubtedly save lives.’
OPG Derek Morrison said: ‘The management team have been very approachable allowing colleagues to come forward with any ideas they have. We’re using common sense and working together.’
