Trade unions have warned the French energy giant EDF that urgent action is needed to tackle a rat infestation at the construction site for the Hinkley Point C nuclear reactor in Somerset, raising concerns over the health of workers.
The Unite and GMB unions are understood to have raised the issue with the developer after staff described the rodents as being "everywhere." A source on the site told the Observer: "They're all over. You see them just sat there, looking at you. It is worse near the canteens, where I guess it started. But they are everywhere now." A second source confirmed the unions had broached the matter, describing the number of rats as "quite grim." The source added that the proliferation of rubbish and poorly cleaned canteens had made the problem worse over time.
The vermin problem comes as the workforce at Hinkley Point is set to expand significantly, with around 3,000 more jobs expected to be created over the next 18 months. At its peak, about 15,000 people are expected to work on the project, which will eventually power 6 million British homes and supply 7% of UK electricity. However, EDF is under pressure to deliver the plant by the early 2030s after years of delays and spiralling costs have saddled the company with growing debts. Workers have claimed that these financial pressures have had a damaging impact on their working conditions and pay.
The latest concerns follow a series of industrial disputes at the site. In November, hundreds of electricians, pipe fitters and welders downed tools in a row over security access, claiming that only five fingerprint scanners were provided for the 13,000 workers on site. EDF denied the claim. Separately, a small number of workers represented by the Prospect union downed tools twice late last year over pay, and the union has also raised concerns about the use of cheap labour on the project. EDF said that while some suppliers employ people from overseas, it expects all workers to be treated fairly and consistently.
EDF's financial difficulties have been compounded by issues with its investment partners. The company warned last year that the final cost of the project could soar by a third. Its Chinese partner, CGN, which agreed to finance 33.5% of the original costs, has refused to make further cash injections after the UK government blocked its involvement in EDF's planned Sizewell C nuclear project over national security concerns. EDF is now struggling to find new investors to help complete the work.
A spokesperson for Hinkley Point C said: "As is common across all large construction sites, there will be occasions when the presence of vermin is noted. A specialist company has carried out a survey and measures are in place to address the issue. We are committed to working alongside our trades union partners to provide the best environment for all of our workers."
