Baggage handling firms to face fine for not using lifting gear

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Six baggage handling firms working at Schiphol are risking fines totalling up to €200,000 for every month they do not use lifting equipment, sources have told broadcaster NOS.

Labour inspection officials had told the firms in March to use the equipment to ensure the physical well-being and safety of their workers.

Subsequent checks showed that not all companies had done so and that where equipment was in place, it was not being used.

The practice came to light after an investigation by NOS and Nieuwsuur in 2022 which showed that half of all baggage handlers working at Schiphol airport were at risk of developing debilitating physical problems if current working practices continued.

It then also became apparent that inspectors had not checked up on working conditions at the airport at any time in the last 12 years.

The inspectorate said the highest fine individual firms would face is €65,000.

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