WORKINGTON'S MP and the leader of Allerdale council have said waste contractors have not been following social-distancing guidelines.

But FCC, who will terminate the service of behalf of the local authority on April 6, rejected the claims.

From that date, Allerdale will bring the service in-house.

Councillor Mike Johnson said: "The welfare of our staff is of paramount importance, especially during the COVID- 19 pandemic. It has been brought to the council’s attention that one of our contractors was flouting the guidelines.

"I am pleased that Allerdale Borough Council has a plan to implement for refuse workers on April 6. I am keen to ensure that as many front line council services as possible remain throughout this difficult period. Ways in which we can support and protect our staff will be under constant review."

Mr Jenkinson said: "This issue had been raised with me by a number of bin men. Following correspondence with Allerdale Borough Council, a risk assessment has been put into place to ensure that Government guidelines for those who cannot do their job from home is adhered to. Refuse collections are a vital frontline service and I want those who carry out the role to be protected amid this pandemic."

FCC said safe distancing was being respected despite lack of clarity around the policy.

A company spokesman said: "We refute the claims made by MP for Workington, Mark Jenkinson and acting leader of Allerdale Borough Council, Mike Johnson at this time and we are disappointed that they have decided to make such a political statement at a time of national emergency.

"We would be happy to allay any concerns Mr Jenkinson or Mr Johnson have and would invite them to contact us directly with details of the issues they speak of.

"FCC Environment would like to state for the record that it has enjoyed working with the residents of Allerdale and wishes them well in the future."

The spokesman added: "FCC Environment is working in close collaboration with the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs as well as the Environment Agency as there remains a lack of clarity around Social Distancing and the 2m rule when it comes to front line NHS workers as well as Key Workers such as ours who have to work in close proximity in order to carry out their vital roles. This includes our crews supporting your waste and recycling collection services as it does across many other councils up and down the country.

"However, despite the lack of clarity around policy, FCC Environment would like to assure all residents that all necessary and practical steps have been and are being taken in relation Social Distancing and safe working practices. All staff have the appropriate access to ppe, hand sanitisers and/or soap and water to ensure they can follow the guidance on regularly washing their hands. All staff are advised to self-isolate if they feel in any way they are showing symptoms of the virus thus not putting their colleagues at risk and FCC are paying full sick pay to anyone who needs to do this. All vehicles cabs are cleansed every day."