Injuries to Amazon workers spike in the build-up to key sales dates like Prime Day, according to research from GMB.

An analysis of ambulance call outs to Amazon warehouses reveals an increase before Black Friday, Christmas, and Prime Day, which is today.

The trade union said that investigations into working conditions at Amazon have revealed workers being knocked unconscious, breaking bones, having to call ambulances due to chest pains and breathing problems, and pregnant workers being forced to stand for hours on end.

To coincide with Prime Day GMB has today launched a digital hub for its hundreds of Amazon members to report incidents and safety concerns.

“We know Amazon fulfilment centres are dangerous, stressful places to work at the best of times,” said Mick Rix, GMB national officer. “In the run up to key sales events like Prime Day the inhumanity of working conditions at Amazon warehouses goes into overdrive."

Rix added: “Workers are expected to operate like robots gone haywire, picking and packing at a furious rate to meet completely unrealistic targets. It’s time for the richest company in the world to invest in safety, sit down with GMB and make sure staff work in a safe environment.”

Retail Systems has reached out to Amazon for comment.

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