Investigation launched into worker safety during storms
The Labour Inspectorate has formally required delivery platforms Glovo, Amazon and Uber Eats to submit their safety protocols for delivery workers during episodes of adverse weather, including heavy rain. The move, confirmed on Monday 2nd November 2026, follows an ex officio investigation opened by the body, which operates under the authority of the Generalitat. This investigation is separate from an earlier case initiated at the request of the Comissions Obreres (CCOO) union, which filed a formal complaint against Uber Eats for allegedly keeping riders on the streets during a severe weather alert on 6th October 2026. The union accused the company and its subcontractors of failing to suspend deliveries during a red and orange weather alert, potentially endangering workers.
Companies given deadline to comply
Under Catalan labour law, delivery platforms are required to have formal protocols in place to protect workers during extreme weather. The three companies must submit these documents to the Labour Department by the end of November 2026. Failure to do so could result in the government mandating the creation of such protocols and opening a sanctioning procedure. Both Glovo and Uber Eats have stated they comply with existing regulations. Amazon clarified that it does not operate its own delivery fleet but relies on subcontracted companies, though it confirmed having mechanisms to respond to severe weather alerts.
We all have to adapt to climate change, also in the labour field, regarding schedules and ways of working.
Salvador Illa, President of the Generalitat, described the probe as an ex officio investigation, emphasising the need for workplaces to adapt to changing climate conditions. Speaking to Cadena Ser, Illa said: "We must adapt quickly and protect workers and adapt working hours" to the new meteorological reality.
Broader push for climate-resilient work practices
Illa highlighted that during recent storms in Catalonia, some distribution companies had proactively adjusted operations, such as advancing supermarket closing times, which he called "a good practice." The Labour Inspectorate’s action forms part of a wider effort to ensure worker safety in increasingly frequent extreme weather events. The Authority for Competition (ACCO) has previously published studies on the food delivery sector, underscoring its significance in Catalonia and the high market concentration among a few platforms. The current investigation reflects growing scrutiny of working conditions in this rapidly expanding industry.
Sources: Ara.
