Subcontracted visitor service workers at the Sagrada Família in Barcelona held a strike on Wednesday 29 July, organised by the SUT union, over what they describe as extreme working and weather conditions. The workers are employed by Audioguiarte SL, and the basilica said visitors could expect its doors to remain open without a significant impact from the stoppage.

The union alleges that staff work shifts of up to 11 hours while standing, without being able to sit down. It said some workers periodically need medical attention for heatstroke, dizziness and dehydration during the summer peak.

The SUT union said the Sagrada Família must provide the “necessary means” to guarantee the safety of all workers, including by ensuring subcontractors comply with occupational risk-prevention measures.

Workers call for shade, water and 30-minute rotations

The union said work accidents increase by 17% during heatwaves, and alleged that workers face abuses during the busiest summer days. It has called for measures covering outdoor and indoor visitor-service posts.

  • Heat-suitable personal protective equipment and clothing.
  • Additional parasols and awnings at exposed positions, more powerful hand fans and approved sunglasses.
  • Stools, easy access to water and adequate air conditioning in the basilica’s nave and museum.
  • More staff at different positions, 30-minute rotations and a paid lunch break.

Sagrada Família says safety measures are in place

The Sagrada Família said the health and safety of its own employees and external staff are being protected through measures taken in line with its occupational risk-prevention service.

The basilica said it adapts its facilities to the needs of each season and that the strike would not have a significant effect on opening its doors to visitors.

Reported by Source Text Link, Catalan News, vilaweb.cat, beteve.cat, DiariTots21, ACN, sindicatosut.org, sagradafamilia.org, Anna Bellorbí, Exa, María Bosque Senero, eb.unican.es, diariosocialista.net, Emilio Sánchez Hidalgo, uso.es, Selina Bárcena, catalannews.com.