The monotonous work leads to employees getting injuries to hands, wrists and backs. Several have had to operate on their hands. In addition, corrosive chemicals are handled in the work, often without the right protective equipment.
The employees also receive bonuses if they reach a certain amount during sorting. This means that they often work overtime, according to the trade union and employer.
The facility is ISO-certified and management describes the work environment as good. Despite this, the working conditions would never be accepted by the Work Environment Authority in Sweden, according to an expert that HD and Sydsvenskan have spoken with.
From January 1, it is prohibited to throw away old textiles in the trash can. This means that both households and businesses must submit textile waste, from for example clothes, to the recycling center.
At the facility in Lithuania, 490 people work, according to HD and Sydsvenskan.
