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HAPPENING NOW: ABS Employees Ordered Outside Workplace Amid Ongoing Health and Safety Concerns

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ATLU boss says a ‘lot of things have to be changed’ inside building before ABS workers return to full duties
Employees of the Antigua and Barbuda Broadcasting Services (ABS) gathered outside the state-owned media house.

Employees of the Antigua and Barbuda Broadcasting Services (ABS) are currently gathered outside the state-owned media house after being advised not to remain inside the building due to concerns about working conditions.

Staff exited the premises on Monday and are currently assembled outside the compound as issues relating to the facility’s environment came to the forefront. The move follows mounting complaints about the state of the building, including reports of mold, leaking pipes, inadequate restroom facilities, and other unsanitary conditions.

The Antigua Trades and Labour Union (AT&LU), which represents the workers, is understood to be involved in addressing the situation. Union representatives were observed engaging in discussions while employees remained outside.

Workers have long raised concerns about the condition of the facility, arguing that the environment may present health and safety risks. Monday’s development appears to mark a significant escalation in those concerns.

It remains unclear how long staff will continue to stay outside the building or what corrective measures may be implemented in the short term.

Shermain Bique-Charles

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Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (4)

  • Donna March 2, 2026, 9:28 PM

    The health department needs to conduct random inspections of all facilities in Antigua and Barbuda. Many workplaces are at high-risk for human health. The management and owner of these buildings do not take preventive measures/maintenance seriously. Aside from leaking pipes, many of these air conditioning units also contribute to mold in the building. Mold needs moisture to grow, and not carrying out regular maintenance on the air conditioning units, such as cleaning them quarterly. The coil, filters, and the ductwork breathe mold if not cleaned regularly. For example, remove the housing from the air conditioning units in your office, and you will see the black mold buildup inside.

  • Apex Jones March 2, 2026, 6:02 PM

    Could not have said this better. Thank you

  • Antigua Surf March 2, 2026, 5:24 PM

    This is really concerning. Staff shouldn’t have to choose between their jobs and their health. Mold, leaking pipes, and unsanitary conditions are serious workplace hazards. I hope the management and government take this seriously. Employees have a right to a safe and clean working environment.

  • Hadassah March 2, 2026, 5:23 PM

    “The state-owned media house”…. This in itself raises concerns. More frank this is not the first building occupied by the government to have health risk conditions…. Who’s responsible for the media?

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