Staff at the Antigua and Barbuda Broadcasting Services (ABS) were instructed to remain off the job — told to report to work, clock in, and then return home — until further notice, following serious health and safety concerns at the state-owned media house.

The directive came from the Antigua Trades and Labour Union (AT&LU) after a Shop Steward contacted the union on Monday to report worsening conditions inside the building, including visible mold and a strong, foul odor.

Sources indicate that the situation escalated after the facility reportedly flooded over the weekend, compounding existing issues and intensifying concerns about possible contamination and health risks to employees.

ABS staff sent home over health and safety concerns at building

Union representatives conducted a walkthrough of the premises and, after observing the conditions firsthand, ordered that an air quality test be carried out to determine whether the environment is safe for staff occupancy.

The extraordinary measure — requiring employees to clock in only to immediately leave — has effectively disrupted normal operations and underscores the gravity of the concerns raised.

Meetings between union officials and ABS management are expected to take place on Tuesday as efforts begin to address the deteriorating workplace conditions. The matter is also slated for discussion at Cabinet on Wednesday, signaling potential government intervention at the highest level.

For now, staff remain in limbo, awaiting the results of the air quality assessment and assurances that their workplace will be made safe before they are allowed to resume full duties.