DIY SOS

Workers’ fears as shop chiefs send them instructions on how to make dodgy Blue Peter-style protective screens from double-sided sticky tape and flimsy cardboard.

- JAMES MONCUR

POUNDSTRETCHER bosses have been slammed for sending staff Blue Peter style instructions to build protective kit.

The company’s director of health and safety, Martin Crapper, sent all stores an email and photos outlining how to knock up shoddy till barriers.

But staff accused the company of putting profits before health and claimed the scheme was an “amateur attempt at safety” that “stinks of cost-cutting”.

The issue was highlighted by a whistleblower who forwarded Crapper’s message.

The memo includes comical instructions with annotated photographs showing staff how to make three different screens.

The equipment needed includes cable ties, hole punches, plastic sheets and double-sided sticky tape – made popular by Blue Peter presenters on the popular children’s TV show.

The screens are supposed to help protect serving staff against airborne coronavirus droplets.

The whistleblower, who wished to remain anonymous, said staff are furious at Poundstretcher’s attitude toward its workforce.

They said: “This company is all about cutting corners and saving money and they are now putting profit before the health of their staff.

“This is nothing more than a project you’d see on Blue Peter or in a primary school.