Dell dumps service workers after they secure better pay and job conditions

Unionized workers negotiated contract that ensured they would be paid at least $15 per hour and included protections against sexual harassment

Computer company Dell is dumping a team of cleaning staff just two months after they signed a new contract giving them better pay and new protections against sexual harassment in the workplace.

On 1 May, services contractor Able drew up a new agreement which ensured its 8,000 Bay Area cleaners would be paid a minimum of $15 per hour - an increase of $0.76 - and get better family healthcare benefits. Language was also added to the contract to give protections from sexual violence - an all-too-common problem for female staff.