Teamsters Demand UPS Progress on Employee Protections and Safety
Teamsters Request UPS Data on Safety and Staffing Issues
Halfway into Historic Contract, UPS Fails Key Provisions
The International Brotherhood of Teamsters has taken a firm stance against UPS by issuing a formal request for information concerning critical issues affecting their drivers. This request arises amidst rising concerns regarding the company’s compliance with recent contract agreements, particularly regarding the delivery of air-conditioned vehicles, addressing overtime violations, and opportunities for part-time workers transitioning to full-time roles.
As part of an unprecedented five-year agreement, which involved nearly 340,000 Teamsters, UPS committed to providing at least 28,000 package cars and vans equipped with air conditioning. This agreement also includes the promise of creating 22,500 permanent full-time jobs. However, Teamsters express their worry that these commitments are not being effectively met by UPS.
Sean M. O'Brien, the General President of Teamsters, has voiced concern over the fulfillment of these provisions. "We are halfway into our national contract, and it is alarming that UPS has not fully adhered to its obligations. The delay in delivering air-conditioned vehicles and the lack of clear information regarding job openings for our members is a significant issue. While our members work tirelessly despite the harsh weather conditions, it seems that UPS is lagging in its duties. The time for patience is running out," he stated.
The Teamsters have set a deadline for UPS to respond to this request by July 1, aiming to unveil the current status of full-time job opportunities available to part-time workers as stipulated in Article 22 of the UPS Teamsters National Master Agreement. Under this agreement, the company is expected to create an additional 7,500 full-time roles over the remaining contract period.
Additionally, the union seeks detailed information regarding all outstanding grievances associated with overtime violations, particularly concerning the provisions outlined in Article 37 of the contract. This provision, often referred to as the 9.5 list, offers protections for workers who are compelled to work overtime and entitles Teamsters to extra compensation in cases of repeated violations by UPS.
Another pressing matter is the provision in Article 18, which necessitates UPS to deliver new vehicles, equipped with air conditioning, to drivers throughout the country. This requirement takes precedence for Teamsters operating in the hotter zones, particularly in states like Texas, Arizona, and Nevada, where heat can exceed 100 degrees. These workers are still waiting for UPS to fulfill their contractual commitments concerning heat protections.
In their information request, the Teamsters are looking for comprehensive data on the deployment of air conditioning in UPS vehicles and the company's plans for enhancing their fleet in the coming months. The Teamsters Package Division estimates that UPS has only delivered about 10% of the necessary air-conditioned vehicles, making the urgency of this information request even more critical.
"UPS must explain how it plans to provide over 20,000 air-conditioned vehicles in the next couple of years when they are already significantly behind schedule," said O'Brien. "The safety of our members is at risk, and UPS must not treat this lightly. The pressures of the summer heat on our workers cannot be ignored. This is not just about numbers; it's about the well-being of thousands of essential workers in our country."
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters is a vital union representing approximately 1.3 million hardworking individuals across the United States, Canada, and Puerto Rico. For more information and to follow updates, visit Teamster.org and follow the Teamsters on social media platforms.
Contact Information:
Kara Deniz, (202) 497-6610
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the Teamsters' request to UPS?
The Teamsters are seeking urgent information about air-conditioned vehicles, overtime grievances, and staffing for part-time workers within UPS.
When is the deadline for UPS to respond to the Teamsters?
UPS has until July 1 to respond to the Teamsters' formal request for information.
How many permanent full-time jobs did UPS agree to create?
UPS committed to creating 22,500 permanent full-time jobs as part of the contract agreement with the Teamsters.
What protections does the 9.5 list provide for Teamsters?
The 9.5 list offers safeguards for workers forced to work overtime and provides additional compensation for repeated violations by UPS.
Why is air conditioning important for UPS drivers?
Delivering air-conditioned vehicles is crucial for driver safety, especially in regions experiencing extreme heat, ensuring worker welfare and compliance with agreements.
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