Episode 75: Trapping a lion. Julio Cesar Chavez. Grieving Management removing our hard plastic trays from our cases

Corey discusses a grievance filed in 2014 regarding the placement of hard plastic trays used for mail delivery. Management instructed carriers to store the trays away from their cases, contradicting past practice and the M-39 handbook. The grievance, supported by the union, argues that management is violating Articles 3, 5, 15, and 19 of the national agreement by unilaterally changing procedures. The union contends that past practice allows trays to be kept at the carrier's case. The episode highlights management's argument based on Article 3, which allows for management rights to direct work, and cites OSHA concerns as justification. The arbitrator's decision, referenced in the grievance, agreed with the union's assertion that the Eastern Area redline policy is no longer in use. Corey emphasizes the importance of using the grievance procedure as a tool to dig a "hole" for management to demonstrate the need for a change in their behavior. He also urges shop stewards to look beyond the grievance process, to take care of carriers, offer EAP support, and to not allow despair to set in. The episode also addresses listener feedback, including requests to use less jargon and to improve podcast structure.

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