Mechanics Dispatch -- March 19, 2020

Special Update

March 19, 2020

Aflac

During these difficult times the IBT and Aflac have been looking at ways to help our members. Aflac has agreed not to lapse coverage for any participant in the Teamster Supplemental Benefits program in the event they might find themselves in a furlough situation and are not able to make payments through payroll deduction. This will cover 60 days initially and will be reviewed by Aflac on a monthly basis thereafter. 

This will keep coverage in place in the near term. Be assured that Bill Loweth and I will remain in constant communication on this and keep you up to date. Please remember that there is so much about the Coronavirus situation that we are just beginning to understand. Beyond this first 60 days, Aflac will, at a minimum, give those no longer on payroll deduction an opportunity to continue coverage on a direct pay basis, or to suspend coverage with the right to re-activate it at a later time with the exact same benefits, guarantees and costs. 

Fraternally,

 
Ken Meidinger
International Representative Airline Division
UAL Benefits Coordinator

Mechanics' Dispatch -- March 16, 2020

Special Update

March 16, 2020

Brothers and Sisters,

Last evening, (March 15th)  the company held a conference call with leaders of each union. The outlook has degraded considerably over the last couple of days and looks to continue to get worse for months to come. 

The company laid out their plan for officer and management compensation and asked that we all share in helping the company through this unprecedented rough period. However, many of us have been through tough times in the airline industry. The nature of the industry has always been cyclical. Recession, terrorist attacks and disease are always waiting around the corner. 

At this time, to even enter discussions designed to ensure the company's survival, there must be commitments made that any sacrifice will be repaid when this pandemic passes. Until there are such commitments, we are not prepared to discuss amendments to the collective bargaining agreement.  

In Solidarity,

Vincent Graziano
Local 210, Business Agent
IBT National Coordinator, Airline Division

Mechanics Dispatch - Special - March 13, 2020

Special Update
March 13, 2020

Brothers and Sisters,

Today after discussions with the company, I was able to achieve an agreement that no one affected by COVID-19 virus will be disciplined for using their sick leave. In addition, that company will also work with you if you are the sole caregiver as a result of a school closure due to the COVID-19 virus. 

If you are taking time to quarantine or recover and discipline is issued, reach out to your Stewards or Business Agents and we will hold the company to their agreement. 

Please use common sense and don't come to work with flu like symptoms. 

Vincent Graziano
Local 210, Business Agent
IBT National Coordinator, Airline Division

Mechanics Dispatch - Special Update - March 12, 2020

Special Update
March 12, 2020

Brothers and Sisters,

Yesterday the Airline Division leadership met with Oscar Munoz and his team in Washington D.C. to discuss the ongoing crisis surrounding the COVID-19 pandemic. To say the situation is dire is an understatement. With that said, the company is doing everything in its power to avoid layoffs.

To help understand the economic situation, the company held an investor call on Tuesday, which was attended by the Airline Division. The company believes a worst case projection is for a 70% reduction in revenue over a two-month period that would gradually decrease to a 20% reduction by December. For those that have been through other industry crises there is at least some good news. The company starts with a healthy balance sheet, and they are making decisions quickly to end discretionary spending.  

During the meeting with Oscar there was no discussion regarding relief from the CBA. The only thing requested was ideas for how to weather the storm. We brought forward the idea to temporarily bring outsourced work back in house to keep the membership busy with work that would need to be accomplished regardless of a reduced schedule. In addition, we are still trying to work with the Company to amend their Company offered Leave of absence so it reflects the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Let me reiterate, the Airline Division did not participate in the construction of the leave and will continue to ensure that the company institutes leaves of this nature in accordance with the agreement. 

As the meeting was wrapped there was a joint commitment to discuss additional ideas to help keep our members employed.

Last night, after our meeting with Oscar, the Administration took the extraordinary measure of shutting down travel to Europe for thirty days. This action will most likely impact the company's broader decisions regarding spending and employment. 

As with other crises in the past, no one can predict how long the coronavirus will impact travel demand, but the chances of the virus tipping our economy into a longer-term recession are much greater now. The industry and the economy will recover from this event, but it will take time.

To end on a better note, while we don't know the duration of this crisis, all airlines are projecting that recovery will take place sometime in 2021 meaning it will eventually subside and there will be a return to normal. For now, take the precautions laid out by the CDC and keep yourself safe. 

We will continue to meet with the Company to develop solutions to mitigate any impact on our members. This is an unprecedented crisis for our industry and we will update you as this situation unfolds.

Vincent Graziano
Local 210, Business Agent
IBT National Coordinator, Airline Division

Mechanics Dispatch - March 6, 2020

Technicians Update
Special
March 6, 2020

Dear Brothers and Sisters, 

The corona virus is spreading rapidly around the world which is having a serious negative effect on air travel. We don't yet know the extent of this industry shock, but we will continue to monitor the situation.

In the meantime, our safety department has shared recommendations from the CDC to protect yourself as best as possible. If you haven't seen the information, it is available at:
https://teamster.org/sites/default/files/coronavirus_flier.pdf 

As for job security, while no layoffs are seen near term, the company is offering voluntary leaves of absence in order to try to mitigate unforeseen losses due to the coronavirus. Let me reassure you that all of your contractual guarantees remain in place and will be protected. 

The company has invited labor leaders to participate in ongoing, twice weekly calls to discuss the impacts of the virus. We have accepted the invitation and will be participating in those calls. 

If anything changes regarding the above, we will inform you as soon as possible.  

Please watch for symptoms and stay home if you are sick. We are prepared to defend anyone that makes the very rational choice of staying home as opposed to spreading this disease. 

In Solidarity,

Vincent Graziano
Airline Maintenance Coordinator
Airline Division
International Brotherhood of Teamsters

Teamsters Primary Election Voting Guide

The California primary election is Tuesday, March 3, 2020.

Click the banner below to view the Teamster-endorsed candidates in elections in the United States Congress, statewide, and your local area.

February Business Agents' Report

New Hire Pay Proposal Update

As we reported to you previously, after much effort, we were finally able to secure a meeting with UAL Senior leadership on October 21, 2019. At that time the first order of business was to share a sample of twenty letters we received from our members detailing the many challenges they were facing living in the Bay Area, where an already high cost-of-living has soared in recent years. We did not proceed with our presentation until everyone in the room read the letters.

Afterwards, we shared a detailed proposal to increase wage rates for folks in the first four years of the Appendix A Scale. We included all relevant financial data with the proposal and asked that the new increases take effect on December 5, 2019.

We thought if the Company was able to read first-hand accounts of all the trials our folks faced, whether it be technicians living in their vehicles, or staying in crashpads with up to 18 other people, or that family of four cramped in a one bedroom apartment in a rough neighborhood, they would see this was a crisis situation that had to be handled with an extreme sense of urgency.

In December, after not receiving any word of a decision, we initiated a follow-up meeting with the Company which took place in mid-January, where Principal Officers Peter Finn from Local 856 and Chris Griswold from Local 986 were in attendance. Unfortunately, the meeting ended without a path to alleviate what we believe is a serious crisis that our newer Brothers and Sisters face. At that time, the principal officers did strenuously reiterate to the Company that the status quo is unacceptable.

We are not sure that the Company has come to recognize this situation as a crisis as we do. Yet, what we do know is that we here new stories every day of those who have had to give up and leave the Company for their sake and their families' sake.

The parties agreed to meet again in the near future. As of this time, dates have been proposed for March and we are waiting for confirmation.

2020 Scholarships are Taking Applications

It's that time of year again folks. If you are interested in obtaining some additional funds to help with your child's college tuition expenses, please make sure to apply for the variety of scholarships available to our members. Right now, there are two scholarship programs currently taking applications, The Local 856-986 Scholarship available exclusively to UAL members at SFO and the James R. Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Fund which is available to all members in good standing. The Local 856-986 Scholarship will be taking applications until March 31st. You can find out more information, including how to apply, by going to our website at TeamstersSFO.com. The James R. Hoffa Memorial Scholarship Fund will be taking applications until March 2nd. You can also find more information on our website or you can go directly to jrhmsf.org. We will be sure to let you know when additional scholarship programs such as the California Teamsters Hispanic Caucus begin taking applications.

Retirement Seminar Draws a Packed House

On February 8th, over 75 members and spouses packed the Local 856 meeting room to hear valuable retirement information provided by Teamster Member Assistance Coordinators Steve Loone and Steve Crummey along with guest speakers from Kaiser Permanente, Fidelity Investments, and the United Airlines Pension Department. If you are contemplating retirement and were not able to participate, you can still receive information like the Retirement Benefits Guide or get any additional retirement questions you may have answered by contacting Steve Loone or Steve Crummey. Their contact information can be found on the Union Board in your area. Remember, it is never too early to start planning for retirement!

SFO System Board of Adjustment Schedule for 2020

The Airline Division has confirmed the SBA schedule for SFO for 2020. We will host System Boards three times during the year to hear grievance cases that are at the 3rd Step (SBA Level) of the Grievance process where no resolution with the Company can be obtained. The three 2020 dates for SFO are April 21st-22nd, July 15th-16th, and October 14th-15th. If there are any termination cases to be heard, additional dates will be scheduled with the Company throughout the year, depending on timing.

System Board of Adjustment (SBA) Explained

We figured this was a good time to talk about 3rd Step (SBA Level) grievances again. As many of you already know, once a contract grievance is elevated to the 3rd Step by the Grievance Committee, it is the responsibility of the Business Agents to move it forward. That process will likely initially involve direct engagement with Labor Relations and Local Management in order to discuss resolution. If no resolution is reached, we will schedule the grievance for a 3rd Step hearing, which is officially called a System Board of Adjustment (SBA) hearing, per Article 19.D.

At the SBA hearing, the Union will present its case supporting the grievance first and then the Company will present its case against the grievance. The System Board consists of four members, two from the Company and two from the Union. There are generally three possible outcomes for a contract grievance. The first is that the grievance is ‘sustained’. In that case, the Company must enact the appropriate remedy. The grievance can also be ‘denied’, which is rather self-explanatory. In both cases, where the Board sustains or denies the grievance, the ruling of the Board is final and binding. The third outcome is called a ‘deadlock’, whereby the Board cannot reach a majority decision. In that case the Business Agents will consult with counsel to determine whether or not the grievance should be appealed to the 4th Step, which is the Board of Arbitration (Article 20).

Contract grievances that are appealed to arbitration become the responsibility of the Airline Division and will be arbitrated by the IBT staff attorneys or outside counsel. The local Business Agents continue to assist throughout the preparation process for these grievances until they are ultimately heard in Chicago, unless there is mutual agreement on another venue, on the previously agreed upon dates. Arbitration hearings are presided over by a neutral arbitrator, with one member from the Company and one member from the Union also sitting on the Arbitration Board. After presentation of the cases by each side's attorney, in the same order as presented at the SBA, the parties adjourn and await the completion of the stenographer’s report. Once the report is completed and delivered to the parties, the attorney for each side will prepare a final brief outlining all of their arguments. Those briefs are then submitted to the arbitrator to be used in rendering a final decision. Once the arbitrator has rendered a decision, that ruling is final and binding on the parties.

Likewise, if any of our members are terminated for any reason, a grievance is automatically filed on that member’s behalf and it moves directly to SBA Level. The SBA hearing process for terminations is essentially identical to that which is used for contract cases except the Company presents first. If the System Board deadlocks on a termination, the Business Agents will consult with our local attorney as to whether or not to arbitrate. If the decision is made to arbitrate, our local attorney will handle the arbitration and the hearing will be conducted here at SFO.

Union History for the Month of February

February 7, 2008 - A huge explosion and fire at the Imperial Sugar refinery northwest of Savannah, Georgia, killed 14 and injured 38 people. The explosion was fueled by massive accumulations of combustible sugar dust throughout the packaging building. An investigation by the U.S. Chemical Safety Board stated that the explosion had been “entirely preventable,” noting that the sugar industry had been aware of the risk of dust explosions since 1926.

February 9, 2000 - Boeing engineers and technical workers begin what is to become a forty-day strike over economic issues. At the time, it was the largest white-collar strike at a private company in the U.S. It ended in a victory for the 22,000 workers represented by the Society of Professional Engineering Employees in Aerospace (SPEEA).

February 19, 1910 - The Philadelphia Rapid Transit trolley company fires 173 workers – all members of the Amalgamated Association of Street and Electric Railway Employees of America – and replaces them with scabs from New York City.  Street battles, demonstrations, and a general strike ensued in the city that lasted for 57 days.

We must never forget!

Union Quotes

The man who has his millions will want everything he can lay his hands on and then raise his voice against the poor devil who wants ten cents more a day.  We do want more, and when it becomes more, we shall still want more.  And we shall never cease to demand more until we have received the results of our labor - Samuel Gompers

Never forget, people DIED for the eight-hour workday - Rebecca Gordon

An imbalance between rich and poor is the oldest and most fatal ailment of all republics - Plutarch

Our Commitment to Communication

The communication process is an extremely important part of what we do to represent our folks here at SFO and, as we have been outlining for quite some time, we have been blasting out the BA Report along with any other communication we get from the Airline Division or the International to anyone who registers at the TeamstersSFO website. We feel that it is essential for all of our members to be engaged and informed at all times. Therefore, we encourage all of you to spread the word to your fellow technicians to go to the TeamstersSFO website and click on the ‘email signup’ tab to get on the list.

Additionally, the Chief Stewards hold weekly meetings with the Shop Stewards to pass on any important informational items that may come up during the month. It is crucial to our process that every work area on every shift have Shop Steward representation and that the Shop Steward give, at a minimum, weekly briefings to his/her crew so that all the information gets to our members and members have the opportunity to ask questions.

Most importantly, we urge you to also consider getting more involved. Every month, on the last Thursday, we hold Craft Meetings at Local 856. At these meetings, the membership hears reports from the Business Agents and other members of the SFO Committee on Grievances, Safety, Member Assistance, and the TSAP program. Additionally, all members have an opportunity to ask questions and to bring up topics for discussion. Check your IBT Bulletin Board for dates and times and make it a point to stop by.

Mechanics Dispatch - January 30, 2020

Brothers and Sisters,

Following the recent outbreak of respiratory illness caused by the coronavirus that originated in Wuhan, Hubei Province, China in December 2019, your union is working closely with the IBT Safety and Health Department and the UAL Safety Department to ensure the safety of all Teamster members who work with the traveling public and provide cleaning or maintenance on aircraft. For now, our recommendation is that you take the same basic precautions you would when cleaning or working in the interior of aircraft that you would normally take: wash and disinfect your hands frequently, use protective gloves whenever there is a possibility of coming in contact with infectious agents and use surgical masks to cover your nose and mouth if you believe it is necessary. United Airlines will be posting updates on the Flying Together Tech-Ops Home Page as they become available. We will post updates on the Teamster Airline Division as they become available.

As OSHA has noted, “There is much more to learn about the transmissibility, severity, and other features associated with 2019-nCoV as the outbreak investigation continues[1].”

At this writing the Coronavirus (2019-nCoV) is a biosafety level two (BSL-2) virus. Employers and workers should consult interim guidance[2] from the CDC specific to 2019-nCoV, along with existing resources for other coronaviruses like Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS) for precautions appropriate for this similar virus. You should also be aware that level three guidance has been issued for travel to China.

OSHA’s National Office,[3] State OSHA Plans and state and local health departments have current info about the virus as well.

Quick Facts

Coronaviruses are part of a large family of viruses that circulate in animals and occasionally cross species and infect humans. Human coronaviruses commonly cause mild to moderate illness in people worldwide. Two newer examples of coronaviruses include ‘Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome’ (SARS-CoV) and ‘Middle East Respiratory Syndrome’ (MERS=CoV).

Without sustained human-to-human transmission, most American workers are not at significant risk of infection. However, workers involved in airline operations (including cabin crewmembers), healthcare (including clinical laboratory personnel), and border protection may have exposure to travelers infected with the virus in China or other affected areas.

[4]

• Five cases of the coronavirus infection in the U.S. have been confirmed in the U.S. have been confirmed in Arizona, California, Washington and Illinois.

• The 2019-nCoV can cause pneumonia, which may be severe.

• Signs and symptoms of infection include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. People infected with the virus may have these, as well as other symptoms.

Hazard Control and Prevention 

Per OSHA and CDC, all workers who may be exposed:

• Frequently wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds.

• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.

• Avoid close contact with people who are sick.

• Stay home when you are sick. 

• Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.

• Use the proper disinfectant that is approved for use on the aircraft or ground facilities and follow the directions as most disinfectants require a dwell time on the surfaces to be effective prior to wiping off.

• Existing OSHA standards[1] apply to protecting workers from 2019 novel coronavirus (2019-nCoV).

In addition to the above, please read any bulletins or notifications your employer has issued about the Coronavirus. 

REFERENCES:

[1] https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/novel_coronavirus/index.html

[2] https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html

[3] https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/novel_coronavirus/index.html

[4] https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/novel_coronavirus/index.html

[5] https://www.osha.gov/SLTC/novel_coronavirus/standards.html

Airline Division Week in Review -- January 25, 2020

UAL Maintenance Controllers Update

The UAL IBT Negotiating Committee and UAL have concluded the first of two scheduled negotiations sessions for January. With the non-economic issues cleared, the sole focus of the negotiations is the exchange of economic passes.

In a message to the membership, the negotiators reported that the Company started the session by passing their latest attempt at a comprehensive economic package. Although the Company made some improvements with regard to pay parity, the committee felt that there is clearly more work to be done.

With considerable differences between the two parties remaining, the parties searched for alternative solutions to bring the groups closer together. Executive session talks with the Mediator took place on Wednesday that paved the way for the Union’s response to the Company’s latest proposal.

Through a creative approach, the Union was able to draft an economic package that considerably lowers the total price of the contract. The Union officially pitched this idea to the Company at the table on Thursday morning. Another executive session took place Thursday afternoon with the Mediator to discuss the Company’s thoughts on the Union’s pass and what the next move will be for them.

Both parties have been satisfied with the assistance of the Mediator and are hopeful for continued progress. 

ExpressJet Negotiations Update

Negotiations resumed this week under the supervision of the National Mediation Board. 

With both the Union and the Company firmly committed to their respective positions as noted previously, the Mediator presented the parties with a “Mediator’s Supposal” that combined the positions of both parties. The parties agreed that the Supposal provided a starting point that would keep the parties at the negotiating table. 

The Company and the Union are scheduled to meet the week of March 23rd.

Teamsters, TMAP Honored for Helping Veterans and Military Families

Teamsters Airline Division representative Chris Moore, on behalf of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, has accepted the 2019 Eugene and Ruth Freedman Leadership Award from Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services.

The honor recognizes the Teamster Union's leadership and outstanding commitment to addressing the well-being of veterans and military families.

Colonel David Sutherland (RET), Chairman of Dixon Center said, “President James Hoffa and the Teamsters Military Assistance Program (TMAP) have influenced labor unions and their contracted employers across the country on how to utilize internal resources to assist veterans and military families in a positive way. They have created a unique pathway for veterans and active military service members to participate in life-changing career pathways. Dixon Center proudly recognizes them for their ongoing efforts and leadership. The continued efforts are life-changing for our service members as they transition from military to civilian culture.”

Accepting the award (L to R): Colonel Duncan Milne (Dixon Center); Chris Moore (International Brotherhood of Teamsters); Colonel David Sutherland (Dixon Center); Rick Freedman (Freedman Foundation).

Airline Industry News

Governmental and Regulatory

Following the identified outbreak of the new coronavirus in the Chinese city Wuhan, government authorities yesterday ordered the cancellation of all transportation out of the virus’ epicenter. The Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) also issued a notice to carriers directing them to cancel flights leaving the airport and reduce flights into it, resulting in “zero departure” of flights out of Wuhan International Airport (WUH).

(Source: Air Cargo World)

Iran’s acknowledgment that it shot down PS752 removes that doubt and painfully validates our 5.5 years of work on airspace risk awareness, but it also makes clear that this work was not enough to prevent a repeat tragedy. It is now evident that governments must play a more active role in preventing airlines from flying in conflict zones.

The Department of Transportation announced a proposed rule defining service animals as trained service dogs to assist individuals with disabilities. The rule would ban emotional support animals in airplane cabins. "The proposed rule will go a long way in ensuring a safer and healthier experience for everyone," A4A President and CEO Nicholas Calio said.

Airlines, Industry and Labor

Having drawn the attention of all the transport and logistics specialists – and a slew of other less knowledgeable individuals many agree the end of the road is nearing for FedEx –as an independent company.

John Dietrich has succeeded William Flynn as chief executive of Atlas Air Worldwide. His predecessor, Flynn, will transition to chairman of the board. Meanwhile, Robert Agnew has become the board's lead independent director. The company said the leadership moves are the "culmination of a comprehensive succession process led by the board to ensure strong leadership continuity as the company continues to advance its strategic growth agenda." Dietrich previously served as executive vice president and COO at Atlas. He holds over 30 years of experience in aviation, and more than 20 years with Atlas Air.

Alaska Air CFO Brandon Pedersen will retire in March and will be succeeded by Shane Tackett, currently the airline's executive vice president of planning and strategy. Tackett has held multiple roles since joining Alaska in 2000, including managing e-commerce, strategy and labor union relations, a role he will continue to play as CFO.

Freighter operators moving cargo on intra-Americas routes have a new option as Airglades International Airport (AIA) targets their traffic.

The airport has announced plans for a “state-of-the-art logistics complex in southern Florida to dramatically reshape the efficient flow of perishable goods from Latin American producers to North American consumer markets”.

Thinking About Retirement?

Come to our Pre-Retirement Seminar!

Teamsters SFO is hosting a pre-retirement seminar for all active and retired mechanics & related members at United Airlines in the San Francisco Bay Area.

Saturday, February 8, 2020
9 AM - 12 PM 
Teamsters 856
453 San Mateo Ave., San Bruno

Light refreshments will be provided. 

Parking is available on the street and in the parking lot through the alley across the street from Teamsters 856.

Airline Division Week in Review -- Christmas Day 2019

As we approach the end of 2019, we would like to extend to each of you and your families our very best wishes for the holiday season. Whether it is Christmas, Hannukah or many of the other holiday traditions, we wish each of you the very best.

We also ask that you think of your fellow brother and sister Teamsters who may be at work here and around the world and include them in your thoughts.

In observance of the holidays, the offices of the Airline Division will be closed this week and we will reopen for regular business on Monday, December 30th.

December Business Agents' Report

SFOMM Technician Oscar Medina Qualifies for Olympic Trials

We have an amazing athlete in our midst! On October 13th, SFOMM Technician Oscar Medina ran the Chicago marathon in 2:18 hours to qualify for the Olympic trials being held in Atlanta this coming February. Oscar, who works at Terminal 1, ran Track and Field at Lakeview High School in Chicago, Class of 2011, then went on to compete at Southern Illinois University afterwards. He has been running marathons competitively for about four years now. We want to send out a big fat congrats to Oscar and wish him good luck at the trials!
B-Scale Pay Proposal Update
On Monday, October 21st, we flew to Chicago to meet with United Airlines senior leadership regarding B-Scale pay. During the meeting, we first presented them with a series of letters from our newer technicians outlining the significant challenges they are having making ends meet in the San Francisco Bay Area. Afterwards, we presented them with a detailed proposal to increase the pay of those folks. We had hoped to receive an answer to our proposal by now but, unfortunately, we have not. We will be sure to pass on any news we receive as soon as we get.

Article 11.M Non-Critical Illness
We have had several questions, along with a recent grievance regarding the Company's policy of auto-designating Article 11.M Non-Critical Illness concurrently with Kin Care when it is requested for a spouse or dependent child of our member. After seeking advice on the matter from Union Counsel, we will be brief and direct on the issue. If you call in Kin Care for your spouse or child, then it is perfectly legal for the Company can run your Kin Care and Article 11.M Non-Critical Illness concurrently. Remember, Article 11.M allows you up to six days of sick leave, with a maximum of two occurrences, for use to care for your sick spouse or dependent child.

Grievance Update
The last scheduled SBA dates for the year were November 12th and 13th. In the preceding weeks, we engaged Labor Relations in several discussions related to the seven open 3rd Step grievances we had identified to have the highest priority.  Additionally, we met with our attorney to discuss several of those grievances as well. In the end, this is how things played out:

Two grievances (Seniority Issue and Article 11.M Auto-designation) were withdrawn for lack of merit based on advice of counsel.

Two grievances (Boston Fuel EFS and Trade Day Off OT Overlap) were settled by the Company including issuance of revised 2nd Step answers and all affected members being made whole. Additionally, an eTA system fix has been scheduled for the issue related to the payment of appropriate overtime rates on the overlap between trade day off and an overtime shift.

One grievance (Revised OT Hours Charging) was sustained, pending review by the Airline Division, before implementation of additional eTA system fix so that overtime charging is done correctly for all hours 'accepted or refused'.

The Company indicated that it was not ready to hear one grievance (Improper Pay). Discussions are ongoing with the Airline Division and the Company in order to figure out the next steps on this one. It is likely that face-to-face meetings with the company will have to be scheduled to discuss appropriate remedies before ultimately moving forward with an attempt to arbitrate this grievance. As such, this grievance in now on hold.

In the end, we ended up having two hearings on November 12th, one for a Termination case and one for a contract grievance (Management Doing Protected Work).

We have one upcoming arbitration related to a termination case scheduled for March. We are actively pursuing dates for another contract arbitration (OV Tool Crib). Additionally, there are current internal discussions underway concerning another contract grievance (SFOMM HNL EFS Bypass) at arbitration level, in light of the arbitration decision we received denying a similar grievance (SFOLX HNL EFS Bypass). We expect the Airline Division attorneys to have a decision soon for us on the matter of whether to pursue or withdraw.

A Message from your TMAP Representatives

The Holiday Season is upon us. This time of year can bring all kinds of emotions and feelings that may be difficult to process. It may be that you have a Family function every year that tends to get out of control because of some underlying family tension or emotional distress. Or you have some memories of loved ones who have passed on that become especially hard to deal with at this time of year. Maybe it’s yours or a family member's drinking problem that seems to get worse during the Holidays that is causing you concern. These are just a few of the things that may cause stress and fatigue at this time of year. If you need someone to confide in about different life events that may be affecting your duties at home or at work and would like to seek help with developing a plan to work through some life events, call one of our Member Assistance Professionals. We have helped a lot of technicians find appropriate resources to start the path of recovery from Grief and Loss, Alcohol/Drug Dependency, Relationship problems and many others. The Teamster Member Assistance Program is here to help 24/7/365. If the Holidays have you down, give us a try before it has adverse effects that may be irreparable at work or at home.

SFOOV/MM/GQ/PV - Steve Loone  650-745-5864

SFOPD/RQ/LX/MP - Steve Crummey  650-745-5867

2020 Retirement Seminar Date is Set

The 2020 Retirement Seminar date has been set for Saturday February 8th.

The event will be held at Local 856 in San Bruno. If you are contemplating retiring in the coming year, this event is a must! We will put out more details including time, agenda, and guests in January. In the meantime, make sure to mark your calendars.

 Our Commitment to Communication

The communication process is an extremely important part of what we do to represent our folks here at SFO and, as we have been outlining for quite some time, we have been blasting out the BA Report along with any other communication we get from the Airline Division or the International to anyone who registers at the TeamstersSFO website. We feel that it is essential for all of our members to be engaged and informed at all times. Therefore, we encourage all of you to spread the word to your fellow technicians to go to the TeamstersSFO website and click on the ‘email signup’ tab to get on the list.

Additionally, the Chief Stewards hold weekly meetings with the Shop Stewards to pass on any important informational items that may come up during the month. It is crucial to our process that every work area on every shift have Shop Steward representation and that the Shop Steward give, at a minimum, weekly briefings to his/her crew so that all the information gets to our members and members have the opportunity to ask questions.

Most importantly, we urge you to also consider getting more involved. Every month, on the last Thursday, we hold Craft Meetings at Local 856. At these meetings, the membership hears reports from the Business Agents and other members of the SFO Committee on Grievances, Safety, Member Assistance, and the TSAP program. Additionally, all members have an opportunity to ask questions and to bring up topics for discussion. Check your IBT Bulletin Board for dates and times and make it a point to stop by.

Union History for the Month of December

December 15th, 1921 - A protest by 500 women in Kansas that began earlier in the week – organized in support of striking mine workers and against new anti-labor legislation that forced unions into arbitration and outlawed strikes in the state – swells to 4,000, stretching a mile long. The women, dubbed the “Amazon Army” by The New York Times, disbanded upon hearing that the militia was on its way. Victory came a year later when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled the Kansas anti-labor laws unconstitutional.

December 3rd, 1946 - In Oakland, California, 130,000 workers from 142 unions – including workers from factories, industries, services, retail stores, transportation systems, and more – declare a “work holiday” and walk off their jobs in support of striking department store clerks and in opposition to police intervention that was facilitating strike breaking activity. The Oakland General Strike lasted for two days.

December 8th, 1993 - President Bill Clinton signs the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) into law, stating that it “will promote more growth, more equality, better preservation of the environment, and a greater possibility for world peace.” In reality, NAFTA has done the opposite: costing jobs and lowering wages, increasing inequality, and compromising environmental and consumer protections.

We must never forget!

Quotes

Every advance in this half-century--Social Security, civil rights, Medicare, aid to education, one after another--came with the support and leadership of American Labor — Jimmy Carter

Today in America, unions have a secure place in our industrial life. Only a handful of reactionaries harbor the ugly thought of breaking unions and depriving working men and women of the right to join the union of their choice. I have no use for those -- regardless of their political party -- who hold some vain and foolish dream of spinning the clock back to days when organized labor was huddled, almost as a hapless mass. Only a fool would try to deprive working men and women of the right to join the union of their choice — Dwight D. Eisenhower

No business which depends for existence on paying less than living wages to its workers has any right to continue in this country. By living wages I mean more than a bare subsistence level --I mean the wages of decent living — Franklin D. Roosevelt

Special Message from the SFO Committee
On behalf of the entire SFO Committee, we want to take some time to wish all of you a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year! We hope that all of you get to enjoy some time with your families and that none of that sacred time is clouded by distractions related to the job. Happy Holidays Folks!

Happy Holidays Folks!

Mechanics Dispatch - December 10, 2019

This time of year brings out all kinds of emotions that can be difficult to process. Family get-togethers, perhaps the loss of a close family member and this being the first holiday without them, maybe you or a family member realizes their drinking is out of control – all these things cause stress around the holidays. This is why the Teamsters’ Member Assistance Program (TMAP) representatives are here to help you and your family.

What is TMAP? The Teamsters offer a free, confidential program designed to help members and their families identify and resolve personal problems or concerns. Our trained TMAP peer coordinators are union members helping union members. We all have ups and downs, it’s not always easy deciding when to ask for help. Your TMAP Coordinator will respectfully listen to your problem and assist you in developing a plan of action that will meet your needs. If necessary, you will be referred to a qualified service provider in your community. The TMAP Coordinator will also follow up with you to ensure that you are both getting the help you need and are satisfied with the referral. How do you know if you really do have a problem? Ask yourself these questions:

• Do I think about a problem frequently, or am I always worried about the same thing?

• Am I telling myself the problem “isn’t that bad and will just go away,” although it doesn’t?

• Do I feel tired, depressed, frustrated, angry or sick?

• Is my job performance or dependability being affected?

• Do I feel like giving up?

What Kind of Problems Can the Teamsters’ Member Assistance Program Help With? Depression and/or anxiety, debt management, grief and loss, alcohol and drug dependency, gambling dependency, relationship problems, divorce, stress related to parenting, domestic violence, elder care and trauma reactions are a few of the issues TMAP can help with.

Is the Union’s TMAP Really Confidential? Yes, the program is highly confidential. We will not discuss your problem with anyone without your written consent. The only limits by law are the intent to harm yourself, harm others, child abuse and/or elder abuse.

What Will It Cost? TMAP services are free. Your TMAP representative will work with you to make effective use of your health insurance benefits and community resources.

What is the Next Step? To get started, call or visit a Teamsters TMAP Representative to begin the process. TMAP is voluntary, so you need to take the first step. A TMAP Representative can help you determine whether you need to take action.

Remember, it’s better to deal with the problem before it becomes overwhelming.

Your TMAP Representatives are:

CALEB GOOD
Chairman, Eastern Region Coordinator
ATL BOS CLE EWR IAD LGA ORD PHL
(630) 485-0227

MIKE BROOKS
Central Region Coordinator
DEN FLL TPA PHX MCO
(303) 335-6540

STEVE LOONE
Western Region Coordinator
GUM HNL LAS LAX KOA LIH OGG PDX SAN SEA SFO SNA
(650) 745-5864

STEVE CRUMMEY
Western Region Coordinator
GUM HNL LAS LAX KOA LIH OGG PDX SAN SEA SFO SNA
(650) 745-5867

DOMINIC FIERO
Southern Region Coordinator
IAH HOU AUS DFW MSY
(832) 443-6599

Sincerely,

Ken Meidinger
International Representative-Airline Division
UAL Benefits Coordinator

Airline Division Week in Review -- Thanksgiving 2019

Work Progressing Rapidly on Divisions Newest Local

Aided by the full support of General President Hoffa, Airline Division Director Captain David Bourne and Airline Division staff, the structure of IBT’s newest Local; 2750 is rapidly coming together.

Since the announcement last month, the International and Division have worked closely with Local 2750 Trustee Captain Bob Kirchner and the ExCo to secure office space and do the time consuming but much needed foundational work to get the offices and systems up and running as quickly as possible.

In a message to the membership this week, Trustee Kirchner said, “We also are within days of securing our office space for Local 2750 in downtown Cincinnati. We are in the final stages of negotiating a few clauses in the lease  Our IT guys and other union workers are ready to move in and start getting set up. The timetable right now has us up and running on a limited basis in December with a grand opening planned for sometime in January.” 

Speaking about the ongoing work, Kirchner said, “In addition to conducting the day to day business of representation, planning for upcoming negotiations with management and holding in-person crew meetings at various locations throughout the system, and a well-attended crew call this week, the ExCo feels that there are sufficient funds in place to adequately fund negotiations and SPC efforts between now and when we get our next collective bargaining agreement. As such, they have determined that it is time to end the crewmember assessment and they hope to conduct the vote electronically starting next week.”

“None of this would have been possible without the total and complete support of General President Hoffa and Division Director David Bourne,”  Kirchner continued. “From the moment we approached them with the request for our own Local and chart our own course; they have provided us support and assistance beyond our expectations. Setting up a Local is not an easy process. The underlying workload is massive and when you add those tasks to the day to day representational issues and contract negotiations; the risk of missing a minor detail that can have massive representational, legal and financial repercussions is tremendous.”

“We’re very pleased with the focus that the Atlas ExCo and Trustee Bob Kirchner have maintained during the transition,” said Division Director Captain David Bourne. “Standing a new Local up is not an easy process; however the dedication to the work and focus on their pilots has been outstanding and we are happy to provide the support that they need,” he concluded.

The next scheduled in-person meetings with crewmembers are scheduled for December 2nd and 3rd at the Courtyard Marriott in Miami, Florida.

Airline Industry News

UPS expects to offer expanded drone delivery to private homes within two years as demand, technology and regulation evolve, says Bala Ganesh, vice president of the company's advanced technology group. The company is focusing first on expanding its medical delivery program, which "is a really good use case because that is life-changing," he said.

Thanksgiving Message

As we gather with family and friends to celebrate Thanksgiving, may we all keep in our thoughts our brothers and sisters who are away from their families and friends here and around the world, in the air, at sea or on the ground. May we all be grateful for the time we all have together and our good blessings.

In honor of Thanksgiving, the offices of the Airline Division will be CLOSED on Thursday, November 28th and Friday, November 29th. We will reopen for regular business on Monday, December 2nd.

On behalf of everyone in the Airline Division, we extend to each of you and your families our very best wishes for a Happy Thanksgiving.

Teamsters Support Safe Aircraft Maintenance Standards Act

The press release below is from the International Brotherhood of Teamsters regarding H.R.5119, the Safe Aircraft Maintenance Standards Act. Click here to view the original press release.

---

For Immediate Release
Nov. 22, 2019

Contact: Kara Deniz, (202) 624-6911; kdeniz@teamster.org

TEAMSTERS SUPPORT SAFE AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE STANDARDS ACT

Legislation Protects Aviation Maintenance Workers and the Flying Public

(WASHINGTON) – The International Brotherhood of Teamsters today announced its strong support for H.R.5119, the Safe Aircraft Maintenance Standards Act, which was passed out of the House of Representatives’ Transportation and Infrastructure Committee earlier this week.

“I’d like to thank our allies in Congress who have been working incredibly hard on this legislation out of their concern for the safety of both their constituents and every U.S. citizen who steps foot on an airplane,” said Capt. David Bourne, Teamsters Airline Division Director. “This bipartisan legislation is a perfect example of representative democracy at its finest.”

The legislation was introduced by House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee Chairman Peter DeFazio (D-OR), Representative John Katko (R-NY) and Representative John Garamendi (D-CA). It requires that aircraft maintenance performed abroad be held to the same standards as maintenance performed domestically.

“This bill closes significant regulatory loopholes that could lead to tragic accidents if they are unattended to,” said Teamsters Airline Division International Representative Chris Moore. “It is in everyone’s best interest to have aviation mechanics overseas held to the same domestic standards regarding inspections, drug and alcohol testing, professional qualifications, background checks, threat assessments and other regulations that are essential to the safety of airline workers and passengers throughout the United States.”

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico. Visit www.teamster.org for more information. Follow us on Twitter @Teamsters and “like” us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/teamsters.

-30-

Airline Division Week in Review -- November 12, 2019

Airline Division Director and Representatives attend Expo

Blake Silverstein-UAL-GSE Technician, Airline Division Director Captain David Bourne, TAMC Chairman Chris Moore and International Representative Bob Fisher RCF staffed the booth at the ProJet Aviation and Education Career Expo. Missing is Allyn Allen, Assistant Director of the Airline Division.

Showcasing the varied career fields available in the aviation industry was the goal as Division representatives attended the ProJet Aviation Education and Career Expo in Leesburg VA on Friday, November 11th. Director David Bourne, Deputy Director Allynn Allen, International Representatives Bob Fisher and Chris Moore were joined by Local 210 Shop Steward Blake Silverstein for the event.

750 local high school students were in attendance and had the opportunity to speak with representatives at over 60 booths about careers in aviation and related fields. Law enforcement, Military, Technical Schools, Flight Schools and the Teamsters were among the participants. As the only Union at the event, the Teamsters brought a unique perspective having industry veterans who having been working to solve the industry Pilot and Mechanic shortages.

The students were fascinated by the array of parts at the Teamster table. The biggest hit was a Fan Blade from a GEnx-1b engine that powers the Boeing 787. The parts generated many questions, and these questions led to more in depth conversations about being a mechanic of pilot.

The Teamsters look forward to participation again next year as part of the outreach effort to bring young people into Aviation.

Blake Silverstein-UAL-GSE Technician, Airline Division Director Captain David Bourne, TAMC Chairman Chris Moore and International Representative Bob Fisher RCF staffed the booth at the ProJet Aviation and Education Career Expo. Missing is Allyn Allen, Assistant Director of the Airline Division.

“These students are the future of aviation and they need to know about the careers that are available to them” said Capt. David Bourne. “Showing these students the pathway to a Pilot or Mechanics license is crucial if we are to fill the pipeline which has been all but depleted for both crafts.”

“Explaining to a student the return on investment on the educational dollar for getting an A & P license was eye opening for almost every student we spoke to,” said TAMC Chairman Chris Moore. “We are encouraged by the number of students we talked to that are interested in an Aviation Career.”

Airline Industry News

Governmental and Regulatory

A Federal Aviation Administration official wrote a memo last month saying that Southwest Airlines Co. should ground 49 of its airliners because repairs were performed that didn’t meet legal standards.

Airlines, Industry and Labor

Boeing Co. engineers redesigning software were nearly done on the grounded 737 Max in June when some pilots hopped into a simulator to test a few things. It didn’t go well.

Alaska Air Group announced three key leadership advancements to position Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air for future growth and success: Ben Minicucci, as president of Alaska, will be responsible for all commercial and operational duties including rollout and execution of the company's strategic plan; Gary Beck becomes Alaska's executive vice president and chief operating officer; and Joe Sprague returns to Air Group in the role of president of Horizon.

Airline Division Week in Review -- Veterans Day 2019

Today, on the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, we pause to honor the fallen. Originally known as Armistice Day, on this day WWI officially ended as Germany signed the Armistice with the Allies, ending what became referred to as “The war to end all wars.”

Known here as “Armistice Day” and by our European allies as “Remembrance Day,” the wearing of a single red poppy on the left lapel became a symbol of such remembrance.

It came simply enough from a poem, “In Flanders Fields.” Written by a  Canadian physician Lieutenant-ColonelJohn McCrae. He was inspired to write it on May 3, 1915, after presiding over the funeral of fellow soldier Lieutenant Alexis Helmer, who died in the Second Battle of Ypres. Helmer, a close friend, was killed during the battle on May 2. McCrae performed the burial service himself, at which time he noted how poppies quickly grew around the graves of those who died at Ypres. The next day, he composed the poem while sitting in the back of an ambulance at an Advanced Dressing Station outside Ypres. According to legend, fellow soldiers retrieved the poem after McCrae, initially dissatisfied with his work, discarded it. "In Flanders Fields" was first published on December 8 of that year in the London magazine Punch.

It is one of the most quoted poems from the war. Its references to the red poppies that grew over the graves of fallen soldiers resulted in the remembrance poppy becoming one of the world's most recognized memorial symbols for soldiers who have died in conflict. The poem and poppy are prominent Remembrance Day symbols throughout the Commonwealth of Nations, particularly in Canada, where "In Flanders Fields" is one of the nation's best-known literary works. (source: Wikipedia)

After the losses in both WWII and Korea, President Dwight Eisenhower changed the name of the day to “Veterans Day” in 1954 to honor of all who have been lost in war.

In remembrance of all who have fallen and are buried on distant shores and here, the offices of the Airline Division will be closed today. We will reopen for regular business tomorrow morning at 9am. We ask that each of you take a moment to remember those; family and friends, who have been lost, and speak their names aloud today lest they never be forgotten.

In Flanders Fields

John McCrae - 1872-1918

In Flanders fields the poppies blow
Between the crosses, row on row,
    That mark our place; and in the sky
    The larks, still bravely singing, fly
Scarce heard amid the guns below.

We are the Dead. Short days ago
We lived, felt dawn, saw sunset glow,
    Loved and were loved, and now we lie
        In Flanders fields.

Take up our quarrel with the foe: 
To you from failing hands we throw
    The torch; be yours to hold it high. 
    If ye break faith with us who die
We shall not sleep, though poppies grow
        In Flanders fields.

Airline Division Week in Review -- October 26, 2019

Growing in Numbers, a new Local is created for Atlas Air Pilots  

At the request of the pilots at Atlas Air, Teamsters General President Jim Hoffa and the Teamsters General Executive Board has approved the formation of Teamsters Local 2750, a newly created local union dedicated to the pilots.

There are about 2,000 pilots who will be members of the union which will be headquartered in Ohio.

“We’re excited about this great opportunity, which is part of our natural journey through unionism as we grow in numbers,” said Bob Kirchner, chairman of the pilots’ seven-member Executive Council and an Atlas Air pilot. “We have a great relationship with Local 1224 and we’re grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of the local. It’s because we’ve come together and grown over the years that we have this opportunity to form Local 2750 and we look forward to what is to come.”

Atlas Air services customers in e-commerce, including Amazon and DHL, as well as the U.S. Military.

“As our negotiations with Atlas for a collective bargaining agreement continue, we expect to make progress with our motivated group of Local 2750 pilots. Over the coming weeks, we will keep the pilots group informed on developments with our local and more ways they can get involved in their union,” Kirchner said.

Teamsters and Airline Division ratify new contract for Air Canada employees

The International Brotherhood of Teamsters have ratified their newest ten-year collective bargaining agreement with Air Canada. The agreement covers over 700 customer service representatives, concierge and premium agents, reservation agents, air cargo workers and other workers at the company’s U.S. base of operations.

“I’m extremely proud of our members at Air Canada and very pleased with the outcome of this process,” said Capt. David Bourne, Director of the Teamsters Airline Division. “Our membership was engaged, enthusiastic and united throughout collective bargaining, and they worked productively with the company to reach an agreement that everyone is happy with.”

“I’d like to thank the negotiating committee for all of their hard work on this agreement,” said Bob Fisher, Airline Division International Representative. “They were able to draft a contract that improves compensation and working conditions while also ensuring that the company will maintain the impeccable safety standards and customer service it has become known for as the flag carrier of Canada.”

The contract was negotiated and ratified in less than six months, a remarkably quick turnaround for a union contract in the aviation industry. The 10-year agreement includes a number of new benefits, including signing bonuses ranging from $5,000 to $10,000, guaranteed protection for medical rates and job security, annual raises and the elimination of black-out periods for vacation. The airline is the largest domestic and international passenger carrier in Canada.

Airline Division/TAMC participate in American Legion Summit

The American Legion held its annual Credentialing Summit on August 28th and 29th in Indianapolis Indiana.

Teamster Airline Division Representatives Paul Alves and Chris Moore participated as the only aviation labor representatives.

Paul Alves moderated the Aeronautics Best Practices Panel. The Panel consisted of representatives from the FAA, Embry Riddle Aeronautical University, Dan Akins, Flightpath Economics and TAMC Chairman Chris Moore. The discussion centered around efforts to help Separating Service Men and Women find a pathway to get their A&P License.

Dan Akin set the stage by explaining the Aircraft Maintenance Technician shortage and the panel discussed various pathways that will allow service members to acquire an A&P license. The Panel found that although the military has multiple avenues for active duty member to acquire the license many choose not to pursue it until they get to close to separation. The two best options other than an accredited school are meeting the time requirement of 30 months or getting into an apprenticeship program either while in or just after separation. Some have been in an Aviation Maintenance MOS and the panel discussed ways to capture that information for use towards the 30-month FAA requirement. Embry Riddle explained their apprenticeship program that will allow people to enter the MRO system as repairmen and the Teamsters Chris Moore described the development of a supplemental on-line program designed to get folks the education they need to combine with their work experience so they can successfully pass the FAA exam.

The on-line program is being developed for use with apprenticeship programs as well.

The Assistant Secretary of Defense sat in on the session and expressed his appreciation for the work being done for our behalf of service members who are separating from active service and moving to the private sector.

Airline Industry News

Governmental and Regulatory

Indonesian investigators have concluded that a series of factors, primarily the design of the Boeing 737 MAX maneuvering characteristics augmentation system (MCAS) system, pilot training and maintenance practices,combined to cause the crash of Lion Air flight 610 a year ago.

Atlas Air won $287M in defense contracts, more than half of the total awarded to 12 US airlines. The contracts are to provide international long- and short-range charter services for the Department of Defense over the next year.

Airlines, Industry and Labor

UPS’ Flight Forward subsidiary has received the first FAA Part 134 Standard certification to use unmanned aircraft for package deliveries nationwide, allowing it to operate a “drone airline.”

UPS Chief Operating Officer Jim Barber will retire at the end of the year. Barber, who was named COO last year, has worked for UPS since 1985, starting as a delivery driver.

It’s legitimate to wonder whether FedEx is on the road to a break-up, whatever the scale of change to its corporate tree might be.

UPS will be increasing its hub operation in Louisville, Ky., with a "series of construction projects around Worldport that could reach $750 million" in the next 15 years and add 1,000 new jobs. Kentucky offered $40 million in development incentives for the construction initiative, which will begin in 2020 with a hangar that can accommodate two 747-8F aircraft, the largest in the UPS fleet, and may also encompass taxiway improvements, renovated office buildings, training facility expansions and new operations offices.

The growth in air cargo tonnage in the second quarter of the year was down 5% compared with the first quarter of 2019.

A shareholder lawsuit has been launched against FedEx, claiming “tens of millions of dollars in damages”. The claim highlights the accuracy of corporate earnings calls and the responsibility of executives to ensure transparency. 

Teamsters Aviation Mechanics Coalition Newsletter

Fall 2019 | Volume 10, Issue 3

Check out the Fall 2019 edition of the TAMC Newsletter! In this edition, we cover the American Legion Credentialing Summit, benefit improvements for United Airlines mechanics, the increasing demand for aviation mechanics and much more!

October 2019 Business Agents' Report

Ralph Ortiz and Mike Valladares Receive NSC Labor Division Awards

On September 6th, the TeamstersSFO Committee traveled to San Diego to attend the National Safety Council Labor Division Awards Luncheon.
We made the trip to show our appreciation and support for TeamstersSFO Safety Committee Chairman Ralph Ortiz and Components Safety Committeeman Mike Valladares who were honored at the luncheon for their exemplary work and dedication to workplace safety.

The Labor Division of the NSC consists of government regulators and union safety professionals, such as our TeamstersSFO Safety Committee, who are interested in advancing the cause of workplace safety.
Ralph, who has been involved with Safety since the 90's, received the Labor Division's highest honor: the Edward Egan Soldier of Safety Award.

Mike, who has been at United for 35 years and has been a member of the Safety Committee since 2008, received the Meritorious Service to Safety Award. The awards were presented by National Security Council President Lorraine M. Martin and NSC Labor Division Chair Joe Grabinski.

We are extremely proud of Ralph and Mike for their longtime commitment to the goal of ensuring that the safety policies and practices at United are in the best interest of our members.

SFO Safety Committee Chairman Ralph Ortiz

Components Safety Rep Mike Valladares

Returning to Work from Illnesses of Short Duration

We have been getting questions from our members about the process for returning to work after time off for a personal illness of short duration so we thought it would be a good idea to go over the relevant contract language and explain what it means in terms of your rights.

First, this information does not pertain to those members that are on Extended Illness or some other Authorized Leave. This information is strictly for those members who have taken sick time for an illness of short duration. For Return to Work in these circumstances, the relevant contract language is as follows:
Article 10.D.3 - The Company has the right to verify the fitness of an employee to return to work after any absence by having the employee examined by a Company approved physician.
Article 11.H.1 - United may require an employee to submit to a physical examination by a Company approved physician. This may be requested to verify the employee's illness, disability, occupational injury, fitness for duty or release to duty. The cost of the examination will be borne at Company expense. In addition, an employee will be pay protected for time lost because of said examination if he is at work.
We have been asked whether or not you are required to bring a note from the doctor if you are off sick from work for a period of short duration and you were not under a doctor's care. The simple answer is 'No'. Based on the contract language above, when you return to work, the Company can send you to Concentra or another Company paid physician for a release to duty examination. You are not required, nor can you be compelled, to go to your own doctor to get a note after the fact.
Additionally, if you come to work after an illness for which you were under a doctor's care and you are in possession of a doctor's note, the Company cannot hold you out from work until they get clearance from OPCMD. Once your doctor releases you and you come to work, the Company has no right to hold you out. If they do hold you out until they get OPCMD clearance, you will be pay protected for the duration of time between when you were sent home and you are cleared by OPCMD. Hope this helps.

The MEALP/LUCA Issue

As we first mentioned in the June BA Report, due to the California meal period penalty language in California Labor Code Section 512, the Company changed its policy so that folks working an overtime shift after a regular shift are no longer allowed to leave a half-hour early and receive pay in lieu of taking a 2nd lunch. The Company is basing this policy decision on the 'needs of service' language in Article 17.E. There have been ongoing discussions between the IBT and the Company, but the issue remains unresolved.

As a result, if you are working a 4-over in conjunction with your regular shift, you should take your full half-hour lunch 2 hours into the overtime.
If you are working 8-hour Hold Over overtime after your regular shift, you should be taking a half-hour lunch after two hours, 10-minute break after 4 hours, and another half-hour lunch after 6 hours of overtime.

Those of you working an 8-hour Early Start overtime prior to your regular shift should be taking a half-hour lunch two hours into the overtime shift, a 10-minute break after 4 hours, a half-hour lunch after six hours, and a ten- minute break prior to the beginning of your regular shift.

If anyone tries to deny you any of these lunches or breaks, which conform precisely to Article 17.E, we want you to immediately contact your Shop Steward or Chief Steward.

Annual Teamsters Member Assistance Program (TMAP) Training Held

The Annual TMAP Training was held at the Los Altos Retreat Center from October 2nd thru October 4th. It was attended by 22 TMAP Volunteer Coordinators from around the system including from Orlando, Newark, Dulles, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco. The event was organized by TMAP Regional Coordinators Caleb Good (ORD), Dominic Fiero (IAH), Mike Brooks (DEN), Steve Crummey (SFO), and Steve Loone (SFO). The speakers included Dr. Abby Metcalf (Motivational Interviewing), Carl Crayton (UAL Drug Abatement), Kip Bowen (UAL EAP), Anthony Cozzi (UAL Help Hub), and Carlos Rivera (UAL FMLA) who each presented training seminars designed to guide TMAP representatives as they assist our members with various issues. Additionally, TMAP Regional Coordinator Mike Brooks (DEN) gave a presentation on EAP Ethics. Thanks to all for their participation and dedication to our membership.

If you are interested in becoming a TMAP Volunteer Coordinator, please contact Steve Loone or Steve Crummey.

Kincare Complaint Update

We have been informed by an attorney for the State of California that our complaint is being reviewed by the state. We had been asked to submit a revised complaint and did so a few weeks ago. The complaint is based on the Union's assertion that the Company's policy of auto-designating Kincare when a member calls in sick for a personal illness is a violation of California Labor Code Section 233. We will be sure to update you once we receive any further information.

Union History

October 30th,1912 - Little Falls, New York, mounted police attack striking textile workers – mostly immigrant women and girls – beating some of them unconscious. The police chased the fleeing workers to their strike headquarters, continuing their assault, ransacking the building, destroying their union charter, and arresting the entire strike committee. Despite this, the workers saw the strike through until January 1913, when they won an agreement that included reinstatements, wage increases, and other demands.

October 3rd, 1932 - State troopers march into Kincaid, Illinois, to guard against a sympathy strike by more than 160 of the town’s 180 high school students, protesting the use by their school of scab-produced coal from the Peabody Coal Company while their fathers are on strike over wages.

October 25th, 2011 - Car wash workers at Bonus Car Wash in Santa Monica, California, become the first to unionize in an industry where workers are often exposed to a variety of toxic chemicals without adequate protections, work for extended periods in the sun without rest or shade, and are paid a daily rate that is far less than the minimum wage. The contract provided a wage increase, health and safety protections, grievance and arbitration procedures, and prohibited the employer from firing workers without just cause.

We must never forget!

Union Quotes

Management doesn't seem to understand the importance of the human factor. -Charles, Prince of Wales

When morality comes up against profit, it is seldom that profit loses. -Congresswoman Shirley Chisholm

Corporate power lies behind nearly every major problem we face--from stagnant wages and unaffordable health care to overconsumption and global warming.... With all this happening, why do we not read more about the pervasiveness of corporate power? In large part because even the "Fourth Estate," our media establishment, is majority owned by a handful of mega-corporations. -Marjorie Kelly, journalist and corporate reformer

Our Commitment to Communication

The communication process is an extremely important part of what we do to represent our folks here at SFO and, as we have been outlining for quite some time, we have been blasting out the BA Report along with any other communication we get from the Airline Division or the International to anyone who registers at the TeamstersSFO website. We feel that it is essential for all of our members to be engaged and informed at all times. Therefore, we encourage all of you to spread the word to your fellow technicians to go to the TeamstersSFO website and click on the ‘email signup’ tab to get on the list.

Additionally, the Chief Stewards hold weekly meetings with the Shop Stewards to pass on any important informational items that may come up during the month. It is crucial to our process that every work area on every shift have Shop Steward representation and that the Shop Steward give, at a minimum, weekly briefings to his/her crew so that all the information gets to our members and members have the opportunity to ask questions.

Most importantly, we urge you to also consider getting more involved. Every month, on the last Thursday, we hold Craft Meetings at Local 856. At these meetings, the membership hears reports from the Business Agents and other members of the SFO Committee on Grievances, Safety, Member Assistance, and the TSAP program. Additionally, all members have an opportunity to ask questions and to bring up topics for discussion. Check your IBT Bulletin Board for dates and times and make it a point to stop by whenever you can.

As always, stay informed!

In Solidarity

Mark DesAngles Javier Lectora
Business Agent Business Agent
Local 986 Local 856