5 thoughts on “DBCS Staffing Question”

1. Union and NAME of Local/Branch
   Sacramento Area Local 0066
   Office held, if any
   Steward (Retired)

   You may find this helpful: https://www.21cpw.com/dbcsoshacomplaint.pdf
   You can use it to file an OSHA complaint, or, if you wind up injured because you are assigned to a DBCS by yourself, you can submit it with your OWCP paperwork.

2. Union and NAME of Local/Branch
   San Antonio Alamo Area Local
   Office held, if any
   Editor / Webmaster

   Brothers Bob and Tim’s comments should help you. I would just work normal as you would if you had a partner. Your first responsibility is to work “SAFE”. You are not there to try to ‘please’ your supervisor. You’re there to do a job… safely. If management is harassing you to work faster, definitely ask to see your Steward.

3. Union and NAME of Local/Branch
   Gary Area Local 266
   Office held, if any
   President

   You are obligated to work in a safe and conscientious manner, 8 hours of pay for 8 hours of work. That means work in a way that is consistent and safe. Working in a conscientious manner is subjective, it can mean either fast or slow, just be consistent in your work! You must realize that the JCIM states that NORMAL staffing is 2 employees. There may only be a need to start up or close out in which only 1 is required, or if there is a limited volume for a sort program, or a normally low volume zone. Each instance should be grieved as an individual grievance, Reports showing the volume would need to be pulled to show that it was not a low volume zone and not a NORMAL instance. Each instance needs to show that it was a NORMAL day not fitting into circumstances that are outlined in which it has been agreed that staffing with 1 person is ok. A 1767 would be necessary if management is pushing you to work in an unsafe manner (you’re too slow go faster).

4. Union and NAME of Local/Branch
   APWU. Detroit DDAL

   Yes. Let the machine back up. Do NOT try to keep up with the 40,000 an hour! Run a little, then go sweep it, then return to the front and run a little again. Or run a bunch, then, taking your time, go and clear the full stackers.

   Come on, you are workers! These solutions have been known to generations!!!!

5. Union and NAME of Local/Branch
   phx-metro

   As you can see most of the membership and officials are un-involved. I’d start with the 1767 for future OSHA and legal issues and make sure you get a signed copy from mgmt. If your union local will not act do not be afraid to take them to the NLRB, it will only cost you time but does get results. I like to send certified letters to the plant and district mgrs informing of the safety issues, puts them on a legal hook they cannot excuse their way out of down the road.