Having a problem at work?
 

Are you experiencing problems in your workplace?

The first step in resolving workplace issues is to discusses the problem with your steward. Union contracts most often provide language that protects you from harassment, unjust terminations, unsafe working conditions, reasonable rules for discipline, wages, ect. If your rights have been violated, your steward may suggest that you and him/her speak with management regarding the problem. If this fails at providing a resolution then he/she may suggest that you file a grievance. Once a grievance has been filed, a hearing will be scheduled and your Teamster business agent will come to your worksite to enforce your contract on your behalf. During this process please continue to stay in touch with your steward and/or agent. Union members have a advantage over their non-union counterpart in the fact that they have a voice in there workplace, along with the security of having a contract. Your agent can be reached by calling Teamsters Local 886 at: (405) 947-2333.

My Weingarten Rights

(Your right to have your Union Representative present)

"If this discussion could in any way lead to my being disciplined or terminated, or affect my personal working conditions, I respectfully request that my union representative or steward be present at this meeting. If this discussion could lead to my being disciplined and you deny my request for representation, I choose not to answer any questions."

In 1975, the Supreme Court ruled in the Weingarten decision, that an employee is entitled to have a union representative present during any interview which may result in his or her discipline. It is up to you to insist on union representation. If you fail to do so, you may waive your rights.

Do the following:

• Ask your supervisor if you might be disciplined as a result of the interview.

• If he says, "NO," ask for a written statement to that effect.

• If he gives you such a statement, you must participate in the interview.

• If not, read him your Weingarten rights, remain for the meeting, take notes, and afterwards immediately contact your union representative.

• If he says you might be disciplined but will not allow you to have a union representative present, read him your Weingarten rights, stay in the room, take notes, and do not respond to any questions. Afterwards, contact your union representative immediately.

• If he allows your union representative to be present, you should participate in the interview.