Our Teamster contract protects our right to take a break in a cool area to rest and recover. It’s up to us to enforce it and protect ourselves and our fellow Teamsters.
The company’s own Recharge Training says: “On extremely hot days, slow down. Take more frequent breaks.”
Work safe and smart. Protect yourself by taking heat safety breaks when necessary. Follow these steps.
1. Don’t wait until you are in a dangerous situation.
During extreme heat, you may need to work at a slower pace than usual.
2. If you’re overheated, get to a cool zone.
If you work inside and management has not set up cool zones, here’s what to do.
3. Take additional breaks when you need to.
Tell management you are taking a cool down break because you are overheated. Use this right, don’t abuse it. If you’re a driver, always communicate using the DIAD.
4. Rest and recover in a cool zone.
When you’ve recovered, tell management you are returning to work.
5. If you are not getting better, call emergency services.
If you’re instructed to clock out for your cool down break, tell management that you have the right under Article 18 to take a cool down break. But work as instructed. Document the violation. Talk with your steward and file a grievance under Article 18, Section 27 (13).
Get Help!
TDU and UPS Teamsters United can help you enforce your contract, including the heat safety language in Article 18.
Click here to send us a message and order heat safety enforcement materials or call 313-842-2600 to talk to a TDU organizer.