Philadelphia
Local Memorandum of Understanding
between
National Association of Letter Carriers
Keystone Branch 157
and
United States Postal Service
November 1, 2002
James Gallagher Jack Geoghegan
Postmaster President
Philadelphia, PA Keystone Branch 157 NALC
Philadelphia Local Memorandum of Understanding
Between
National Association of Letter Carriers
Keystone Branch 157
9607 James Street, Philadelphia PA, 19114-3093
Telephone (215) 824-4800 * Fax (215) 824-4102
and
United States Postal Service
November 1, 2002
James J. Gallagher Jack Geoghegan
Postmaster President
Philadelphia, PA Branch 157, NALC
Philadelphia Post Office
November 1, 2002
Table of Contents
Preamble Recognition By The Parties For Improvement/Change 1
Article 1 Performing Bargaining Unit Work 1
Article 2 Non-Discrimination and Civil Rights 2
Article 5 Item 3 Curtailment of Postal Operations 2
Article 7 Employee Classifications (Work Assignments)
Different Crafts 2
Employment Complements 2
Article 8 Hours of Work 3
Item 1 Wash-Up Time 3
Item 2 Work Schedule 3
Item 21 Starting Time Changes 3
Lunch Period 3
Pay Location Badges 3
Overtime 4
Item 21 Regular Working/Non-Scheduled Day 5
Item 21 Utilities/Reserve/Unassigned Regular Working NSD 6
Article 10 Leave 7
Item 4 Conditions 7
Item 12 Non-Prime Time 7
Choice Vacation Period 8
Item 10 a. Notice of Vacation Period 8
Item 9 b. Choice Vacation Period 9
Item 5 c. Duration of Choice Vacation Period 9
Item 6 d. The Beginning Day Choice Vacation Period 9
Item 7 e. Selection(s) 10
Item 10 f. Selection Procedure 10
Item 4 g. Transfers 10
Item 4 h. Exchange of Vacation 10
Item 4 i. Cancellations 10
Philadelphia Post Office
November 1, 2002
Table of Contents
Choice Vacation (continued)
Item 8 j. Convention, Jury Duty & Military Leave 11
Item 20 k. Leave For Union Activities 11
Item 4 Short Term Leave 11
Item 11 Beginning of New Leave Year 12
Miscellaneous Provisions 12
a. Sick Leave 12
b. Blood Leave 14
Article 11 Item 13 Holidays 14
Article 12 Principles of Seniority, Posting Requirements 15
a. Probationary Period 15
b. Seniority Lists 15
c. City Seniority 15
d. PTF Station Selection 15
e. Transfer 15
Article 13 Item 15/16 Assignment of Ill or Injured Carriers 17
Item 17 Identification of Light Duty Assignments 17
Article 14 Safety & Health 17
a. Accident Reports 17
b. Telephone Emergency Number 18
c. Fire Drills 18
d. Security 18
e. Interference With Deliveries 18
f. Working Conditions (Joint Safety Committee) 18
g. Safety Talks 19
h. Safety Checks (Vehicles) 19
i. Vehicle Conditions 20
j. Assignment 20
Philadelphia Post Office
November 1, 2002
Table of Contents
Safety & Health (continued)
k. Hand Trucks 20
l. Cleaning 20
m. Accident Kits 20
n. Appeal Rights Safe Driver Award Committee 20
o. Emergency Medical Treatment 21
p. Injured on Duty Treatment 21
(Rescheduling Appointment)
q. Injuries on The Job 21
Article 16 Discipline 21
a. Inspection of OPF 22
Article 17 Representation 22
Labor Management Area Meetings 23
Labor Management Meeting (Dates) 24
Agenda 24
Cafeteria, Social & Recreation Committee 24
a. Vending Machines 24
Stewards Pin 24
Official Notices 25
Bulletin Boards 25
Article 20 Item 19 Parking 25
Article 35 Employee Assistance Program [EAP] 25
Article 41 Letter Carrier Craft 26
Item 21 Posting 26
Philadelphia Post Office
November 1, 2002
Table of Contents
Letter Carrier Craft (continued)
Item 21 Utility/Reserve (Float) 26
One Day Mail Count 26
Route Inspections 27
Special Inspections 27
Eliminating Routes 28
Local Conditions (Notices, Communications, etc.) 28
Details 29
Item 18 Reassignments 29
Item 18 Excess Carriers 29
Consolidation of Offices 29
Duties of Reserve (Float) Carriers 29
PTF’s Seniority (Holddowns, Vacations, Work Week) 30
Relay Boxes 31
Working Off The Clock 31
Transportation 31
Office Conditions 31
Charity and Bond Drives 32
Public Address Systems 32
Carrier Breaks 33
Item 22 Abolishment of Letter Carrier Assignments 33
Notes 35
Preamble
The parties recognize the need for improvement and of the constant necessity for
change and progress to achieve such improvement.
The NALC will be permitted to review and discuss contemplated changes affecting
the working conditions of the Carriers of the Philadelphia Post Office.
While a number of specific items have been outlined, it is the intention of the
NALC party to this Memorandum of Understanding to continue the good policy that
has already been in effect to the extent that the officials of the NALC will
always be welcome to the offices of the Postmaster and Management Officials to
discuss any matter. Furthermore, the Postmaster and Management Officials agree
to review, discuss and finalize with the NALC Officials prior to adopting any
local procedure materially different from existing practices or new practices
that affect employee(s).
Article 1
Section 6
Performing Bargaining Unit Work
A. Supervisors are prohibited from performing bargaining unit work at Post
Offices with 100 or more bargaining unit employees, except:
A1. In an emergency;
A2. For the purpose of training or instruction of employees;
A3. To assure the proper operation of equipment;
A4. To protect the safety of employees; or
A5. To protect the property of the USPS.
B. In offices with less than 100 bargaining unit employees, supervisors are
prohibited from performing bargaining unit work except as enumerated in Section
6A1 through 5 above or when the duties are included in the supervisor’s position
description.
1
Article 2
Non-Discrimination and Civil Rights
Section 2.1 Statement of Principles
The employer and the Union agree that there will be no discrimination by the
Employer or the Union against employees because of race, color, creed, religion,
national origin, sex, age or marital status.
It will be the policy of the Philadelphia Post Office to provide equal
opportunities for all Letter Carriers, in employment, promotion, training,
assignment and job security.
Article 5 (Item3)
Guidelines For The Curtailment or Termination of Postal Operations to Conform to
Orders of Local Authorities or as Local Conditions Warrant Because of Emergency
Condition.
It is recognized by both parties that on occasion emergency conditions may exist
which could cause the Postmaster and Management Officials to consider the
curtailment of services, such as, but not limited to weather extremes, civil
defense alerts, bomb scares, no heat in winter, no lighting, or excessive
temperatures. In such cases, the Postmaster and Management Officials will take
into consideration the following factors in order:
A. The safety and health of the employees
B. The degree of emergency as stated by and acted upon responsible governmental
authorities.
C. The Postmaster and Management Officials will make every effort to review and
discuss with the NALC before implementation of any action.
Article 7
Combination Work Assignments (Different Crafts)
Management will inform the NALC and other effected Unions where applicable in
advance of the reasons for establishing combination full time assignments within
different crafts in accordance with Article 7, Section 2 in the National
Agreement.
Employee Complements
There will be a continuing effort made by management to establish appropriate
employee complements for both full time and part time flexible employees in
accordance with the National Agreement. An accounting period complement control
report will be furnished to the NALC. Management shall advise the NALC of their
intention of hiring new personnel, intent to maximize and of change of craft(s).
Article 8
Wash-Up
Work Schedules (Item 2)
All regular Carriers will be on a fixed or rotating work schedule as presently
exists. Any contemplated changes Union will be notified and changes will be made
by mutual agreement.
Wash-Up Time (Item 1)
Each Letter Carrier will be granted a reasonable amount of time to wash up prior
to leaving for the street, lunch and before their end of tour. A Supervisor may
grant additional wash up time as necessary.
Starting Time Changes (Item 21)
When starting times of full-time Carrier positions are to be changed, the NALC
will be informed of the reasons for the change.
A. If one [1] hour or less no posting will be required.
B. If more than one [1] hour the decision to post, or not to post, will be
determined after the NALC discussed the change with the Carriers. The NALC will
then advise the Postmaster of the Carriers decision.
Lunch Period
Where practicable no Carriers lunch period shall be more than thirty [30]
minutes. Carriers will take their lunch break before completing six [6] hours of
work.
Pay Location Badges
Employees pay location badges will be handled only by authorized personnel. All
employee pay location badges must be in their designated areas at least five [5]
minutes before the beginning and ending of tour.
Pay location badges must not be removed from their designated areas until at
least six [6] minutes after the start of the tour and the ending of tour.
Item 14
Posting Sign-Up For “Overtime Desired” List (ODL) and
“Work Assignment” List (WAL)
Overtime Desired List By Section/Tour
Each Station and Garage will be considered Sections. A separate overtime desired
list will be maintained in each Station and Garage in the Philadelphia Post
Office.
Two weeks prior to the start of each calendar quarter, management will post the
appropriate sign-up lists by the time clock.
Each full-time regular employee may designate whether they wish to be on the ODL
or the WAL.
Full-time regulars may switch from one list to the other during the two [2]
weeks prior to the start of each calendar quarter. The change will be effective
beginning the new calendar quarter.
Carriers remain on either list (ODL/WAL) until they officially remove their
name. This must be done in writing and will be effective the next day or after
the disputed overtime is worked. Carriers are permitted to remove their names
from the ODL as cited and be placed on the WAL during the quarter.
A copy of the ODL and WAL will be provided to the Steward at the beginning of
each quarter.
Calendar Quarters
First Quarter January, February, March
Second Quarter April, May, June
Third Quarter July, August, September
Fourth Quarter October, November, December
Any employee may request to be excused from working overtime. All such requests
will be given individual consideration. When good and sufficient reason is
given, every effort will be made to excuse such employee. Such excused
opportunity will be considered an opportunity for equalization purposes and
included on the Overtime Desired List. Employees who are required to work
overtime can call home when and whenever possible. Full-time employees called in
ahead of their regular starting time for overtime will not have their regular
work schedule involuntarily curtailed.
Article 8 (continued)
Calendar Quarters
Carriers absent during the sign-up period for the Overtime Desired List and/or
Work Assignment List will be permitted to place their name on either List, on
the day they return to duty.
A Carrier transferred into a new duty station will be given an opportunity to
place their name on the overtime list on the first day they report to the
station. Equalization from date of sign up.
Regular Working Their Non-Scheduled Day
In the event a regular assigned carrier is requested to work on their
non-scheduled day, they will be assigned to work their own route. Full Time
Carriers scheduled in advance on their non-scheduled day to cover a vacant Route
will report at their regular scheduled starting time, excluding Routers, during
unusual circumstances; limited to Sundays and Holidays. (The intent of this
language is to schedule Full Time Carriers in advance and to schedule PTF’s at
later starting times, when necessary.) A Utility Carrier will work any other
route in their string. In the event a PTF or Reserve Carrier (Float) is covering
one of the routes on the utilities string, they will be bumped on a daily basis,
regardless of it being a holddown. If there are multiple routes being covered as
holddowns the Utility will bump the junior person, on their string. If there are
multiple open routes on the Utilities string, the Utility will select the route
they desire to work.
Below is listed the exception to the duration clause and the bumping procedure
to be followed:
(a) Full Time Reserve and Unassigned Carriers who have insufficient work for
eight hours bump Part Time Flexibles on temporary bid assignments. (Holddowns)
(b) Full Time Regular Carriers who are called in to work their own route on
their non-scheduled day, bump their utility or T-6 carriers who then bump a
reserve, unassigned or part time flexible Carrier holding a temporary bid
assignment on one of the four routes on the utility or T-6 string. However,
there is no bumping if there is an open route on the string. If nothing is
available in their string, they will choose vacant assignments with their
seniority.
(c) There is not eight hours of work in the delivery unit for a reserve or
unassigned who may bump a part time flexible holding a temporary bid assignment
rather than be reassigned to another delivery unit where there is eight hours or
work.
(d) A reserve or unassigned carrier is the successful bidder of a permanent
route vacancy.
Article 8 (continued)
Regular Working Their Non-Scheduled Day
(e) A part time flexible carrier is converted to a permanent route vacancy.
(f) Reserve and unassigned carriers bid on permanent route vacancies. Reserve
carriers, by virtue of having craft full time duty assignments, may not be
arbitrarily moved from their permanent or temporary bid assignments. Unassigned
carriers may be assigned to permanent route vacancies after temporary bid
assignments have ended.
Utilities/Reserves/Unassigned Regulars Working Their Non-Scheduled Day
1. A Reserve, Utility or Unassigned Regular called in on a non-scheduled day to
cover an assignment, where the reporting time is 30 minutes or more different
from their normal reporting time, shall assume the reporting time of the
assignment covered, provided there is 12 hours between shifts. If less than 12
hours, management will proceed on the list to the next available carrier. Such
carriers will choose their daily assignment using city seniority.
2. A Utility scheduled in advance on their non-scheduled day, becomes a Reserve
and will choose their daily assignment, using their seniority and will report
and begin work at their regularly scheduled starting time.
3. A Reserve Carrier or Unassigned Regular who is scheduled in advance on their
non-scheduled day will report and begin work at their regularly scheduled
starting time.
4. A Reserve or Unassigned Regular Called in on their non-scheduled day will not
bump a Utility off their assignment even if the Reserve or Unassigned Regular is
on a holddown.
5. A Reserve or Unassigned Regular who is on a holddown and is called in on
their non-scheduled day will choose their assignment according to seniority.
6. A PTF on a holddown who is called in on the Routes Non-Scheduled Day will not
bump the Utility or any other Regular Carrier.
7. On a Non-Scheduled Day call in (same day), the Full Time Carrier will cover
their route or vacant assignment from the time of their report. *The bumping
sequence will revert to the order outlined in Article 8, “Regular Working Their
Non-Scheduled Day.”
Article 10
Conditions (Item 4)
The objective to be pursued is to grant annual leave wherever possible, as
desired by the employee at their request throughout the year. Employees will be
permitted to accumulate annual leave to suit their own convenience up to the
limit prescribed by law. Each Office or Section will maintain a leave
book/calendar which will be made accessible to the Carriers.
Non Prime Time (Item 12)
Submission Procedure For Leave Outside The Choice Vacation Period
On November 30 of each year, each section will determine the active carrier
force. This figure will not include Carriers on Leave Without Pay, injured on
duty and those on extended sick leave, provided they are out more than 30
consecutive days prior to November 30th. Ten [10] percent of the active Carriers
in each section will be permitted annual leave consistent with the following
guidelines:
a. Ten [10] percent [%] figure includes Carriers on jury duty, convention leave
and military leave. Percentages of, or more than, .5 will be rounded off to the
next highest number.
b. Leave will be approved on a first come, first served basis except where
requests are submitted on the same date at which time seniority will prevail.
On December 1 through December 7 of each year, Carriers will submit 3971's,
Annual Leave Request. This will be for the period of January 1 to the beginning
of Prime Time.
On August 1 through August 7 of each year, Carrier will submit 3971's, Annual
Leave Requests. This will be for the period covering the end of Prime Time to
December 31.
All leave slips will be returned to the Carriers by December 15 or August 15
except when the 15th falls on a Sunday or Holiday, in this instance they will be
returned the next workday. During there periods all slips will be considered as
being submitted on the same day.
The following Non-Prime weeks [Easter Week & Christmas Week] 15% of employees
will be granted off using the same procedures as outlined in the Non-Prime Time
Leave Provisions of this Local Agreement. On Thanksgiving, Friday and Saturday,
the percentage will be 12%.
Article 10 (continued)
Non Prime Time (Item 12)
Submission Procedure For Leave Outside The Choice Vacation Period
Easter Week 15%
2003 Sunday April 13 through Sunday April 20
2004 Sunday April 4 through Sunday April 11
2005 Sunday March 20 through Sunday March 27
2006 Sunday April 9 through Sunday April 16
2007 Sunday April 1 through Sunday April 8
2008 Sunday March 16 through Sunday March 23
Thanksgiving 12%
2003 Friday November 28 through Saturday November 29
2004 Friday November 26 through Saturday November 27
2005 Friday November 25 through Saturday November 26
2006 Friday November 24 through Saturday November 25
2007 Friday November 23 through Saturday November 24
2008 Friday November 28 through Saturday November 29
Christmas 15%
December 26 through December 31 no matter how the days fall.
Notice of Vacation Period (Item 10)
Supervisors, in cooperation with NALC Stewards, will announce to Carriers at all
Stations and Garages no later than March 1 of each year, that requests for
vacations will be taken during the period April 1-15 each year. A notice will be
posted at all Stations and Garages announcing the vacation period no later than
March 1 of each year.
Article 10 (continued)
Maximum Number of Employees Off During Choice Vacation Periods
(Item 9)
All Full Time and Part Time Flexible Carriers having earned annual leave at the
time of their requested leave period will receive a vacation during the choice
period. The number of Carrier programmed at one time will not exceed 16%. This
percentage includes Carriers off on earned annual leave, military leave, jury
duty and convention leave. Percentages will be determined by the “active
carriers” on the rolls in each section as of April 1 of each year. Carriers on
extended sick leave, injured on duty, leave without pay are not to be considered
nor counted when calculating the percentage, provided they are out more than
[30] consecutive days prior to April 1. Figures of .5 or more are to be rounded
up to the next higher number.
Duration of Choice Vacation Period (Item 5)
It is mutually agreed that the choice vacation period of each year will be made
up of twenty [20] consecutive weeks as follows:
2003 From May 18 to October 5, 2003
2004 From May 16 to October 3, 2004
2005 From May 15 to October 2, 2005
2006 From May 14 to October 1, 2006
2007 From May 13 to September 30, 2007
2008 From May 18 to October 5, 2008
The Beginning Day Choice Vacation Period (Item 6)
All vacations will begin on Sunday and end on Sunday.
Selection(s) (Item 7)
Carriers who are eligible for three weeks vacation, may, at their option,
request two [2] selections during the choice period in units of either one or
two weeks, the total not to exceed three [3] weeks. (i.e., three [3] weeks in a
row or two [2] weeks and one [1] week.)
Article 10 (continued)
Selection Procedure/Choice Vacation (Item 10)
When the number of Carriers off each week is determined, the supervisor will
make a chart with one space for each week permitted off for each week of the
vacation period. Starting with the senior Carrier (city seniority), the
supervisor will fill in the period of vacation, until all have made their
selection. The supervisor will contact each individual Carrier and no eligible
Carrier will be permitted to select until the Carrier senior to them has
selected. Senior Carriers not prepared to select when contacted will be bypassed
until the next morning. In the event they are still not prepared to select, then
the selection process will proceed. The senior Carrier will be permitted to make
their selection using their seniority at the time they make their selection of
the available weeks left.
Leave slips submitted in duplicate will be signed by the supervisor approving
the selected vacations as the Carriers make their selections. A copy of the
approved slip will be returned to the Carrier the same day. A vacation schedule
will be posted on each Station Bulletin Board.
Carriers off on Leave Without Pay, OWCP Claims and extended Sick Leave who
return after the bidding period may select available open weeks.
Transfers (Item 4)
Carriers transferring from one section to another will be granted their approved
vacation leave as previously chosen in the section from which they transferred.
This will be done at no loss to the Carriers in the section which they transfer
into.
Exchange of Vacation (Item 4)
Exchanges of annual leave periods will be permitted only after all Carriers
between the exchanges in the Station have been offered said period.
Cancellations (Item 4)
Cancellations of choice vacation periods shall be posted for five [5] days. If
less than five [5] days remain before the beginning date of the canceled period,
the vacation period shall be posted for the amount of time remaining.
Cancellations of choice vacation periods may only be bid by Carriers junior to
the Carrier who cancels their vacation. Posting of cancellations is predicated
on the basis that the person who cancels is in an active work status during the
canceled period.
Article 10 (continued)
Convention (National & State), Jury Duty and Military Leave (Item 8)
Carriers in need of these types of leave during the period(s) for either the
Non-Prime Time Selection Period(s) (August 1-7) or (December 1-7) or the Prime
Time Selection Period (April 1-15) are required to notify management as soon as
practical. Carriers having the seniority to get the leave are slotted in based
on the applicable percentage [%] and the number of Carriers permitted off. In
the event they do not have the seniority to be scheduled off, the leave will be
granted over and above the percentage [%]. This is at no loss to the Carrier(s)
other selection(s) during the choice period.
If a cancellation occurs involving the same period, then they move automatically
into that vacant slot. Jury Duty of less than a week does not apply to this
procedure. The above procedure also applies for requests made after the
selection period(s).
Leave To Attend Union Activities (Item 20)
Union Officials requesting leave to participate in Official Union activities
will not have said leave charged against the Union Officer’s vacation periods.
It will, however, be charged against the 10% or 16% overall allotment of leave
to be granted to the work unit where the Officer is stationed.
An employee requesting leave to attend an Official Union function held by the
NALC will be granted leave to the maximum extent possible.
Short Term Annual Leave (Item 4)
Short Term Annual Leave outside of Prime Time selection period, April 1 through
April 15 and regular scheduled Non-Prime Time selection periods, August 1
through August 7 and December 1 through December 7 are as follows:
1. Request(s) for Annual Leave submitted a minimum of five [5] days in advance
of the leave request will be approved/disapproved based on the percentage of
Carriers permitted off at each office or section during either the non-prime
time periods or choice vacation period. Approval/disapproval will be made within
twenty-four [24] hours.
2. Leave request(s) not submitted a minimum of five [5] days in advance will be
approved/disapproved within twenty-four [24] hours.
3. Leave request(s) submitted on the day proceeding the requested leave will be
approved/disapproved as soon as possible or no later than the Carrier(s) end of
tour.
Article 10 (continued)
Short Term Annual Leave (Item 4)
4. Same day short tour leave requests will be approved/disapproved within two
[2] hours of submission or as soon as possible.
All Short Term Leave request(s) will be approved on a first come, first served
basis, except where requests are submitted at the same time, at which time
seniority will prevail.
Approval/disapproval for category #1 will be based solely on the allowable
percentage [%] as provided for during the various periods (Non-Prime Time
periods and Prime Time).
No automatic “Untimely Submission” or automatic “Service Needs” as a reason(s).
Approval/disapproval for categories #2, #3 and #4 may be based on service needs.
The reason must be defined as to what service needs; i.e., unscheduled absences,
overtime would be needed to cover this absence. Once annual leave has been
granted or approved on a Form 3971 by a supervisor, the same may not be
rescinded by any supervisor, except in a serious emergency as declared by the
Vice President, Area Operations.
Determination Of The Date and Means Of Notifying Employees Of The Beginning Of
The New Leave Year (Item 11)
Management will send a notice to each Station by November 1st of each year
notifying Carriers of the new leave year. This notice will be announced to the
Carriers for three [3] consecutive days. Management will not be responsible for
loss of annual leave by Carriers who have annual leave in excess of the maximum
amount of carry over.
Article 10
Formulation Of Local Leave (Item 4)
1. Notice of Being Unable to Report. All requests for leave will be given
individual consideration. An employee who is unable to report for duty due to
illness, injury or because of emergency shall notify their section or station as
soon as possible.
2. Sick Leave/Medical Evidence/Balance. An employee who requests sick leave will
be carried on sick leave for pay purposes only, subject to later management
approval/disapproval. There will be no blanket orders limiting or restricting
the use of sick leave. When medical evidence is required after the employee’s
return to work, the employee must submit such evidence no later than three [3]
days after having returned to duty. Supervisors may accept proof other than
Medical Documentation if they believe it supports approval of the sick leave
application, such as notarized statements, etc. If the leave is disapproved
because the supervisor feels the evidence is unacceptable, the specific reasons
for disapproval will be annotated on PS Form 3971.
Article 10 (continued)
Formulation of Local Leave (Item 4)
A doctor’s certificate will not be required from an employee for an absence if
such absence is at the request of, or with the permission or advice of the Post
Office or it’s designee in writing, during their tour of duty unless otherwise
specified.
No minimum sick leave balance will be established below which an employee’s sick
leave record is automatically considered unsatisfactory (ELM 513.371).
3. Restricted Sick Leave List. If Restrictive Sick Leave is utilized, Management
will review the list quarterly, in accordance with the provisions of ELM 513.37.
If there has been a substantial decrease in absences charged to sickness, the
employee’s name is removed from the restricted sick leave list and the employee
is notified in writing of the removal.
4. Advanced Sick Leave Refused For No Or Low Balance. Request for advanced sick
leave will not be refused solely because the employee has no sick leave or has a
low sick leave balance (ELM 513.5).
5. Emergency Annual Leave. An exception to the advance approval requirement is
made for emergencies; however, in these situations, the employee must notify
appropriate postal authorities as soon as possible as to the emergency and the
expected duration of the absence. As soon as possible after return to duty,
employees must submit Form 3971 and explain the reason for the emergency to
their supervisor. Supervisors approve and disapprove the leave request. When the
request is disapproved, the absence may be recorded as LWOP or AWOL at the
discretion of the supervisor (See ELM 512.422).
6. Request For LWOP. Request for LWOP will be handled in accordance with the ELM
514.
7. Late Reporting. Full Time Employees reporting late up to 50 units (30
minutes) may be permitted to work their full eight hour tour of duty in
accordance with the F-22, Section 214.1 by mutual agreement with their immediate
supervisor or such supervisor may approve the employee’s request for leave to
cover their late arrival. When such accommodations are made, the employee will
not be charged AWOL.
8. Blanket AWOL’s. There will be no blanket orders charging all absentees with
AWOL no matter what day the absence occurs.
9. Retroactive Changes. Retroactive changes will not be made on employee’s leave
entries for the purpose of avoiding payment of overtime.
Article 10 (continued)
Formulation of Local Leave (Item 4)
10. Religious Days. The practice of excusing employees from duty on all
religious holidays and other special occasions to the fullest extent possible
will be continued.
11. Blood Leave. It is agreed that employees excused from their regular tour of
duty is to make donations to the Red Cross or other non-profit blood bank will
receive four [4] hours Administrative Leave. This provision will be handled in
accordance with the Short Term Annual Leave provisions of the Local Memorandum
of Understanding.
Annual Leave will take precedence over Blood Leave. Blood Leave will be granted
within the allowable percentage by seniority. Carriers not able to donate blood
for any reason will be granted travel time to and from the Station.
Article 11
Holidays (Item 13)
The following sequence will be followed when scheduling employees to work on a
holiday or designated holiday provided that such scheduling produces a workforce
which meets the operating skill requirement of the holiday or designated
holiday.
A. All casual and part time flexible employees to the maximum extent possible,
regardless of the necessity to pay overtime premiums.
B. All ful time regular employees who volunteer to work either their holiday or
their non-scheduled day shall be combined into a single group ranked, in
seniority order and selected to work by the list.
1. During the polling, carriers may volunteer to work for Premium (Overtime)
Pay. If additional scheduling is needed after the Holiday Schedule has been
posted, the volunteers will be selected by seniority.
C. All full time regular employees who did not volunteer to work shall be
selected by inverse seniority.
D. If additional employees are needed and not filled by section B-1 above, they
will be selected by inverse seniority.
Article 12
Probationary Period
A probationary employee(s) work performance will be evaluated using appropriate
forms and copies provided to the employee(s) as specified in the ELM 378.
Seniority Lists
Separate seniority lists will be posted and kept current in all sections and/or
stations or work units. Copies of the seniority lists will be furnished to the
NALC and shall be updated during the months of July and January of each year.
City Seniority
City seniority is based on the Carrier’s length of service as a Career Carrier
commencing with the date of their appointment as such or the date of
reinstatement/transfer into the Philadelphia Post Office.
PTF Station Selection
When part time flexibles are converted to regular status, they will select a
station vacancy using their seniority.
Transfers
All regular and part-time (flexible) carrier transfers shall be determined by
city seniority.
All requests for transfers must be submitted in writing on an approved form.
Forms will be provided by management at each Station. After completing the form,
it must be turned in to the manager or supervisor. They will bump it with the
station bumper, initial and provide the employee with a photocopy. It will then
be forwarded to the Postmaster’s Office, Room 306B, 2970 Market Street,
Philadelphia, PA 19104. Requests are limited to four [4] choices listed in order
of their desirability and such requests shall remain in effect for one [1] year.
If the employee is transferred to either of his/her choices the remaining choice
is canceled and the employee must reapply using the above procedure. In the
event an employee wishes to cancel a previously submitted request, he/she must
complete another form indicating that
they are canceling by checking the appropriate box on the form and also
indicating what the previous selection was. If a new request is desired, the
employee must complete and submit another form. All transfer requests submitted
will be dated immediately upon receipt and then logged. Once a cut-off date has
been established, the Union Office will be notified of the date.
Article 12 (continued)
Transfers
Transfer requests for all Regular and Part Time Flexible Carriers will be
honored whenever permanent vacancies or the hiring of new personnel occurs. The
following is a list of all the factors that must be taken into account before a
“Change Order” can take effect.
1. Promotions of any kind.
2. Deaths.
3. Separations.
4. Transfers from on craft to another.
5. Transfers leaving the Philadelphia Post Office.
6. Hiring of new personnel.
7. Retirements (even expected in advance of the cut-off).
8. Shop Stewards who are remaining in the Station they were elected in.
PTF transfer requests from one office to another will be granted in compliance
with this Local Agreement.
Preparation for a PTF Transfer Change Order will automatically commence whenever
new PTF’s are to be hired or when there are requests for transfers between
employees that would cancel out each others request or when PTF’s are promoted
to regular status.
The change order will take effect the same date which the newly hired PTF’s are
to report to their assignments. The newly hired PTF’s assignments are determined
after all requests for transfers are honored by city seniority. The newly hired
PTF’s will then be assigned to wherever the vacancies may be.
Transfers will not be honored for anyone during their probationary period.
The President of Branch 157 or designee will be informed in writing of the
compliment for each office and specific numbers of each Carrier positions there
and any vacancies that exist or occur monthly.
The President of Branch 157 and one [1] Shop Steward from each Office will be
provided with a copy of the “Transfer Request List” monthly.
Article 13
Assignment Of Ill Or Injured Carriers (Item 15 & 16)
1. Permanent Light Duty Carriers will be reassigned in accordance with Article
13 of the National Agreement.
2. If available, light duty will be given to:
a. Carriers with non-occupational injuries or illnesses.
3. Carriers performing light duty work will do so in their Station or other
Stations to the maximum extent possible or within the installation.
4. Light Duty Carriers will be given consideration by seniority for all new
programs involving Carrier duties when they are physically capable of performing
the duties.
5. When a Letter Carrier is assigned to temporary light duty, they will case
their own route and then perform other Carrier office duties that are available.
Identification Of Light Duty Assignment (Item 17)
It is agreed that light duty assignments within Philadelphia Post Office for
Letter Carriers may include by are not limited to:
a. Casing and strapping out of a route or routes.
b. Assisting other routes setting up mail.
c. Marking up forwardable mail.
d. Relabeling Carrier case.
e. Rewriting Carrier route books.
f. Rewriting or lining out of Form 3982's.
g. Maintenance of delivery service equipment.
h. Training new employees.
i. Casing curtailed and/or backlogged mail on other routes.
j. Any other Carrier duties which could be performed by a Carrier on light duty.
Article 14
Accident Reports (PS Form 1769)
PS Form 1769 accident reports will be completed within twenty-four [24] hours in
compliance with the ELM 821.311.
Article 14 (continued)
Telephone Emergency Number
All work units shall have a prominently posted listed of telephone numbers to
call for particular emergencies such as medical, police or fire.
Fire Drills
There will be a fire drill for all employees at least once a year for all tours
and all Stations, Annexes and Facilities, in accordance with ELM 854.2. Report
of drills will be furnished to the Safety and Health Committee.
All routes to fire exits must be clearly marked and followed for fire drills.
All safety deficiencies discovered during such fire drills must be corrected as
soon as possible.
Security
Management of the Philadelphia Post Office to the extent possible will make
every effort to see that security patrols will be increased in their territories
extended to cover all hazardous areas under U.S. Postal Service jurisdiction in
order to protect all postal employees going to, coming from and performing their
duties.
Interference With Deliveries
In order to ensure the safety of Letter Carriers, a Carrier may decide not to
deliver where dogs, other animals, etc., interfere with the actual delivery; or
where the Carrier feels their safety may be in jeopardy. The Carrier shall
notify management of the incident as soon as possible. It shall be the
responsibility of management to contact the owner of any animal and/or whoever
interfered with delivery for corrective measures to be taken prior to resuming
delivery.
Working Conditions/Joint Safety Committee
It is agreed the Safety and Health Program will be maintained vigorously as a
cooperative endeavor between the Philadelphia Post Office and the NALC.
Supervisors will give their fullest attention at all times to this program. Both
parties will do all they can to provide the best working conditions.
The safest working conditions will prevail. Both parties will cooperate to the
fullest extent in their continuing objective to eliminate accidents and safety
hazzards. Every possible precaution will be taken for the safety of employees
during the hours of employment.
Article 14 (continued)
Working Conditions/Joint Safety Committee
Every effort will be made to keep current with a satisfactory cleaning program
for lighting fixtures with prompt replacement of defective lamps.
All safety and health standards will conform to the Occupational Safety and
Health Act as administered by the U.S. Department of Labor through the (Williams
Steiger Act, Section 19) or Postal Standards, whichever is more stringent.
Periodic surveys will be conducted by Safety Technicians to determine if noise,
dust, heat and air conditioning levels conform to acceptable safety standards.
Results of such surveys shall be given to the NALC.
A Joint Labor Management Safety and Health Committee shall be established as
provided for in Article 14 of the National Agreement. The President of the NALC
or the designee(s) will serve as committee member(s). The NALC and the Employer
endorse and actively support the rules and regulations for promoting safety and
health. Meetings of the Committee will be held on official time at least
quarterly. Special meetings of the Safety and Health Committee may be requested
by either party subject to approval of the Chairperson.
Member(s) of the Letter Carrier Craft will be furnished to the Safety and Health
Committee. More may be designated by mutual consent in accordance with the
National Agreement. All responses to Agenda Items of the Safety and Health
Committee meetings are to be sent to the President of NALC and also posted on
all delivery unit bulletin boards.
The NALC Safety and Health Representative on the Safety and Health Committee
will be permitted free access to any area in which unsafe or unsanitary
conditions have been reported. This will be done on the clock. No loss, no gain
when accompanied by a supervisor.
Safety Talks
Regular scheduled Safety Talks will be held by unit supervisors for all Carriers
on the clock, at least once a week.
Vehicle Safety Checks
All employees who drive vehicles will be required each day to make a safety
check of their vehicle.
Article 14 (continued)
Vehicle Conditions
No vehicle will be placed in service or permitted to be operated unless it is in
a safe condition. All government vehicles will meet the Safety and Inspection
Standards established by the United States Postal Service. No employee will be
required to work with unsafe equipment.
Under no circumstances will any Carrier be required to drive an unsafe vehicle.
Carriers will be responsible for tagging vehicles for defects. Prompt repair
will be made to deficient parts and each newly repaired vehicle must be
carefully examined to ascertain it’s complete safety. The designated supervisor
will be responsible in seeing that the repairs are made.
Assignment of Vehicles
Assignment of vehicles to Letter Carriers will be by seniority within the
Station or Garage to the extent possible.
Hand Trucks
Hand trucks where available will be supplied upon request.
Cleaning Vehicles
Postal vehicles will be cleaned inside and outside every thirty [30] days and
more frequently if necessary.
Accident Kits
All government vehicles and Carriers with driving agreements will be issued
accident kits.
Appeal Rights
Carriers will be informed of their appeal rights when notified of an adverse
decision of the safe driver award committee, in compliance with ELM 842.
Article 14 (continued)
Emergency Medical Treatment
The names of Doctors and Medical Facilities where a Carrier can report in the
event of an accident, injury or dog bite will be posted in a prominent place in
all Stations, Branches and Garages. The employee will go to the nearest
available doctor or medical facility when needing emergency treatment.
Injured On Duty Treatment
(Non-Scheduled Day)
When an employee is injured on duty and is scheduled for treatment or
examination on their drop day, they will arrange with the Post Office Medical
Unit or other Medical facilities for another date.
Injuries On The Job
Management will provide any employee claiming an on the job injury with a CA-1
and any other pertinent or necessary forms. Management will also be responsible
for informing the employee of their rights under the law and to give the
employee the receipt portion of the CA-1 immediately following the completion of
the form. Anyone who has stopped working as a result of a traumatic injury will
be carried “CONTINUATION OF PAY (COP)”, if the employee has requested COP in
accordance with ELM 541.2K.
Article 16
Discipline
Employee(s) must be informed of their right to file a grievance including time
limits under the terms of Article 15 of the National Agreement when discipline
is issued.
No disciplinary action will be taken against an employee that was initiated by
an unsubstantiated customer complaint.
Article 16 (continued)
Inspection Of OPF/Disciplinary Record
An employee will, upon request, have the right to inspect their Official
Personnel Folder (OFP).
The records of a disciplinary action against an employee shall not be considered
in any subsequent disciplinary action if there has been no disciplinary action
initiated against the employee for a period of two [2] years.
Upon the employee’s written request, any disciplinary notice or decision letter
will be removed from the employee’s official personnel folder after two years if
there has been no disciplinary action initiated against the employee in that two
[2] year period in accordance with Article 16, Section 10 of the National
Agreement.
Article 17
Representation
Officers and other official representatives of the NALC will be recognized by
management at all levels for the purpose of liaison between NALC and management
and to expedite the processing of grievances and to permit amicable solutions to
problems at the point where they first develop. A list of all Officers and
Representatives will be furnished to the Postmaster by the NALC. The lists will
include the employee’s name, job title, assignment, tour and home address.
The Postmaster or designee will furnish a list of those officials whom they have
named as their designees.
The President or designee, including Stewards of the NALC, after showing proper
identification, shall be afforded recognition by management at all
Stations/Branches and/or other facility in the Philadelphia Post Office.
The NALC, after being granted permission from management, will be permitted to
make announcements of general interest to their members on the P.A. System.
Article 17 (continued)
Representation
Stewards and supervisors will cooperate to the fullest extent in furthering the
good of the service and the employee’s welfare by keeping employees currently
informed of their rights and any change in policy or procedure by the method of
periodic discussions on the workroom floor. Management agrees that in situations
where discipline could result from a meeting between the supervisor and
employee, a request for a Steward will not be unreasonably denied.
Labor Management (Area Meetings)
Area Meetings with the Shop Stewards are to be held quarterly for the purpose of
discussing working conditions with the intention of maintaining and improving
good Labor Management Relations in the Philadelphia Post Office.
2nd Quarter In January First Quarter
2nd Week in May Second Quarter
1st Week In September Third Quarter
1st Week in November Fourth Quarter
All NALC Shop Stewards on their regular scheduled day will be permitted to
attend on the clock not to include overtime. Agendas will be submitted seven [7]
calendar days in advance of the Meeting. Additional items will be discussed at
the end of the Meeting.
Labor Management Meeting
The NALC will be entitled to one [1] representative on the clock of its own
choosing at Local Labor Management Meetings provided time spent in meeting is
part of employees regular scheduled work day. The total number of
representatives of the Union will be limited to ten [10]. Additional
representatives by mutual agreement; such request will not be unreasonably
denied.
Article 17 (continued)
Dates Of Meetings
1st Monday in February 1st Quarter
1st Monday in May 2nd Quarter
3rd Thursday In September 3rd Quarter
4th Monday in November 4th Quarter & Christmas
Labor Management Meeting Agenda
It is agreed that agenda items for discussion at the meetings will be exchanged.
Items not placed on such agenda will be discussed after completion of all items
on the agenda. The agenda is due on the following dates:
Last Monday in January
Last Monday in April
2nd Thursday in September
3rd Monday in November
Cafeteria, Social & Recreation Committee
The Cafeteria, Social and Recreation Committee will meet once a month. The NALC
will designate one [1] member to act on behalf of the Union.
Vending Machines
A liberal policy will be followed with regard to installation of vending
machines consistent with good business practices, service requirements (such as
space availability) and concurrence of any Committee entitled to a vote in these
matters.
Stewards Pins
All Branch 157 Shop Stewards will be permitted to wear a pin approved by
management designating them as National Association of Letter Carriers
Representatives.
Article 17 (continued)
Official Notices
When deemed necessary by the supervisor in charge, official printed notices will
be announced and explained. Following the announcement of such notices, they
will be posted upon the appropriate bulletin boards.
Bulletin Boards
The NALC will be provided with at least one [1] glass enclosed bulletin board of
a suitable size with a lock and two keys for said lock in all Stations/Garages.
Article 20
The Assignment Of Employee Parking Spaces (Item 19)
Parking spaces which are available for use will be distributed on a seniority
basis.
Management will continue to strive to obtain the necessary parking spaces at all
local facilities.
The parking committee will meet when mutually agreed to discuss available sites
for employee parking.
Parking facilities will be one of the goals of the Philadelphia Post Office for
it’s employees. Progress reports regarding this objective must be submitted at
every Labor Management Meeting.
It is agreed that a committee consisting of two [2] Management Representatives
and two [2] NALC Representatives will discuss improvement of parking conditions
and make recommendations subject to management approval.
Article 35
Employee Assistance Program
The parties recognize their obligation under Article 35 of the Collective
Bargaining Agreement and will continue their efforts.
Article 41
Posting New Positions (Item 21)
Letter Carriers will be given the opportunity to bid on all vacant or new
positions for which they may qualify and are eligible.
Carriers desiring to apply for a posted a Route, Utility, Reserve, Router or any
other position that in the future is determined to be a bid position in the
Letter Carrier Craft will submit their bid in writing to a supervisor in charge
of the Station during the period in which the notice is posted and such bids
will be examined after the specified period of posting in the presence of a
Branch 157 Shop Steward. The senior bidder will be assigned to the Route,
Utility, Reserve, Router or other position. The notice of awarding of the bid
will show the seniority date of the successful bidder for the Station involved.
The employee will submit a written request that they be notified of any
vacancies that occur while the employee is on vacation. The supervisor in charge
of the Station will notify all Carriers who are on light duty or sick leave of
any vacancy that occurs.
All vacancies will be posted for bid for a maximum of ten [10] calendar days.
Employees expecting to be absent for an extended period of time will request
that all vacancy advertisements for which they are eligible be mailed to the
address they leave with personnel.
When any advertised vacancy is filled, an order will be issued showing the name
of the successful bidder, their seniority date and the advertisement number.
Such order will be distributed and posted in every order book and appropriate
bulletin board.
Posting Utility/Reserve (Float) Vacancies
All Utility/Reserve (Float) vacancies are to be posted, bid and assigned in the
same manner as other route vacancies and assignments will be determined by city
seniority within the Station. All provisions under route assignments will
prevail for Utility/Reserve (Float) assignments.
One Day Mail Count
When a supervisor desires to determine the efficiency of a Carrier in the
Office, he shall make a one day mail count. In such cases, Form 838 will be used
to record all office work and time items. The Carrier will be given one day
advance notification that the mail will be counted the next day by the
supervisor.
Article 41 (continued)
Route Inspection
It is mutually understood that Handbook M-39 - M-41 and other appropriate
manuals will be strictly adhered to.
The NALC will be notified as soon as possible when a Station or Stations are to
be tested.
It is agreed any comments the Route Examiner makes on PS Form 3999, “Inspection
of Letter Carrier Route”, or attachments will be discussed with the Carrier and
the supervisor on the day of inspection. In the event a meeting does not take
place on that day, a copy of the PS Form 3999 and attachments will be given to
the Carrier. Should circumstances necessitate additional time, it shall be
granted and the test will remain valid provided the Shop Steward and Carrier are
given the reasons with a specific time and date not to exceed 48 hours.
A completed copy of the front of Form 1840 - reflecting totals and averages from
Forms 1838, day of inspection data, Route Examiner’s comments and analysis of
office work functions and actual time recordings - will be furnished the Carrier
at least one [1] day in advance of consultation. Completed copies of Form 1838
will be given to the Carrier at least [5] calendar days prior to consultation.
Route adjustments must be placed into effect within fifty-two [52] calendar days
of the completion of the mail count and no major scheme changes should be made
between the period November 15 and January 1. Exceptions must be approved by the
Postmaster. The NALC will be notified promptly of any exception(s) granted.
Special Inspections
When a Carrier requests a special inspection and management agrees it is
warranted, management will take prompt action to make necessary arrangements for
the count and inspection in accordance with M-39.
The Carrier’s 1571 can be reviewed by the Carrier, noting action taken by
supervisor. Copy furnished to Carrier upon their request.
Article 41 (continued)
Eliminating Routes
When it is proposed to eliminate a route or routes in a Station, the Station
will be adjusted where possible so that the route or routes to be eliminated may
be those held by the junior regulars.
Local Conditions
Management will continue to supply the NALC with the same notices and
communications as at present.
The President of Branch 157, NALC will be given monthly statements by the
Postmaster or their designee listing all personnel actions taken within the
previous month concerning members of their respective crafts showing names and
all other pertinent information. Such information will include, but not limited
to, such subjects as hiring, transfer, termination, promotion, retirements, etc.
The NALC will be notified of any contemplated changes in authorized complements
in all categories of employment. This includes the hiring and termination of all
employees.
The NALC will be notified at least two weeks, if possible, prior to any New
Employee Training (NET) and will provided with ample time to address such new
employee(s).
A list of all authorized positions by section or station will be furnished to
the NALC.
All available training opportunities will be posted.
When the Postal Service opens the Postal Examination, management will notify the
NALC.
Employees requesting promotion and/or reassignment to another craft will be
given an opportunity to take the appropriate examination if necessary. Upon
passing the examination, the employee will be given consideration before any
non-postal employee.
Article 41 (continued)
Details
Management will supply a list of all detailed Letter Carriers to the Union,
stating the reason why the employee is detailed. There will be no details unless
for light duty or until review and discussion with the NALC, unless in
emergency, excluding supervisor details.
Reassignment (Item 18)
In the event it is determined the manpower needs of a Station exceeds the
staffing requirements, every effort will be made to retain the regular Carriers.
Flexible hours will be reduced first wherever possible. All reassignments will
be based on City seniority.
Excess Carriers (Item 18)
Carriers excessed from a Station will be returned to that Station when a
residual vacancy occurs, provided they submit a bid for a vacancy. Failure to
bid for the first available vacancy will end such retreat right. Carriers
excessed from a Station will be notified in advance of all existing vacancies in
other Stations; they will have their choice according to City seniority. Every
effort will be made to assign excessed Carriers to the Stations of their choice.
Consolidation Of Offices
In the event of a change, such as but not limited to, the combining of two or
more Stations or the splitting of a Station, the NALC, Management and the
Carriers affected will review and discuss the changes and the method of posting
and bidding of all routes affected by the changes
Duties of Reserve (Float) Carriers Or Unassigned Regulars
Reserve/Float or Unassigned Letter Carriers will opt for either daily work
assignments or craft duty assignments of anticipated duration of five [5] days
or more (holddowns), using City Wide seniority.
Upon reporting for duty, each Carrier will select available daily (one day) open
full time assignments.
Article 41 (continued)
Duties of Reserve (Float) Carriers Or Unassigned Regulars
If after the selection process has taken place another daily full time
assignment becomes available, which was not known at the time of previous
selection, no further bidding will take place, except that if a regular Carrier
is called in on his non-scheduled day after the selections have been made and
bumps the reserve or utility, then the person bumped may select from the then
available full-time assignments. If no full-time assignment is available, they
will bump the junior PTF with a full-time holddown assignment.
Part-Time Flexibles Seniority Section 2.B.4
Part-Time Flexible Employees may use their seniority to bid for their vacation
period and for available temporary assignments of five or more days. As
successful bidders, they assume the hours of duty and the schedule of work days
of the full time Carrier whose assignment is being covered. PTF’s are subject to
bumping procedures as established under Article 41 2B5 (refer to regular working
his non-scheduled day).
PTF Work Week
PTF’s may be scheduled less than eight [8] hours per service day and less than
forty [40] hours in a service week.
PTF Work Hours
Part-time flexible hours (straight time and/or overtime hours) will be assigned
as equitable as possible during a pay period.
Work hours for part-time flexibles will be made available to the Steward as
requested.
PTF Weekend Schedules
Weekend schedules for part-time flexible employees will be posted to the maximum
extent possible no later than Wednesday in the service week preceding the
service week in which the weekend falls.
Article 41 (continued)
Relay Boxes
Relay Boxes shall be utilized to the maximum extent possible. Every effort shall
be made to eliminate the use of LCB’s for the purpose of storing relays.
Working Off The Clock
No employee will be permitted to perform any duties unless they are on official
time. No supervisor will permit any employee to work off the clock. If the
supervisor is notified and fails to take action, the matter will be reported to
higher level Management.
Transportation Between Units
All work and travel between work units, when such work is authorized during an
employee’s day, will be done on the clock.
Office Conditions
Management will request air conditioning in all postal facilities. Quarterly
progress reports will be furnished to the NALC.
Every effort will be made to balance air conditioning at a comfortable
temperature in all work areas.
In compliance with Federal Regulations, ample comfort facilities must be readily
available wherever workers are employed.
There will be an ample supply of benches, stools and/or chairs for employee
swing and locker rooms.
All employees must be provided with a clean locker with ample room for work
clothes and year round outdoor clothes.
All employees must be provided with adequate locker and swing room space and
toilet facilities, in compliance with Federal Regulations.
Upon completion of orientation, all newly hired personnel will be assigned
lockers.
Article 41 (continued)
Office Conditions
Management will be responsible for the maintenance and cleanliness of workroom
floors, drinking fountains, swing rooms, lavatories and carrier cases and to
insure adequate light, hear and ventilation in all units.
Employees will not be required to use hampers containing refuse for movement of
mail.
Oiling and general cleanups will be done at such times when there are no
employees in the cleanup area. This type of work must be performed in
coordination between operation and custodial maintenance supervisors and must
not inconvenience or cause discomfort to other working employees. All loading
platforms must be equipped with loading ramps which meet the requirements of the
specific platform involved.
Charity and Bond Drives
It is agreed that employees should participate in Savings Bond and Charity
Drives on a voluntary basis and that their nonparticipation in said drives will
not result in their being penalized in anyway.
Public Address System
The public address (PA) system must be properly designed so that it can be
clearly heard and understood in each location.
The NALC Shop Steward(s) or designee will be permitted to make changes to the
radio station.
Article 41 (continued)
Carrier Breaks
On July 21st of each year, the Union at each Station or Garage will determine
when the two [2], ten [10] minute breaks will be taken. Carriers who work only a
portion or portions of a day will have their “Breaks” implemented on a pro-rata
basis. The pro-rata basis will involve equal segments of two [2] hours each in
the eight [8] hour day.
1. A Carrier working [2] hours is entitled to a [5] minute break.
2. A Carrier working [4] hours is entitled to a [10] minute break.
3. A Carrier working [6] hours is entitled to one [10] minute break and one [5]
minute break.
4. A Carrier working [8] hours is entitled to two [10] minute breaks
Carriers who required to work past their scheduled leaving time may at their
option elect to take their break in the office, with agreement from Local
Management.
Abolishment of Full Time Letter Carrier Assignments
Section 41
When a letter carrier route or full time duty assignment, other than the letter
carrier route(s) or full time duty assignment(s) of the junior employee(s) is
abolished at a delivery unit as a result of but not limited to, route
adjustments, highway, housing projects, all routes and full time duty
assignments at that unit held by letter carriers who are junior to the
carrier(s) whose route(s) or full time duty assignment(s) was abolished shall be
posted for bid in accordance with the posting procedures in this Article.
Pursuant to Article 30 of the National Agreement, the Articles negotiated at the
Local Level and those Articles brought forth from previous Local Memorandums of
Understanding constitute the entire Agreement between Branch 157, National
Association of Letter Carriers and the Philadelphia Post Office.
James J. Gallagher, Postmaster Jack Geoghegan, President
Philadelphia, Post Office Keystone Branch 157, Philadelphia, PA
Philadelphia, PA National Association of Letter Carriers
November 1, 2002 November 1, 2002
Notes
Notes