Episode 181: Let's get into 6-day counts

From A to Arbitration

This episode delves into the complexities of 6-day counts, providing a comprehensive analysis of several arbitration cases to equip listeners with the knowledge to effectively handle these situations. Corey begins with listener shout-outs, expressing gratitude for their support and highlighting the contributions of various members and branches. He then corrects a previous shout-out and discusses a listener's negative reaction to the GoFundMe campaign for Corey.

The core of the episode involves a detailed review of several arbitration cases concerning route adjustments and inspections. Corey meticulously reads excerpts from these decisions, emphasizing recurring themes and providing valuable insights for stewards and advocates. Key areas of focus include: management's frequent failure to adhere to established procedures (e.g., providing necessary information to carriers and the union in a timely manner), the importance of demonstrating harm caused by improper route adjustments, and the utilization of work hour workload reports to illustrate overburdened routes. Corey emphasizes the need for strong language (such as "cease and desist") in grievance settlements and highlights the importance of ensuring arbitrators understand the impact of management's actions on carriers' working conditions and well-being. Specific attention is given to how the arbitrators addressed the issue of carrier input, management's attempts to use signatures on forms as proof of agreement, and the inclusion of CCAs in remedy calculations.

Corey discusses several instances of management misconduct, including the imposition of unrealistic case time limits, the use of scanner data to target carriers for discipline, and the practice of taking unauthorized photographs of carriers' cases. He provides a detailed grievance template for addressing the issue of management taking pictures of carriers' cases, along with relevant contract provisions, contentions, and sample b team decisions. He stresses the importance of challenging management's use of technology for surveillance and disciplinary actions, emphasizing the need to rely on evidence-based arguments and to avoid being intimidated or manipulated.

The episode concludes with an overview of resources for handling 6-day counts, including promotion of the NALC Branch 458 podcast and John Murphy's YouTube videos. Corey reiterates the importance of preparation and encourages members to become well-versed in the relevant regulations and procedures. He emphasizes the need to aggressively challenge management's actions during 6-day counts and to utilize those situations to secure significant monetary remedies for carriers. He concludes by announcing future episodes focused on 6-day counts and emphasizing his commitment to educating and empowering letter carriers.

Cites: https://fromatoarbitration.com/episodes-101-200/

https://fromatoarbitration.com/