Your Rights at Work

When Problems Arise – Talk to Your Building Representative
If you think the employer has violated your rights, or you have questions about work, talk with your Building Representative. If the matter is a grievance, you will be referred to the appropriate union representative for further assistance. You have the right to file a grievance seeking justice when your employer violates your contractual rights. The system used to process a grievance is referred to as the “grievance procedure." Read your contract to find out what the exact procedure and timelines are for your workplace. If you and your Building Representative determine that a contract violation has occurred, together you will fill out a “grievance form.” If the employer refuses to settle the grievance, the Local may argue your case before an impartial arbitrator who will make a final ruling. Arbitrators have the power to order an employer to correct the situation.

Remember: grievance procedures have strict time limits. File promptly. Read your contract.

Not all work place complaints are grievances. Winning a grievance depends on the facts and evidence the Union can collect. Working closely with your grievance (or TRACE) representative will improve your chances of success.

Before going to your grievance representative with a problem, collect your facts and evidence. Put the material in order by date. Check your contract and point out the provisions you believe may apply. Make a list of witnesses that your union should speak with and make a brief note as to what facts each witness can provide. Above all, do not wait until the last minute to file your grievance. Additional facts can always be gathered later. Contrary to popular belief, most grievances are about contract violations not discipline.

If you think the employer has violated your rights, or you have questions about work, talk with your Building Representative. If the matter is a grievance, you will be referred to the appropriate union representative for further assistance. You have the right to file a grievance seeking justice when your employer violates your contractual rights. The system used to process a grievance is referred to as the “grievance procedure." Read your contract to find out what the exact procedure and timelines are for your workplace. If you and your Building Representative determine that a contract violation has occurred, together you will fill out a “grievance form.” If the employer refuses to settle the grievance, the Local may argue your case before an impartial arbitrator who will make a final ruling. Arbitrators have the power to order an employer to correct the situation.