CUPE Local 5167 Membership,
As we are all painfully aware, recent shootings in the downtown core have raised serious concerns. The Union has received communications from Members, both individually and in groups, sharing their concerns about safety in the workplace.
We recognize that each Member may experience and be impacted by these events differently. We also recognize that this situation has created ongoing workplace concerns. Members are encouraged to connect with the Employee Assistance Program for support in managing their health and well-being.
The Union is following up with the Employer regarding concerns raised by Employees about delays in reporting through the RAVE system, and is requesting an explanation as to why Employees have not yet been provided with an opportunity for a debrief. The Union is also requesting that a debrief be provided with Union support.
As Employees, you have the right to document and share your concerns by email with your management team. We do not recommend sending group communications. Each Employee should send their own communication in their own words. Members may wish to express that they want a debrief on what occurred and what steps the Employer will take to ensure a safe workplace.
Members are also encouraged to reach out to their CUPE Local 5167 JHSC Worker Representatives. These representatives bring worker concerns forward to the Joint Health and Safety Committee for further discussion, dialogue, and consideration.
The 21-day recommendation process allows workers and the Joint Health and Safety Committee to submit recommendations to management. Under the Occupational Health and Safety Act, management has 21 days to respond. Ann Jenkins, secondvp@cupe5167.org, can assist committees with this process.
Employees working in City of Hamilton workplaces, including Robert Thomson, 110 King Street West, and nearby locations, may also request in writing that the Employer contact Hamilton Police to complete a Police Safety Assessment of their work location. Employees should also request that, once completed, the report be provided to all staff at that location.
Each workplace should have a Health and Safety Risk Assessment and a Workplace Violence Risk Assessment. These assessments are intended to proactively identify workplace hazards.
Once these assessments are completed, they must go before the JHSC for review and approval. These assessments should also be reviewed following any health and safety event to ensure the process is effective and to identify what can be implemented to create and maintain a safer workplace.
Please ensure that Ann Jenkins, secondvp@cupe5167.org, receives copies of all issues sent to the Health and Safety Committee, including suggestions and 21-day recommendations.
Please continue to send copies of communications from the Employer regarding any related matter to Ann on an ongoing basis.
In solidarity,
Jason Lucas
President, CUPE Local 5167
