Zone 2 Report

By Joe Hansen, Griever

On May 22, 2003 I officially became Grievance Committeeman for the Finishing Mill. The enormous changes made have been very stressful for all of us. I have been working with the Assistant Grievers on the new lines of progression (LOP’s) and job incumbencies for all the operating units in the Finishing Mill. The structure of the LOP’s were agreed to as part of our new labor agreement. The process and review to move more jobs up from one pay grade to another takes mutual agreement from the management involved. Naturally, our Union agrees to move up all the various jobs involved, unfortunately the company doesn’t always agree. The Pickle Line had many employees who took the option of TAP (Transition Assistance Program) and left. The company has finally posted openings for the Finishing Department. When these new individuals arrive to the Finishing Department, more people will be available for the needed training required to move up to the higher pay grades. This should also remedy the problem of 12-hour work schedules that Pickler employees have tolerated for months! Many of these people are totally stressed out and tired...and simply would like more time off to be with their families.

           Approximately 135 people left various parts of the Finishing Department during the recent TAP period. Part of our new labor agreement is the new pay grades. Employees are no longer incumbent to a job, they are now incumbent to a pay grade. Jobs that are assigned inside a pay grade can now be assigned to anyone. Remember, we are only incumbent to the pay grade...not the job!

I plan, in the near future, when things calm down, to be visiting at least one area each week. I’ve been looking forward to these visits, and the opportunity to meet many of you.

As you know, the company recently sent all of us their new Conduct Code and Attendance Policy. Until this disputed issue can be worked out mutually, don’t put yourselves in a bad situation. We have many issues with merit that we will be meeting on and striving for change in the future with ISG. The bargaining process never ends...it may be slowed by management’s efforts, but on my part as your elected representative, I will consistently strive for progress!

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