Seasonal Discipline

This is an article for local union Letter Carriers concerning their rights

Seasonal Discipline

By Martin Spielman

Now that summer is nearing its end the time has come for another round of “gotchas”. It seems that during the summer, we’re all needed because of prime-time coverage but when prime-time is over management suddenly decides its time to review 3972’s and start issuing attendance discipline.  Now I’m not talking about all managers, because there are actually some good ones out there. I’m talking about the same old managers who are using the same old ideas coming from the same old pencil pushers at district who will do anything to make a few numbers. We’re talking about the same managers who believe that DOIS is some kind of holy relic that overrules all types of good sense.  So what is a Letter Carrier to do?  

1. First, don’t waste your sick leave. It’s a simple, but important concept. Don’t be like a manager that I know of

and use your sick leave to go fishing.

2. Check and see if you qualify for FMLA

3. When management brings you in for a pre-disciplinary interview (PDI) make sure you ask for your Steward to be

present. Make no statements not dealing with the issue at hand, in other words beware of fishing expeditions.

4. Speak to your Steward about your options.

5. Notify your Steward ASAP if you are disciplined.

6. Provide a complete written statement to your Steward Although this list may not cover every aspect of seasonal discipline it gives a general overview of how to handle an issue that may be coming to your office soon.