March 30, 2020 COVID-19 Update

As COVID-19 continues to sweep our nation, new questions are being asked in regards to the actions in place to ensure we have the safest work place possible.

In response to this unprecedented pandemic, we have reached out to our Congressman as well as the Company to express our position on the current situation in our Plant.

We have asked that any time management receives a report of a positive case on someone who has been in our facility, the Company is to IMMEDIATELY notify us (in accordance with HIPPA laws) so we may discuss the plan to sterilize any exposed areas and take necessary actions to protect those in the immediate work area.

We have taken the position that any time management directs an Employee to go home or self-quarantine, the Company should be responsible to pay the Employee all reasonable lost-time. If the Employee does test positive for the virus, the compensation should be converted to S&A and the seven-day waiting period should be waived. If the Employee tests negative, they should be allowed to return to work with no loss in earnings.

We have asked the Company that Employees who fall into the high-risk category and wish to self-quarantine, be granted FMLA or other appropriate leave.

Furthermore, the devastation of COVID-19 has altered our lives and our industry. Steel orders are decreasing and some delivery dates are being pushed back or cancelled. In response to this, the Company has informed us of their intention to change or modify schedules based on business and production needs. They also will be closely monitoring and restricting overtime, where necessary, in an effort to further reduce their operating costs. We are not in agreement with these decisions. We contend, the Company’s most valuable asset is the people. Adding additional crews and work days in a challenging climate will only add further hazards to our jobs. We will continue to encourage the Company to do what is best for the people during this global crisis.

In the meantime, please continue to take all necessary precautions to protect your personal health by practicing proper handwashing and social distancing. Collectively, we must be diligent in preserving what is truly important, each other.

In Solidarity,
Pete Trinidad Sr. 
USW Local 6787 President