What are the benefits of being in the union?

Once the United Steelworkers of America Local 1-207 becomes your certified union, we can then work together to reach our first collective agreement (or contract).

The collective bargaining process will give you direct input into your workplace.  A collective agreement is a written, legally binding contract between an employer and their employees.  The rights of the workers, their union and management are all written into the collective agreement.  This agreement also establishes a process for settling disputes and grievances.

Here are some examples of what can be negotiated into a collective agreement with their employer:

• Hours of work
• Seniority and job security
• Job classifications
• Job postings
• Wages and shift premiums
• Overtime conditions and rates
• Basic benefits (medical, dental, wage indemnity, vision care, pharmacare, etc.)
• Health and safety provisions
• Holidays and vacation time
• Leaves of absence
• Pensions
• Apprenticeships

Perhaps the single biggest benefit you get as a member of the union is a real voice in the workplace.  The employer can no longer arbitrarily ignore your concerns - they must now listen to you and take action on your concerns.  If they don't, there is a process to follow to settle your differences which is legally binding.

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