UFCW FAQ
What is a union?
A union is an organization of employees seeking a legally-binding union contract with their employer. By joining together, workers are able to leverage their work against the company’s profits in order to ensure protections such as fair pay, workplace safety, affordable health care, and other important guarantees from their employer.
What is a union contract?
A union contract (also called a collective bargaining agreement) is a legal agreement in writing between the UFCW Local 1059, acting as the bargaining agent for workers, and an employer. It traditionally covers wages, hours, working conditions, benefits, the rights of workers, and procedures to be followed in settling disputes and grievances. A union contract is the final result of negotiations between the Union Negotiating Committee, which includes union staff and workers at the employer, and the company.
What does “UFCW” mean?
UFCW stands for United Food and Commercial Workers, but that’s just the beginning of the various fields of work for our members. UFCW members are employed in diverse sectors of the economy. We are the baggers, clerks, meat cutters, and cashiers at your local supermarket. We help fill your order in the pharmacy and the dispensary. UFCW members work in food processing plants, warehouses, and clerical settings. We help care for the elderly, take care of those in need of assisted living, and ensure patients have the blood necessary for medical procedures.
How does a union workplace differ from a non-union workplace?
Without a union contract, the employer makes all the rules. Management may say they are listening to their workers, but, at the end of the day, they are the ones making decisions and they can change their mind at any time. With a union contract, workers are involved in the decision-making process, from being a part of the negotiation process to having a vote on the final agreement. The Union has a legal obligation to represent the voice of workers and provide assistance in resolving problems with management when they arise in the workplace.
How does the Member Log-in work?
Members will need a cell phone number on file with our office in order to log in. Contact our office at 614.237.761 to provide your cell phone number and you will be able to log on in a matter of minutes. In the Member Log-in area, members can find contact information for their Union Representative, review important documents such as their union contract and worksite shop card as well as update contact information. Click on “Dashboard” and scroll down for access to union member discounts, event registration, and other great features!
What should I do if my employer wants to talk about a matter that could lead to discipline?
Union workers have a legal right to union representation from a steward or Union Representative, whichever is available. This representation does not include a non-steward coworker because they do not have the training to provide that representation. This right to representation is called your Weingarten Right. Request union representation immediately. If representation cannot be provided, you should remain in the meeting but remain silent until representation can be provided.
What if my employer violates my union contract?
A violation of your union contract may be cause for a grievance. If you think you have a grievance, it should be reported immediately to your Union Representative, including all facts related to your case so it can be investigated and resolved as soon as possible.
What if I leave my employer or take a leave of absence?
You should contact the Local 1059 Office promptly if you: 1) Quit, get laid off, terminated, or take any approved leave of absence (e.g., military, personal, or medical leave) AND 2) Have not worked in one or more calendar months. If you are fully paid on your membership and initiation fee, you will be issued a withdrawal card–at no cost–upon request. Withdrawal cards are valid with any UFCW local and do not expire. Failure to obtain a withdrawal card could result in paying an initiation fee if you return to work.
What if I am injured on the job?
It is your responsibility to file for Workers’ Compensation benefits with your employer or the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation. To protect your rights, you should do the following: Report the injury, seek medical treatment, fill out claim forms, file a claim. While not required by law, company rules require you to report injuries to management. An accident report could be used later to help prove your claim. Do not delay reporting your injury. Insist that your supervisor complete the necessary forms.
