Grievance Process

Filing a grievance through the PAGE union is a structured process designed to ensure that your concerns are addressed in a timely and fair manner. This is a general flow of how to handle a grievance. Contact a steward to help you through this process, there are specific deadlines that are required in the CBA.

DO NOT attempt to complete this process alone!

Here are the steps your steward will help you follow:

1. Identify the Issue

Understand the Problem:

Determine whether the issue violates the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), workplace policies, or relevant laws. Grievances typically involve issues such as unfair treatment, contract violations, workplace safety concerns, or discrimination.

Document the Incident:

Gather all relevant information, including dates, times, locations, and any communications related to the issue. Collect any supporting documents, such as emails, reports, or witness statements.

2. Informal Resolution

Speak with Your Supervisor:

Before filing a formal grievance, attempt to resolve the issue informally by discussing it with your immediate supervisor or manager. Sometimes, issues can be resolved without further action.

Request Union Representation:

If you are uncomfortable approaching your supervisor alone, request that a union steward or representative accompany you to this discussion.

3. Contact a Union Steward

Notify Your Steward:

If the issue is not resolved informally, contact your union steward as soon as possible. The steward will help you assess the situation, advise you on the grievance process, and assist in filing the grievance.

Discuss the Case:

Provide your steward with all the information you have gathered. They will help you determine whether the issue qualifies as a grievance under the CBA.

4. File the Grievance

Complete the Grievance Form:

Your steward will help you complete the official grievance form, detailing the nature of the complaint, the specific contract provisions violated, and the desired remedy or resolution.

Submit the Grievance:

The completed form must be submitted to your supervisor or the appropriate management representative, as specified in the CBA. Keep a copy for your records.

5. Management Review

Initial Response:

After receiving the grievance, management will typically have a set period (as defined by the CBA) to respond. This might involve a meeting with you, your steward, and management to discuss the issue.

First-Level Decision:

Management will issue a decision based on their review of the grievance. This decision will be communicated to you and the union.

6. Escalation (If Necessary)

Appeal the Decision:

If you are not satisfied with the first-level decision, you can appeal to the next level of management or a designated grievance committee. Your steward will guide you through this process, which may involve additional meetings and negotiations.

Arbitration:

If the grievance is not resolved through internal appeals, the union may choose to take the issue to arbitration. This involves presenting the case before an independent arbitrator who will make a binding decision. The union will typically cover the cost of arbitration, and your steward will represent you throughout the process.

7. Final Resolution

Outcome:

The grievance process concludes with a final decision, whether through management, a grievance committee, or arbitration. The outcome may involve corrective action, compensation, policy changes, or other remedies.

Follow-Up:

Ensure that the agreed-upon resolution is implemented. If the resolution is not honored, notify your steward immediately so the union can take further action if needed.

8. Record-Keeping

Maintain Documentation:

Keep copies of all grievance-related documents, including the original grievance form, management responses, and any correspondence. This record is important for any future reference or follow-up actions.

9. Confidentiality

Respect Privacy:

The grievance process should be kept confidential to protect your privacy and the integrity of the process. Discuss the issue only with those directly involved, such as your steward, union representatives, and necessary management personnel.

10. Continuous Support

Ongoing Union Support:

Throughout the process, your union will provide guidance, representation, and support to ensure your rights are protected and the grievance is handled effectively.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your grievance is handled professionally and efficiently, with the full support of PAGE behind you.