Consequences
For every action there is some sort of consequence to that action. And if you do not like the consequence to that action, then do not do it! Think about the consequences that could occur by you working off the clock!
Recently, I along with the POOM gave a stand-up talk in one of the stations that we both represent about working off the clock and that it was not permitted by either the union or management. We told the carriers working off the clock does not help the union, management, yourself, or your co-workers.
Both sides want to get a fair evaluation of the mail volume and the work performed by you the letter carrier daily. With this new TIAREAP process to evaluate routes using your scanner it is very important that you work only when you are on the clock. By working off the clock it means anything that you do before swapping your scanner to your ID badge. This includes but not limited to getting your FSS mail, getting your DPS mail, cleaning your work area, getting rubber bands, getting your satchel, getting your rain gear out of your locker, arranging your SPR’s & parcels, performing any other letter carrier function that should be done on the clock.
You might think that you are getting over on management by doing these functions while working off the clock when the only person that you are getting over on is yourself. Yes, local management looks the other way, management does not tell you to stop working off the clock because it helps their productivity numbers. You think management is your friend because they do not sayanything while you work off the clock. But, in reality they will not help you if something happens!
So, what could possibly happen when working off the clock? Well recently I received a phone call from a carrier that injured their back in the office getting their DPS mail. The carrier went over to the supervisor and told him that they injured their back and wanted medical attention and compensation forms. The carrier goes on and on how the supervisor will not give them compensation forms for the injury. They go on to tell me that when they went to the supervisor for the forms this is what transpired. They said the first thing the supervisor stated was “How could you do that it is not 8am yet; you are not on the clock.” “Did this happen at home, and you are coming to work injured and trying to claim an on-the-job injury?” The carrier said to the supervisor, “You know that I come in early every day and get my DPS in order before I start”. The supervisor goes on to say that he never saw this carrier working off the clock. Yes, the carrier did get the compensation forms, but this same supervisor will controvert the claim. If management’s argument is accepted by the Dept. of Workers Compensation, that the carrier was injured off the clock, the carrier will have to use their own sick leave if they have any and their own personal health insurance for an injury that they sustained while performing work! I know everyone reading this article who works off the clock will say to themselves, this will never happen to me, until it does! Just like this person told me. Remember, there always is a consequence to an action. So please do not work off the clock; you only jeopardize yourself, your family and your co-workers!
I would like to wish all my brothers and sisters and their families a Happy Thanksgiving, Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah, Happy Kwanzaa and Happy whatever else you celebrate, along with a Happy and Healthy New Year!
