This episode is a passionate and lengthy discussion centered on the escalating issue of heat-related safety concerns for postal workers, and the union’s response (or lack thereof) to management’s apparent disregard for those concerns. Corey expresses deep frustration with the perceived inaction and complacency of some union leaders. He argues that the current leadership is failing to adequately protect letter carriers, highlighting the significance of the falsification of heat training records and the resulting lack of protections for carriers.
Corey focuses on the importance of proactive union action, emphasizing that current leadership’s lack of public engagement and direct challenge to management’s policies is harmful. He cites the need for a “library of arbitration decisions” to provide a strong foundation for future grievances, specifically noting that management often lies and fails to provide sufficient documentation when facing scrutiny. This point highlights his strong belief that the union’s inaction is directly endangering workers.
He details a recent B-team decision that, rather than confronting the potential falsification of heat training, essentially instructed management to “just do the training.” Corey criticizes this approach, arguing it gives management a loophole and essentially allows them to continue their detrimental practices.
Corey also argues that management’s recent actions—specifically, their responses to OSHA complaints and their refusal to provide requested information about heat training—are further evidence of a pattern of deceptive practices. He points out how management’s rhetoric of concern for employee safety contrasts sharply with their concrete actions that put carriers at risk. He suggests that the union’s inaction is likely a deliberate choice by union leadership to avoid confrontation, which he strongly criticizes.
He calls for a nationwide rally to address the working conditions and advocate for carriers, reiterating that a collective voice is critical for bringing about meaningful change. He emphasizes the importance of being prepared for management’s arguments (e.g., claims of inefficiency or concerns about safety). The discussion concludes with a call for increased union engagement, stronger leadership, and the immediate need for a public effort to influence policymakers and advocate for carriers’ safety and working conditions.