We have all heard that safety is everyone’s responsibility. Certainly, that is true at the USPS.
For reference, the Employee Labor Relations Manual (ELM) is recognized by management to be accepted policy. Let’s take the mystery out of those policies and reference the ELM for safety matters. Firstly, our responsibilities included under 814.2:
a. Complying with all OSHA and Postal Service safety and health regulations, procedures, and practices, including the use of approved personal protective equipment.
b. Keeping the work area in a safe and healthful condition through good housekeeping and proper maintenance of property and equipment.
c. Reporting recognized safety hazards and unsafe working conditions immediately. (emphasis added)
d. Performing all duties in a safe manner.
e. Keeping physically and mentally fit to meet the requirements of the job.
f. Reporting to their supervisors immediately any accident or injury in which they are involved, regardless of the extent of injury or damage.
Additionally, we have the right to (ELM 814.1):
b. Report unsafe and unhealthful working conditions using PS Form 1767, Report of Hazard, Unsafe Condition, or Practice.
e. Participate in the safety and health program without fear of:
(1) Restraint,
(2) Interference,
(3) Coercion,
(4) Discrimination, or
(5) Reprisal.
When you feel unsafe by any condition, by the invitation of the USPS, we are asked to share our concerns via PS Form 1767, Report of Hazard, Unsafe Condition, or Practice.
Management’s vision for safety includes (as stated in ELM 811.22):
“The Postal Service will become a leader in occupational safety and health for the federal government and private sector by demonstrating a commitment to integrating safe work practices into all of our services.”(again, emphasis added)
That vision is founded by their guiding principles (ELM 811.23):“The guiding principles of the Postal Service are the following:
- a. People — Employees are our most valued resource. Our employees must be provided a safe and healthful workplace.”
Responsibly, management has adopted the following philosophy (ELM 811.24):
“Management, which encompasses all levels including the first-line supervisor, is responsible and accountable for the prevention of accidents and control of resultant losses…. the line organization is responsible [for]….. maintaining good employee relations, and operating within cost and budget guidelines, SUPERVISORS AND MANAGERS MUST LIKEWISE ACCEPT THEIR SHARE OF RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE SAFETY AND HEALTH OF EMPLOYEES.” (emphasis added).
APWU Local 232 is committed to closing the credibility gap for established USPS safety policy and your welfare.
Tony George
Safety Officer, APWU Local 232