Dangerous temperatures are expected across New York this week. Our Teamster contract protects our right to work safely in the heat. Here's what you need to know. 

Management must provide adequate water, ice, and building fans. If your building is out of compliance, alert your Shop Steward or Business Agent.

Article 18 of our contract protects your right to rest in a cool zone when you’re experiencing symptoms of heat illness. This is in addition to regular meal and 10-minute breaks. 

Recognize early signs of heat-related illness, such as fatigue, nausea, headache and cramping. 

Notify management and your shop steward and inform them you are experiencing symptoms of heat illness and that you are exercising your rights under Article 18 of the contract to take a cool down break.

Drivers should always use the DIAD to communicate with management, so you have a record.

Rest and rehydrate. When you are recovered and ready to return to work, inform management. If you are struggling to recover, call emergency services.

If management instructs you to clock out, work as instructed and file a grievance.

UPS's own Recharge program materials instruct employees that, "On extremely hot days or during heat waves, maintain a slower pace and take frequent breaks."

It is a violation for management to retaliate against members for resting to prevent heat-related illness, or for calling 911 in an emergency.

If that happens, contact your shop steward or business agent immediately.

Local 804 in Action

Local 804 is stepping up to protect members. 

We are reaching out to members to provide heat safety information and will be acting together to enforce our rights. 

Scroll the materials below for more information on our rights.