Stewards' Guide Section 5

HOW THE STEWARDS CAN HELP BUILD THEIR UNION

The best steward in the world can’t carry the union alone. You may be a whiz on preparing grievances. You may outtalk the supervisor with ease. But you still need the workers behind you. The support is strongest when every worker in the facility is a union member and knows why. Then each person can help you carry the ball to newcomers.

Roles and Responsibilities

Like most vitally important jobs, that of a steward is very difficult. In fact, it may seem like a steward is expected to be all things to all people at once. Of course that is impossible, but by understanding the various roles of a steward and doing your best at fulfilling them, the steward will contribute greatly to the strength of the union.

The roles of the steward can best be described as that of negotiator, educator, leader, organizer, communicator and political activist.

NEGOTIATOR

The primary negotiating task of the steward is the handling of grievances. Listed below are the things that the steward should do and know to fulfill the role of negotiator and suggestions as to how to do them:

The Steward as a Negotiator

What to Do:

1. Settle Grievances.

2. Screen gripes through grievances.

3. Police the contract.

4. Check working conditions.

5. Enforce Labor legislation.

6. Check time studies.

7. Review merit ratings.

8. Keep written records.

What you Need to Know:

1. Proper grievance handling.

2. How to analyze a grievance.

3. Meaning of contract clauses.

4. Health and Safety hazards.

5. Federal and State Labor laws.

6. Time study principals.

7. Job evaluation principals.

8. All settlements reached.

How You Go About It

1. Check all available facts before taking an issue to management.

2. Prepare your case so that it is clear, complete and to the point.

3. Be careful to observe all contract requirements on grievance handling.

4. In dealing with your supervisor be business-like, polite and firm. (a) Don’t bully or threaten. (b) Treat the other person with respect and demand that you be treated in the same manner.

5. Keep the grievant(s) informed as to the status of their grievance.