Understanding the Contract

The collective bargaining agreement (CBA) is the foundation of your power as a steward. It is a legally binding document that governs the relationship between the employer and the union.

Key Contract Sections:

Seniority: Most contracts include seniority provisions that affect promotions, layoffs, shift assignments, and vacation scheduling. Seniority protects longer-serving employees.

Overtime Rules: The contract typically specifies how overtime is distributed, whether it's mandatory, and how it's compensated.

Discipline Procedures: Look for progressive discipline steps: verbal warning, written warning, suspension, termination. The contract may require 'just cause' for any discipline.

Grievance Procedure: This outlines the steps for filing and processing grievances, including timelines and who is involved at each step.

Management Rights: Understand what management can and cannot do. Some rights are reserved for management, but they must still follow the contract.

Tips for Stewards:

• Read the ENTIRE contract, not just parts that seem relevant

• Keep a copy with you at all times

• Know the timelines for filing grievances

• Understand past practice — how has the contract been applied before?