Independent Ergonomic Study to be conducted at the VMPP!

Under Appendix DD of the collective agreement, both Canada Post and CUPW are required to review the mandate and operation of the National Joint Health and Safety Committee with the goal of improving working conditions in postal facilities throughout Canada. In accordance with that mandate, the parties have recently agreed to conduct an ergonomic study of the Bar Code Sorter machine (BSC) in certain mechanized plants throughout Canada. This ergonomic study will be conducted by an independent firm ("Interface Ergonomics") which will provide recommendations to both Canada Post and the Union. 

This ergonomic study will take place in Vancouver during the period of June 20-22, 2005. Needless to say, it has been a long time coming. A recent study has indicated that 90% of BCS employees work in pain. This study will provide an opportunity for an independent party to make an objective assessment of BCS work and its hazards. In preparation for the study, a survey will be distributed which, upon completion, will be placed by employees into a locked box which may only be accessed by the consultants. The information contained within those surveys will only be seen by the consultants, and will be destroyed following the study. Canada Post will have no access to the information contained within the surveys. These surveys are to be completed prior to the commencement of the study so that the consultants will have the chance to review the information in advance. 

There will also be a series of discussion groups held with P04s, CUPW maintenance staff, and supervisors, although supervisors will not be present during any discussions with CUPW members. 

Participation in this study is strictly voluntary, but CUPW is strongly encouraging its members to participate in this project, as it is one of the few opportunities with which to expose and identify the hazards involved in operating the BCS machines. For more information on this study, please speak with your shop steward or feel free to call the Vancouver Local office.

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