International
Operating Engineer
Summer 2011
Digital
magazine
premieres
summer 2011 1
Features
general officers
Vincent J. Giblin, General President An IUOE perspective
James T. Callahan, General Secretary-Treasurer
William C. Waggoner, First Vice President
Brian E. Hickey, Second Vice President
Breaking the stranglehold on Washington
T
John M. Hamilton, Third Vice President here was a time when Washington understood the plight of tion generated by the IUOE, in addition to oth-
Summer 2011 • Volume 154, No. 2 working-class Americans and represented those who made er similar efforts among other unions, the
Patrick L. Sink, Fourth Vice President
Jerry Kalmar, Fifth Vice President
James T. Callahan, Editor this country what it is. However, that has now given way to amendment was never formally offered.
Russell E. Burns, Sixth Vice President serving and representing powerful special interest groups that pos- That’s the kind of action that makes a
Rodger Kaminska, Seventh Vice President
IUOE Charity Fund helps members in need sess a stranglehold on our nation’s capital. The effects of this grip meaningful difference in the livelihoods
are crippling. of IUOE members and their families.
9
Mark Holliday, Eighth Vice President
We must continue to build the EARN
James M. Sweeney, Ninth Vice President So what can be done to overcome the special-interest chokehold on program. Please encourage fellow op-
Robert T. Heenan, Tenth Vice President Capitol Hill and restore it to the middle-class ideals that are the back- erators to sign-up on the members-only
Daniel J. McGraw, Eleventh Vice President bone of our country? section of our website and participate in
Daren Konopaski, Twelfth Vice President our EARN program.
Two words – Political Action. We must engage every IUOE mem- General President
Michael Gallagher, Thirteenth Vice President
ber to take political action, voice their needs and fight for job creation as Speaking of Davis-Bacon, there Vincent J. Giblin
Greg Lalevee, Fourteenth Vice President
Frank Hanley, General President Emeritus
Local 115 operators bring skill to BC Place if our lives and the lives of our families depended on it, because in most have been five votes in the House of Rep-
12
cases… it does. resentatives this year regarding Davis-Bacon prevailing wages. We have
Budd Coutts, General Secretary-Treasurer Emeritus
won all five of them. The application of Davis-Bacon prevailing wages to
Infrastructure Investment = JOBS federally-assisted construction projects is an important stabilizing influ-
trustees It is that simple. Investment in infrastructure will employ thou- ence in many U.S. construction markets. Davis-Bacon allows our con-
John M. Holliday III, Chairman sands of IUOE members, help restore the construction sector and re- tractors to remain competitive and protects the wages and fringe benefits
John T. Ahern, Trustee suscitate our nation’s economy. It’s been done before and worked. You of IUOE members. For the record, every House Democrat and nearly 50
Kuba J. Brown, Trustee only need to dust off your history books or Google FDR’s New Deal in House Republicans voted in support of Davis-Bacon prevailing wages.
Terrance E. McGowan, Trustee NTF Training, Safety & Health Conference the 1930s that led to more than 34,000 projects such as the construction
of airports, dams, bridges and other job-generating projects that helped
Click here for a detailed breakdown on how they voted
13
Bruce Moffatt, Trustee
pull us out of the Great Depression. The same goes for Eisenhower’s Another example of the IUOE’s efforts to educate and engage
National Interstate and Defense Highways in Act in 1956 that paved members is the scheduling of meetings, in cooperation with our locals,
The International Operating Engineer the way for 41,000 miles of our nation’s Interstate Highway System and with select freshmen House Republicans in their districts, putting these
(ISSN 0020-8159) (USPS 581900) is published quarterly. provided much-needed work for millions of men and women. Perhaps a new representatives together with IUOE members (voters) to help put
International Union of Operating Engineers refresher course in American History should be mandatory for members a face on the myriad of problems facing working people and spelling
1125 Seventeenth Street NW • Washington, DC 20036 of Congress before setting foot in Washington? out the issues that matter to us. This serves as a wake-up call to these
Printed in the USA on union-made paper. representatives that partisan politics and the obstructionist policies that
Subscription Terms - $5 per year
Local 150 resurrects antique steam shovel Otherwise politicians will continue to bicker and fail our nation’s are currently stonewalling jobs for operating engineers will no longer be
16
working-class. This must change. accepted as the national pastime in Washington if they want our sup-
port. In other words, show us your support or we’ll show you the door
Departments
Change of Address - Requests must be submitted Education + Engagement = RESULTS
in writing to the IUOE Membership Department. Include your when it comes time to vote!
Education and engagement are catalysts for change. Consistent
new address, registration and local union number. Recently at Local 150’s district office in McHenry, IL, IUOE
with my belief that the IUOE must constantly improve every facet of
our operations, the International launched an initiative this year to more scheduled a meeting with members and Republican Congressman Joe
POSTMASTERS – ATTENTION:
Change of address on Form 3579 should be sent to: Politics & Legislation ......... 4 19
Legal Briefs ........................... effectively educate and engage our members in legislative and political
action on key priorities. There are several ways we are trying to accom-
Walsh. With support from the Tea Party, Walsh rode the Republican
wave into office in 2010 and had a record of voting against most labor-
International Operating Engineer • Mailing List Dept.
1125 Seventeenth Street NW • Washington, DC 20036
Central Pension Fund ....... 6 Around the Locals .............. 20 plish this objective, many based on what we learned from our survey of
more than 100,000 members conducted last fall.
friendly legislation. As a result of our meeting with Walsh, the IUOE
succeeded in helping convince him to support our key priorities.
Periodicals postage paid at Washington, DC/additional offices
Publications Mail Agreement No. 40843045 Education & Training ......... 10 Member Service .................. 22 The IUOE has sought to increase our use of e-communications, Since that meeting, Walsh has supported the IUOE on all five
including this digital edition of the International Engineer. More than Davis-Bacon prevailing wage and three Project Labor Agreement
GEB Minutes.......................... 24
Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:
2835 Kew Dr.
Windsor, ON N8T 3B7
Safety & Health News........ 16 70% of IUOE members regularly use the internet, so it only makes sense
to use it to effectively and efficiently communicate with members. As
votes this year. While we appreciate his support, much more needs
to be done to create jobs. As the unemployed members of Local 150
Hazmat News ....................... 18 In Memoriam ........................28 part of this initiative, the International has and continues to seek mem-
bers’ email addresses, which allows us to communicate with members
told Walsh, they need investments in a highway bill to put them back
to work, not more partisan politics. Congressman Walsh expressed
through our electronic activist program, the Engineers Action and Re- his support, but we’ll see what his record shows in September when he
Click these links for more on iuoe.org:
sponse Network (EARN). In the last nine months, we have taken the votes on issues critical to the livelihoods of IUOE members.
email list from a few hundred to approximately 36,000 IUOE members.
That represents about 10% of the U.S. membership - it’s a good start, The International is prepared to use all of the tools at our disposal
but we have a long ways to go. to engage politicians, including the technologies and strategies described
If one of these icons appears above, until a highway bill is signed that creates thousands of jobs for
with an article, please click To cite an example of how the tool is used, when Senator John Mc- operating engineers. However, in order for these initiatives to succeed,
Cain prepared an amendment that would completely repeal Davis-Bacon your support, participation and vigilance are essential. Getting members
the icon to see additional prevailing wages from federal law, we were able to generate approximate- back to work is the IUOE’s top priority and a responsibility that I take
content/coverage. ly 3,000 emails from IUOE members to their Senators opposing the personally as General President, so please do your part and join me in tak-
amendment within three days. And as a result of this significant opposi- ing back Washington and making it work for working-class Americans!
video photo text
2 international operating engineer summer 2011 3
Transportation investments require IUOE mobilization TransCanada pipeline projects hits important milestone
The unemployment rate in construction was still over 16% in the International Union that allows you to communicate directly with The permitting process for a critical IUOE-supported project, the construction once they get the permit. Legal challenges, however,
May. While the construction industry has suffered from depression- your Member of Congress. You will receive an automated phone call Keystone XL Pipeline, a 1,700-mile crude oil pipeline from Alberta, are expected.
like unemployment levels for more than two years, the nation’s roads and be given a short overview of the issue. You might be asked to call Canada to Texas, has reached an important milestone. The U.S. State
are crumbling, bridges are collapsing, and commute the U.S. Capitol Switchboard – or perhaps even Department, the agency that would approve the project, released a Find frequent updates on TransCanada’s Keystone XL project by
Supplemental Draft Environmental Impact Statement for Keystone seeing the IUOE News section of the website.
times are rising. punch a button that allows you to connect directly
politics & to your Representative’s or Senators’ offices. XL, and there was an opportunity to comment on it that ended in June.
What can Congress do? Pass a highway trans-
portation law that puts Operating Engineers back to
legislation Worksite fliers delivering important legislative
IUOE members sent 2,000 communications to the Department of
State to tell the regulators how important the project is to thou-
work at the same time rebuilding America’s infra- updates are also being distributed across the coun- sands of hardworking North Americans. See General President
structure—the economic foundation of the country. try. Look for them on your jobsite. Giblin’s comments on the permitting process here.
There are few things more important to the live- The effectiveness of the IUOE Engineers Ac- Approval of the Keystone XL will:
lihoods of Operating Engineers than investing in tion and Response Network (EARN) program con- • Create 20,000 high-quality jobs during the pipeline’s con-
nation’s transportation infrastructure. These invest- tinues to grow as more and more members sign struction phase, including about 4,000 IUOE jobs.
ments employ tens of thousands of Operating Engi- up for the service. This email-based communica-
• Spur more than $20 billion in new spending for the U.S.
neers and other workers in the construction industry. tion tool gives you the ability to send a prepared,
economy.
Half of all the direct jobs created with an investment timely message to your elected officials. It’s an
in highways are in construction. easy way to make the collective voice of Operating • Generate $6.5 billion in new personal income for U.S.
Engineers heard in the Halls of the Capitol here in workers and their families.
American global competitiveness depends on Washington, DC. • Stimulate more than $585 million in new state/local taxes
moving people and goods safely and efficiently. We cannot compete in states along the pipeline route during construction.
with China and India when bridges are falling apart and bottlenecks Make sure you are plugged into the effort to save and create good
exist at virtually every key transportation hub in the nation. That’s jobs for Operating Engineers. As General President Giblin said, “We • Increase American energy security.
why even the U.S. Chamber of Commerce supports a higher level must engage every IUOE member to advocate for good-paying jobs.” Because the project crosses the border with Canada, it needs
of investment than the House Republican Leadership. It’s clear that We need your help to turn the tide on the most devastating construc- what is called a Presidential Permit. The Department of State
activism, technology & creating jobs:
the House Republican Leadership is taking this country in the wrong tion economy since the 1930s. Thousands of Operating Engineers are issues these permits and manages the environmental review for
direction. making the calls, distributing the worksite flyers, and talking to their the project. In order to approve the project, the State Department
The Legislative and Political Department is working to increase
communication focused on issues that are critical to the livelihoods
friends, neighbors and co-workers about the importance of re-invest-
ing in American infrastructure. Add your voice to the message being
needs to find it in the “national interest.” The project is now near-
ing the end of the review process. The Department of State has Make the call to take the call
sent to Capitol Hill: create jobs now by passing a robust highway committed to making a decision on the TransCanada pipeline
of IUOE members and their families. The General President has No one likes to be bothered by telemarketers at home. We
transportation bill! project by the end of 2011. It must keep to this timeline in order have all screened calls from telemarketers and political parties.
called for a higher level of communication between IUOE members to ensure that the project, if it is approved, goes forward. Addi- But, sometimes, it is critical to pick up the phone. Sometimes,
and elected officials, and there are several specific places where you See a recent advertisement that was developed by the Transpor- tional delays will cost more money and increase the uncertainty of your job may depend on it. Take Local 324 as an example.
can make your voice heard. tation Construction Coalition (an alliance of groups, including the the project, both of which could lead TransCanada to terminate it.
IUOE, that push for transportation investments) that ran in Capitol Local 324 has increased its use of phone calls to communicate
Over the next several months, you may receive a phone call from Hill news publications here. After assessing the comments it receives on the Supplemen- important issues to members, calling them to action and then
tal Draft Environmental Impact Statement, the State Department connecting them directly to their elected officials in Lansing. It’s
will release a Final Environmental Impact Statement (FEIS). simple: Local 324 is using the latest technology to create jobs
There will be 30 days to review and comment on the FEIS and through political activism. That is precisely what it will take in
this tough political environment. Several thousand phone calls
also a public hearing. The agency will then make a “national in-
IUOE PHOTO GUIDELINES inch) for color photographs-more commonly called “high-resolution” have been made to Michigan members on issues ranging from
terest determination” for the project and issue the Presidential Project Labor Agreements and prevailing wages, to supporting
photos. This means subjects should be photographed using the highest Permit. TransCanada has purchased the pipe and is ready to begin the construction of key infrastructure projects.
quality setting on your digital camera, also known as the “fine/super-
IUOE appreciates the stories and photos we receive for The Operating fine” or “large” setting. Images should not be manipulated in any way At the federal level, the IUOE will utilize “Patch-Through”
Engineer. There are photo requirements that must be met in order to for size, cropping, color mode, quality of color, or sharpness. Down- and “Robo-Calls” to communicate developments on the
ensure the quality publication you deserve. We offer the following load the images from your camera (only JPEG or TIFF formats are reauthorization of the Highway and Transit Bill, the largest job-
requirements regarding traditional film and digital photo submissions. acceptable) and submit digital photos on a CD to the attention of the creation legislation in Congress for Operating Engineers. In
May, phone calls were made to a dozen Congressional Districts
Communications Department or e-mail them to hdelaney@iuoe.org. around the U.S. with 6,500 members receiving the message.
TRADITIONAL FILM PHOTOGRAPHY Hundreds of operators took up the charge and called their
Photos submitted must include a typed de-
4 x 6 (or larger) glossy color prints on photographic film paper (from member of Congress to thank them for supporting Davis-Bacon
scription of each photo identifying who prevailing wages.
photo finishing services, such as your local retail store developers).
is in the picture and what is taking
Please do not send ink jet, color copier, or color laser prints – they The only way politicians are going to develop the political
place. When staging photos such as
are not suitable for publishing purposes. backbone to adequately fund transportation infrastructure is if
service awards, please group as many
they feel the pressure by hearing from us, their constituents.
recipients into each photo as possible. Every one of us! If you receive one of these calls, please take
DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY By following these recommendations, up the IUOE charge and make your voice heard. Your job may
A 5.0 megapixel camera or higher is recommended for photos to be it enables the IUOE to better highlight depend on it!
published. Printing presses require a minimum of 300 dpi (dots per your local’s story and photos.
4 international operating engineer summer 2011 5
Local 12 operators raise Hoover Dam bridge
Central Pension Fund
Defined Benefit Plans:
Recovering steadily and increasing in demand
ecent studies show that defined
R
In May 2011, the Central Pension Fund By comparison, just 20% of new
benefit plans, and especially issued a special edition of the CPF REPORT employees with only a 401(k) plan cited it
multiemployer plans like the Central which documented the Fund’s recovery, and as playing a role in choosing their employer,
Pension Fund, are steadily recovering from also documented the superiority of CPF to and only 28% said it was a reason they
the global economic meltdown of 2008- any 401(k) plan over the last 25 years. And would stay with that employer. The Towers
2009; and the desire for their coverage in the REPORT documented this superiority, Watson survey results are available at
the workplace is stronger than ever. even if CPF’s benefit accrual rate had been www.towerswatson.com/united-states/
at its currently press/3348.
‘... multiemployer plans are steadily
reduced rate over
the entire 25 year In summary, while the consequences of
period. You may the economic events of 2008-2009 will be
recovering from the historic view the CPF Re- felt for years to come, those events demon-
strated that defined benefit pension plans
port by clicking
economic downturn... because the cover of the can withstand even the worst of downturns,
and it is such downturns that
image below.
they are designed to withstand the remind workers everywhere
This demon- of the value of the retirement
harshest economic conditions.’ strated resilience security that only defined
and recovery of benefit plans can provide.
T
hrough the combined skills of some 300 engineers and Click the screen below to see a time lapse
As expected, multiemployer plans are multiemployer plans, as
1,200 construction workers, including about 25 operating video of the construction of the bridge and click
steadily recovering from the historic eco- well as, their superiority
engineers from Local 12, the Hoover Dam Bypass Bridge the camera icon on the right to see more photos
nomic downturn. This is because they are over 401(k) plans is more
now stands as the largest concrete-arch bridge in the Western of the project on IUOE’s FlickR photo stream.
designed to withstand the harshest economic important to workers to-
conditions. Their design provides the abil- day than ever before. Hemisphere. The new landmark also features the highest precast
ity to protect accrued benefits while cutting segmented columns in the world.
back on the rate of future benefit accruals, A December 2010
survey conducted by The freestanding structure supports the Hoover Dam By-
thus slowing the growth of plan liabilities pass Bridge 890 feet above the Colorado River. It will cut a
and permitting time for plan assets to regrow. Towers Watson, a world-
wide retirement consult- trucker’s travel time between Nevada and Arizona from an
In May 2011 a national survey of ing firm, found that 60% average 30-minute trip over the dam to just six minutes.
multiemployer plans published by the of new employees at
However, motorists with more time on their hands may
Segal Company, a national consulting firm employers with defined
want to stop at the visitor parking lot and use a walkway
specializing in multiemployer plans, found that benefit pension plans
across the bridge to view the dam from 1,700 feet down river.
for calendar year 2011, 66% of multiemployer cited the pension plan as
plans have been certified to be in “Green Zone” an important reason they At a cost of $114 million, the length of the bridge is
or healthy status under the Pension Protection chose to work for their 1,900 feet. The rugged terrain of the Nevada approach cost
Act, an increase from 54% in 2010, and 39% current employer, a sharp more the $30 million for the two miles of road that will also
in 2009. In 2008, before the global economic increase from just 27% in include construction of six new bridges. While the two miles
collapse, 83% of plans had been in the “Green 2009. Furthermore, 72% of the Arizona approach cost $21.5 million and includes one
Zone”. The steady improvement since 2009 of new employees said of the largest bridges – 900-foot-long – in the state.
is evidence of the structural resilience of the defined benefit plan
multiemployer plans. Survey results are is an important reason The combined costs of the total project are approximate-
available at www.segalco.com/publication- they will stay with their ly $240 million, with both states and the federal government
and-resources/multiemployer-publications/ employer, up from 51% providing funding. Work on the project began in late 2003
surveys-studies. in 2009. and was complete in late 2010.
6 international operating engineer summer 2011 7
Union Plus announces 2011 Understanding how IUOE’s National Charity Fund helps
IUOE scholarship winners T
he National Charity Fund was es-
tablished as a separate non-profit
organization by the IUOE General
can also be a terrorist act
such as the 9/11 attacks or
the Oklahoma City bomb-
A higher education is more important now than ever. But with working families Executive Board in May 2007, growing out ing. The Charity Fund is
experiencing a distressed economy, escalating health care costs and tuition rising of the previously established Disaster and not set up to provide gen-
faster than the rate of inflation, affording an education now is even harder. To Hurricane Katrina Relief Funds. From the eral financial assistance to
meet the growing need, Union Plus has awarded $150,000 in scholarships start, its primary purpose has been to pro- members in need, nor to
to 130 students representing 43 unions, including five representing the vide financial assistance to IUOE members give help when an individ-
IUOE, in the 2011 Union Plus Scholarship Program. and their families facing a national or local ual has experienced some
disaster. The Charity Fund is funded by the property loss. Further, it is
International, along with donations received not a death benefit fund for
Samantha Marshik (Local 49 - MN)
from local unions and individuals and aims members.
to maintain $2.5 million in assets available
Samantha of Foreston, MN, whose father Bret Nitzsche is a member of Local 49, has been awarded a $500 scholarship. The Charity Fund is
for distribution in the event of a disaster.
“Head, Heart, Hands, Health” aren’t just the four tenets of 4-H clubs; they also are priorities of the nine-year member. designed to provide finan-
“Hands” and “Health” represent her chosen field: becoming a doctor of chiropractic medicine, with additional training There are two circumstances in which cial assistance as quickly
to treat horses, dogs and felines. “Head” represents her commitment to academics and plans for college. And “Heart” the Charity Fund pays member-related ben- and as fairly as possible
represents her social conscience. She appreciates what unions like the IUOE have done for working families like hers. She efits. The first is when an IUOE member is the claim to determine whether it satisfies the
when a member’s home has been damaged.
aspires to offer a program at her chiropractic clinic to benefit men and women in the armed services and their families. killed in a disaster. In that case, the Charity General Executive Board’s guidelines. Once
To that end, a Request for Assistance form is
the review confirms that payment is appropri-
Fund will make a payment to the member’s available on www.iuoe.org. In cases where
family, generally in the amount of $50,000. ate, the check goes out to the family.
there has been substantial damage to the
Christina Scelfo (Local 94 - NY) The second type of benefit is payable when a member’s home, the member completes the Along with providing aid to members
Christina of Howard Beach, NY, whose father Ralph Scelfo is a member of Local 94, has been awarded a $2,000 member’s home has been destroyed or great- form with their Business Manager, who veri- and their families when a disaster strikes, the
scholarship. She will enter medical school this fall and Christina appreciates what the IUOE has done for her family. ly damaged in some type of disaster. In that fies that they are in good standing. The form
“Being part of the IUOE,” she says, “has provided my family with the assurance of a stable career and the benefits of Charity Fund is set up to serve broader chari-
case, the Charity Fund will pay the member is then submitted to the International’s Office table purposes. For the past two years, it has
programs like pension and annuity.” She also appreciates what the IUOE has done for her: helping to pay for her up to $20,000, depending upon the amount of of Finance and Administration, along with
education with several scholarships. As a doctor, she plans to help the country move forward and provide the best made donations to Martha’s Table, a Wash-
uninsured loss incurred by the member. supporting evidence documenting the loss.
care possible to its citizens. ington, D.C. organization set up to provide
The claim is then reviewed by an outside au- food and clothing for the homeless.
To understand how the Charity Fund
diting firm retained by the International. It is
works, it is important to understand what is
that firm’s job to determine whether the claim But by far the biggest general charitable
Chase Chamberlain (Local 351 - TX) meant by a “disaster.” As the General Execu-
meets the guidelines for payment adopted by effort taken up by the Fund was in 2010 in
Chase of Stratford, OK, whose stepfather Larry Harrison is a member of Local 351, has been awarded a $4,000 scholarship. tive Board has defined the purpose of the Fund,
the General Executive Board. response to the earthquake in Haiti. The Gen-
He is graduating first in his class, with perfect test scores and plans to attend one of America’s top universities as a a disaster is an act of God that has a substantial
eral Executive Board solicited contributions
political science major and then law school. But Chase feels responsibilities outside the classroom, too. His family has national or local destructive impact, such as One of the most valuable features of the from local unions to the Charity Fund for aid
sponsored a boy from Tanzania, and Chase says, “This experience has changed my life.” He is also a reading mentor for tornados, floods, hurricanes, wildfires, bridge Charity Fund is its emergency payment pro- to Haiti, with the promise that the Charity
younger children. Chase traces his social conscience to his stepfather’s IUOE membership. “Having a strong union has collapses or gas line explosions. A disaster gram. As soon as a claim has been submit- would match all contributions received. When
resulted in improvement in policies, equipment and overall general working conditions,” he says. ted, it is reviewed by the Office of Finance 58 local unions donated a total of $131,000,
and Administration and the auditing firm. If the Charity Fund made an equal gift. The re-
the damage and the need are demonstrated, sulting $262,000 was given to Doctors with-
Zachary Zurfluh-Cunningham (Local 513 - MO) a $3,000 payment is sent to the member to out Borders, for its ongoing work in Haiti.
Zachary of Barnhart, MO, whose father Patrick Cunningham is a member of Local 513, has been awarded a $4,000 use for his immediate needs. The emergency
scholarship. Zachary was class president for all four years of high school. And when it comes to school spirit, he is a payment is made no later than 10 days after Since its inception, the Charity Fund has
leader who leads by example: he participated in two sports, school musicals, drum line and student council and co- the Charity Fund has received the request, disbursed approximately $1.1 million, with
founded his school’s debate club. Today this proud son of an IUOE member embarks on the next chapter of his life, and it can go out as quickly as the same day over $800,000 going to IUOE members and
and it promises the same degree of involvement and achievement: college, the U.S. Air Force and a career as a nuclear it is submitted. The member and his family their families. It has responded to hurri-
chemical engineer. thus have some money in hand right away to canes in Texas; wildfires and gas explosions
meet their needs. in California; a Minnesota bridge collapse;
tornadoes in Alabama, Illinois, Kansas, Min-
Uriah Markholt (Local 612 - WA) The Charity Fund performs another im- nesota and Missouri; and floods in Georgia,
Uriah of Mossyrock, WA, whose mother Sona Markholt is a portant service in the face of disasters. If a
member of Local 612, has been awarded a $500 scholar- Union Plus Scholarship Program member dies in a disaster, the Charity Fund
Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Missouri, Washing-
ton and Wisconsin.
ship. “Union activism has been a part of my life ever since Union Plus Scholarships are granted to students attending provides financial help to the surviving family.
I can remember,” says Uriah. Her great-grandmother and two-and four-year colleges, graduate school or a recognized When the deceased member’s Business Man-
technical/trade school. Since 1991, Union Plus has awarded $3
grandfather were union members. “From an early age I million in educational funding to over 2,100 union members ger submits a claim, the General President and
was taught the importance of social justice for all people.” and their families. Recipients are selected based on academic General Secretary Treasurer determine the ap-
Her compassion for animals and people explains her ca- ability, social awareness, financial need and labor appreciation. propriate amount to be paid, with $50,000 the
reer goal: becoming a veterinary technician and opening Visit UnionPlus.org/Education for applications and eligibility. typical sum. The Office of Finance and Ad-
an equine therapeutic riding center for individuals with special needs. ministration and the auditing firm then review
8 international operating engineer summer 2011 9
Education & Training
Local 15 crane operators participate in GPS workshop Local 139 develops crane simulator for erecting wind turbine
L
Local 15 (New York, NY) members attended a Global Po- ocal 139 teamed with a Utah Training center staff applied for and
sitioning System workshop on May 14 at the local’s train- manufacturer of crane simulators received a $275,000 Green Energy Grant
ing facility. Attendees participated in classroom and field to build a first-ever virtual world from the State of Wisconsin in 2009 to
exercises regarding the operation of GPS for surveying where students learn specifically how to develop the simulator. Following a design and
applications and other technological advancements in the erect the components of a wind turbine. testing period, the center put the simulator
industry, which helps enhance the skills of Local 15 oper- into action and began offering wind turbine
ators and maintains their status as leaders in the industry. The simulator is owned by the union’s erection classes in December, 2010.
Pictured (in no particular order) are: Richard Blackmore Joseph J. Goetz Jr. Training Center, in Coloma,
Jr., Robert Cook, Margaret Downey, Mohamed Elramly, WI. Built by GlobalSim, a Kongsberg “We’re pretty proud of what we have
Cory Emanuel, Michael Gillis, Eric Glaeser, Peter Mal- Maritime Company, the machine’s software accomplished here,” said Local 139 Training
mendier, Brett Minnaugh, Christopher Morris, Robert projects real-world scenarios such as two Director Daniel Sperberg. “This simulator is
Phelan, Juan Rivera, Danielle Shelton, Joseph Tripiedi, cranes being operated independently, but the only one of its kind and it’s like being in
Vice President/Business Representative Robert G. Shaw together, to lift the components into place. the real thing.”
and Local 15D Business Representative Anthony LaRosa.
Designed with a commitment to realism, Sperberg said the simulator demonstrates
the simulator lets students get bumped around Local 139’s commitment to offer its members being hoisted into place on actual jobsites.
if they drive their crane over uneven ground, the best possible training available. “We The engineers incorporated those scenes into
feel the wind blow against a crane boom continually strive to be in a leadership role the realistic graphics that students now see
and see the shadow of turbine blades pass nationally as far as training is concerned,” he on the rebuilt simulator’s 90-inch diagonal,
over other objects. Equipped with a cab and said. “This simulator gives us the bleeding- curved projection screen.
controls identical to those in a Manitowoc edge technology to achieve our goal.”
Epic Model 2250 MAXER crane, along with “We’re working with big cranes in this
a second set of the controls, up to two crane This story began about a decade ago when industry to lift very heavy turbine components
students can train simultaneously along with the training center purchased a state-of-the- hundreds of feet into the air,” Stegeman said.
a third individual learning to be a signal art simulator from GlobalSim to teach Local “It is inherently a high-risk situation because
person. With the second set of controls, an 139 members how to operate a crane. But the of that height. The training center can’t buy a
instructor has the option of working with one machine’s intended purpose as a training tool real-life big crane like the Manitowoc 2250.
student at a time. was not realized because it was not set up But our students can establish a high degree
to run a class through. Instead, it was used of confidence with these cranes by using the
The simulator is enclosed within a mainly as an interactive promotional device simulator.”
26-foot-long, 8-foot-wide trailer and can at public events to showcase educational
be transported to locations off the training opportunities at the training center. GlobalSim has 15 years experience
center grounds. manufacturing crane simulators. Its
With the Green Energy engineers put three years into developing
Grant available, Sperberg a high-fidelity working model simulator
Local 99 stationary engineer stewards hone skills
and Crane Instructor specific to wind turbine erection, said Daniel
Doug Stegeman saw an Olson, the company’s manager of operations.
opportunity to upgrade and “This effort included creating the software
Seventy shop stewards attended Local ance,” said Karellas. “A good shop stew- training was to “make the stewards knowl- repurpose the simulator and developing the models to a functional
99’s (Washington, DC) recent training at the ard should be close to their coworkers; give edgeable about the benefits and rights on the to train students how to capability and implementing actual crane
National Labor College, honing their skills good advice and be transparent.” Karellas job that we’ve negotiated in their contracts, operate a crane for use in
and learning new ways to guide their co- added, “A good shop steward also helps re- especially our health and welfare benefits data. Those hours have been added upon
a green industry – wind throughout the ensuing years as upgrades
workers on the shop floor. move confusion in the workplace and helps and our pension fund benefits, and to make power. Stegeman discussed
to find common ground between workers and sure that they can directly transmit that creating virtual wind
and models have been enhanced.”
“We’re like a family that’s eager to help management. It’s so important for us to stick knowledge to the members who are working
each other,” said George Karellas, who has turbine erection scenarios Jennifer Johnson, a journey-level
together, especially with such heavy pressure on the sites.”
been a Local 99 member for 40 years and a these days from politicians trying to bust with GlobalSim engineers. operator, is familiar with running other pieces
shop steward for 10 years. unions and spread misinformation.” Training topics also included identify- In August 2010, he drove heavy construction equipment, but is learning
ing grievances, understanding Weingarten the simulator back to the how to operate a crane. She said the simulator
“It’s great to be able to help young peo- Local 99 Business Manager Mike Mur- rights, organizational processes, how to file manufacturer and provided boosted her confidence. “It’s a stepping stone
ple coming into the profession and also give phy said “a strong steward makes a strong a grievance, labor laws and an overview of photographs he had taken of in learning how to operate a real crane and
more experienced people advice and guid- local union,” adding that the aim of the management rights versus workers’ rights. wind turbine components it’s very realistic,” she said.
10 international operating engineer summer 2011 11
Complex project required skill of Local 115 operators Training, Safety and Health Conference: a learning community
The retractable roof on BC Place stadium
T
he 2011 IUOE Training, Safety and development. The format allowed participants puter class will be added to the existing NTF
is the largest of its kind ever built and re- Health Conference, held July 18 - choices within 23 separate subject areas to master instructor curriculum. There were sev-
quires 36 masts around the outer rim to 21 in Newport Beach, CA, brought match their interests. Several half day ses- eral workshops devoted to using the Black-
hold it up. Each mast is 14 storeys in height together a community of IUOE instructors sions provided an option to explore topics in board Learning System with brief demonstra-
and weighs 120 tons. Together, they will and administrators who shared their knowl- greater depth. tions to review new features.
hold up a cable network resembling 18 edge and insight regarding best practices in
suspension bridges and made up of 35 ki- educating their local union members. Workshops covered safety and health, Wrapping up the week were roundtable
lometers of cable. The cable is 90mm (3.5 program administration and teaching as well exchanges for instructors and ad-
inches) in diameter - double that used in “You are the unsung heroes,” ministrators which provided ample
gondola lifts. said General President Vincent J. opportunities for collaboration and
Giblin during his opening remarks discussion. At the conclusion of the
“It shows the necessity of skilled craft
unions,” said Local 115 Business Manager at the conference while thank- conference, everyone was left with
Brian Cochrane. “Only skilled operators ing participants for their service to a strong sense of positive energy
with top quality training on modern equip- the IUOE. “It’s your dedication to and a commitment to challenge one
ment are qualified for this kind of work.” teaching someone who’s brand new another to keep moving forward.
that make progress in this organiza-
Almost all of the work will be done tion possible.” “On many occasions, I wit-
from the inside of the building by four nessed first-hand this vital core of
massive cranes, including a 850-ton Mani- The dedication of the time and
IUOE administrators and instruc-
towac mobile crane and operating engineer resources that go into supporting all
BC Place: by the numbers
brought in from Texas. That crane required tors who play an integral role in
IUOE training was on full display
85 semi-trailer trucks to bring all the pieces making our members the most
during the week. Interactive work-
to Vancouver. The crane was then reassem- skilled tradesmen on every job-
shops provided feedback from lo-
site,” said General Secretary-Trea-
220 tons approximate weight of each mast and its attachments
bled inside BC Place. It can lift 600 tons at cal union subject matter experts to
a time and will be used to hoist large sec- surer James T. Callahan. “These
National Training Fund staff on new
as craft-specific content for H&P and station-
120 tons weight of the centre node alone
tions of the roof from what used to be the individuals continue to lead the way in inno-
courses and options for delivery.
BC Lions’ playing field, up to the highest ary training programs. Two new master in- vative teaching techniques and equipping fu-
18,000 tons combined weight of all steel used in this construction
points of the building. Many workshops used a focus group ap- structor courses also took place. Advanced ture generations of operating engineers with
The crane operators’ work becomes proach for structured input in future course Teaching Techniques and a Multimedia Com- the tools they need to succeed.”
more difficult as the project progresses. 76,000 square metres area of fabric used to cover the roof
Cables will run from each outer mast to the
node in the centre, creating a cable suspen- 35 kilometres total length of all cabling
sion grid that will support the new retract-
Visit www.bcplace.com for more information
able fabric roof. The lifts have to be done
between the increasingly narrow gaps be-
tween the cables.
“The incredible complexity and skill the importance of training.” ed to meet higher seismic standards and allow
level required for this job is a good reminder BC Place to operate as an emergency shelter
for senior people in government and those Each mast has been shipped to the con- for the Vancouver area in case of an earth-
in positions of power in light of the diluted struction site in three pieces. Those pieces quake or other major disaster.
craft training we’ve seen in this province,” go into a rotator jig to hold them in place for
added Cochrane. “They often don’t realize welding, assembly and finishing. The jig al- The outer plaza surrounding BC Place
lows each mast assembly to will undergo a revitalization during the con-
rotate slowly on its axis, so struction period as well. Almost 100% of
that workers can access all the old roof’s 720,000 square feet of Teflon-
parts of the mast while it’s coated fiberglass fabric and inner liner will
being put together. be recycled, rather than going to a landfill. A
The new roof is much Minneapolis firm that specializes in recycling
heavier than the previous industrial fabric materials will ensure it is cut,
air-supported fabric roof, patched, cleaned and repackaged for use as
so extra rebar and concrete tarps, farm and industrial coverings and an ice
support is being added to the rink liner for a nearby community.
existing concrete support pil-
lars. “It’s been a good opportunity for members
who have been running the cranes, and shows
The building’s founda- the importance of Red Seal [certification] mo-
tions are also being upgrad- bility,” Cochrane said.
12 international operating engineer summer 2011 13
Operator hosts History channel’s “Inspector America”
This steam shovel was used for
nearly 50 years in a concrete business
until it was retired. For the next 30,
it sat idle in a field, exposed to the Local 139 member Tim Galarnyk is on a
harsh New England elements until it mission to warn people of America’s decaying
was discovered online by a group of infrastructure.
members who bought and donated the
decayed chassis to Local 150. And on Sunday nights, he has a worldwide
audience to do so when the 52-year-old operat-
Restoring a piece of equipment ing engineer hosts “Inspector America,” which
for which replacement parts have not airs on The History Channel.
been made for decades is a tall task, “They (producers) asked me in October
but in a little more than six months, 2009 if I would host a show about crumbling
the shovel had a new lease on life. infrastructure - roads, bridges, dams, all of
Veteran mechanics and awestruck that,” Galarnyk said. “They had seen me on
apprentices alike spent time learning the air, talking whenever there was an accident
about the machine and putting it back and we’ve been filming since June of last year.
together.
“It’s been really a lot of fun. We’ve been to
Today, the Erie Type B is running Detroit, Minneapolis, St. Paul, Las Vegas, San
like new on steam and can still move Francisco, Seattle and Los Angeles.”
dirt, one 3/4 –yard bucket at a time.
Galarnyk said that holding a Local 139
union card comes in handy on the show.
“When I go to these different sites and ask
them if I can run the equipment, they are re-
Local 150 resurrects
luctant. But then I produce my union card and that makes revenue for the government. For the Mississippi River in 2007, which killed 13
tell them I’m trained and it opens the door. every dollar the government invests in infra- people and injured 145.
Like when we’re in Detroit, I’m sitting on a structure, there’s more than $3 in trickle down.
a ‘piece of history’
“America’s infrastructure is in need of at-
backhoe, tearing down a building. I learned “For example, if I’m running an excava- tention,” said Dirk Hoogstra, SVP of Develop-
that from the IUOE.” tor, I have to pay the guy with the fuel truck ment and Programming, HISTORY in a press
Along with speaking to the country’s de- and I have to buy tires and groceries and the release regarding the show. “But this series
caying infrastructure, Galarnyk is outspoken list goes on and on.” isn’t about pointing fingers. Local officials
all over the country are doing their best to fix
D
uring its annual family picnic held at its state-of-the-art
in his belief about how to control the country’s Galarnyk has an extensive background
training site on August 7, IUOE Vice President and Local financial deficit. “There’s two ways to harness degrading infrastructures; some of which go
150 President-Business Manager James M. Sweeney took in training and safety. He joined Local 139 in back to the turn of the last century and this
an out-of-control budget,” he said. “Number 2004. For more than 20 years previously, he
attendees back in time by proudly unveiling a recently restored, one, you can cut wasteful, unnecessary spend- show can be an advocate for them. These
fully operational 1925 Erie Type B Steam Shovel. served as corporate risk manager for Lunda structures are living history and this series is
ing. Number two, you can repair, renovate, and Construction Co. He left that company in 1999
replace our infrastructure. When workers are evaluating engineering technologies past and
The Erie Type B, first manufactured in 1915, took the place of to form his own business, Construction Risk present through a modern lens.”
employed doing this, they’re paying taxes and Management, a signatory to Local 139.
other shovels by following the “Henry Ford model” of providing ma-
chines with mass-produced, easily interchangeable parts. Within five According to the news release, each of the
Kelly Vorrasi, a spokesperson for The His- cities Galarnyk visits, “… was built on unique
years, Erie was the standard, enabling contractors to move 350 yards tory Channel, said Galarnyk was selected as
of dirt a day. terrain with tools, technology, and materials of
host for Inspector America through a casting an earlier era. Infrastructure is breaking… and
process conducted by the show’s production now is the time to pay attention.”
company. The origins of the
“This steam shovel is just incredible to see in action,” said Swee- program go back to 2009,
ney. “This is where we came from. Many of the most seasoned op- she said, when The History
erators have never seen one of these in working condition, so it is Channel aired “The Crum-
something that is wonderful to be able to share.” bling of America” special.
Members were excited to see a piece of history in action, and sev- “That did well and it
eral retired members were present who had run one of these machines formed the concept (of In-
during their career. Many attending members noted that the resur- spector America),” she said.
rected steam shovel gave them a sense of appreciation for how difficult
and dangerous their craft was for those who came before them. Vorrasi said that at least
six episodes of Inspector
“After you see what goes into moving dirt with one of these, America will air this sea-
you realize just how tough some of the retirees had to be to spend so son. The premier episode
many years on them,” added Sweeney. “The older guys just lit up was filmed in Minneapolis,
when they saw this machine running, and it was special to see how site of the collapse of the
excited the younger members were to talk about it with them.” Interstate 35 Bridge over
14 international operating engineer summer 2011 15
Survival of the fittest
First Local 3 female crane operator shares her story
safety & health news
W
hen Colette “Miki” Coehlo cut She had to master at least one piece of In her retirement, Coehlo was asked
class in high school, it wasn’t equipment, and it’s not hard to guess which to be a crane trainer and “show them the
Prevention is the key to preventing heat illnesses
because she was bored or want- one she chose. Even though she was told on tricks,” she said.
ed to cause trouble. It was because she was more than one occasion by her male con-
fascinated – with cranes. She wanted to temporaries: “You’ll never be a crane opera- She also keeps busy by volunteering to
watch them – the ones her grandfather, Lo- tor,” she proved them wrong. She started as cook meals at a local women’s shelter 25 to
Heat cramps
E
very year many workers become sick, disabled or die as a re- 30 days a month. “I like helping,” she said.
cal 3 member David Puu, operated. an oiler “from the ground up” and remained
sult of heat illnesses. Operating engineers who work in hot
Heat cramps usually affect workers who sweat a lot during stren- determined, even though, at times, “I want-
environments such as construction, mines and boiler rooms are “It [crane boom] really is an extension of Coehlo also still watches cranes.
uous activity. Sweating depletes the body’s salt and moisture levels. ed to quit.”
at risk of heat stress, which can result in heat stroke, exhaustion or your arm. You picture what you want to do
Low salt levels in muscles causes painful cramps, which may also be a
cramps. Heat can also increase the risk of injuries through sweaty with your mind, and your hand does it,” said Coehlo knows now
symptom of heat exhaustion. Symptoms include muscle pain or spasms
“It [crane boom] really is
palms, fogged-up safety glasses and dizziness. Burns may also occur Coehlo. Spoken like a true crane operator. that becoming an operator
usually in the abdomen, arms or legs. Workers with heat cramps should
as a result of accidental contact with hot surfaces or steam. Workers is hard for any apprentice,
stop activity, sit in a cool place, and drink clear juice/a sports beverage.
most at risk for heat stress are those 65 years of age or older, over- For the Local 3 retiree (since 2009), the
an extension of your arm.
because “you start in the
weight, have heart disease/high blood pressure or are taking medica- goal of being that operator was reached, but trenches and do whatever
tions that may make their body more sensitive to extreme heat. the journey wasn’t an easy one. they ask,” but such tasks
Prevention of heat stress in workers is important. Employers should Employers should: She joined Job Corps in 1975, when she were even harder for a
woman. You picture what you want
provide training so workers understand what heat stress is, how it af- • Schedule jobs for cooler months or cooler parts of the day was 18 years old, after hearing that the con-
fects their health/safety and how to prevent it. The following informa-
tion is a guide to the symptoms of and how to treat heat illnesses:
• Acclimate workers to hot work environments by exposing
them for progressively longer periods
struction industry needed more women, due
to affirmative action. But women operators
“I took a lot of crap,”
she said.
to do with your mind, and
your hand does it.”
weren’t exactly accepted with “open arms.”
• Reduce the physical demands of workers
Heat stroke • Use relief or extra workers for physically demanding jobs
She didn’t hear from Job Corps again about
any jobs.
Despite the challeng-
es, Coehlo persevered,
Heat stroke is the most serious heat-related disorder. It occurs • Provide cool water or liquids to workers becoming the first female
when the body becomes unable to control its temperature: the body’s She did hear of Local 3’s apprentice- “I miss operating a crane boom so
• Provide cool areas for use during breaks and rest periods crane operator in the union upon her initia-
temperature rises rapidly, the sweating mechanism fails, and the body ship program but was told over the phone tion in 1977. much. My heart goes… when I see them;
is unable to cool down. When heat stroke occurs, the body temperature • Monitor workers who are at risk of heat stress that they were only accepting applicants my fingers get itchy. I ate, slept and breathed
can rise to 106 degrees Fahrenheit or higher within 10 to 15 minutes. • Provide heat stress training on Maui – they didn’t know she was from “I was good, because I loved it. It is a it [operating cranes],” she said. This is why
Heat stroke can cause death or permanent disability if emergency treat- Maui! She studied hard for the written and high to get in the seat,” she said. teaching seems the next, natural step.
ment is not given. Symptoms include: hot, dry skin or profuse sweat- Workers should: manual dexterity tests and passed, but even
ing, hallucinations, chills, throbbing headache, high body temperature, then, her entrance into the program wasn’t Still, it didn’t get any easier from there. She remembers what fun it was to oper-
• Wear light-colored, loose-fitting, breathable clothing After arriving on her first job, the supervisor
confusion/dizziness and/or slurred speech. The following steps should a certainty. ate the biggest crane on Maui. “I was trained
be taken to treat a worker with heat stroke: call 911 and notify their • Gradually build up to heavy work let her know right away that “we don’t want on bigger cranes, 150-ton, old-style conven-
supervisor, move the sick worker to a cool shaded area, cool the work- • Take more breaks in extreme heat/humidity in a cool area “They only took the first 10 applicants you here, but we don’t have a choice.” tional cranes. They’d [other operators] see
er using methods such as: soaking their clothes with water; spraying, • Drink enough water frequently [who passed],” Coehlo said. “Doors opened you sit in the seat, and they’d look two,
at 7:45 a.m., so I was there at 4:30 a.m.” But Coehlo didn’t back down, and she
sponging, or showering them with water; fanning their body. • Avoid drinks with caffeine, alcohol and lots of sugar three, four times. Their facial expressions
never let anyone
were priceless.”
• Avoid protective clothing or equipment that may increase see her cry (even
Heat exhaustion the risk of heat stress though, at times, So is a passion about your profession.
Heat exhaustion is the body’s response to an excessive loss of • Monitor your physical condition and that of your coworkers she did). Coehlo still has this passion and has passed
the water and salt, usually through excessive sweating. Workers most it on to her “hanai,” or “adopted,” sister
prone to heat exhaustion are those that are elderly, have high blood “Every day,
you have to prove Wanda Sajulga (a member since 1981) and
pressure, and those working in a hot environment. Symptoms in- her “hanai” niece, Malia DeVera-Igarta (a
clude: heavy sweating, extreme weakness or fatigue, dizziness, confu- yourself,” she said
of being a female member since 2004).
sion, nausea, clammy, moist skin, pale or flushed complexion, muscle
cramps, slightly elevated body temperature, fast and shallow breathing. operator. “Women Her advice to young operators today,
Treatment for heat exhaustion should include: rest in a cool, shaded or have a softer touch, struggling in the tough economy, is to “ride
air-conditioned area, drink plenty of water or other cool, nonalcoholic but they have to get it out.” Another testament to her tenacity is
beverages, a cool shower, bath, or sponge bath. over their fear. Time that when she went through the slowdown in
and time again, I’ve the economy in the ’80s, she “drove tours in
seen it – they let Maui... You have to find a way to survive.”
Heat syncope the fear take over.
Heat syncope is fainting, light-headedness or dizziness that usually If they get over it, Coehlo is definitely a survivor.
occurs with prolonged standing, sudden rising from a sitting/lying posi- they can be excel-
tion or dehydration. Treatment should consist of sitting/lying down in a Local 3 Operator Colette Coelho, far right, with her “adopted” sister Wanda Sajulga (a member since lent operators.”
cool place and slowing drinking water, clear juice or a sports beverage. 1981), left, and niece Malia DeVera-Igarta (a member since 2004).
16 international operating engineer summer 2011 17
HAZMAT news Legal Briefs
Innovative safety and health apps for smartphones NLRB sues AZ over amendment limiting voluntary recognition
Solomon notified the Attorney General that the NLRB had au-
O
Social media refers to the use of web- lish and Spanish, this app uses heat index data formation. The ARC app also features 9-1-1 n May 6, Acting General Counsel of the National Labor
based and mobile technologies to turn com- from NOAA with the user’s location to deter- dialing that auto-launches your location in- Relations Board Lafe Solomon sued the State of Arizo- thorized litigation if necessary to prevent the constitutional amend-
munication into an interactive dialogue. It mine protective measures. It also provides formation while on the call with the emer- na in federal district court in Phoenix seeking ment’s interpretation in conflict with federal law. He sent
also includes numerous applications or better signs and symptoms of heat-related illnesses gency dispatcher. The AHA app allows you to have a state constitutional amendment de- similar letters to the Attorneys General of
known as “apps” for safety and health related and first aid steps to take in an emergency. It to store medical information. clared in conflict with the National Labor Relations three other states - South Carolina, South
topics are available and many can be applied is currently an Android only app and can be Act and therefore preempted by the Supremacy Dakota and Utah - which had passed similar
in your work and personal life. One word downloaded at http://go.usa.gov/KFE. To get the ARC app, Android users can Clause of the United States Constitution. amendments.
of caution, you should never use the apps on go to https://marketlandroid.com and down-
your smartphone while driving, operating CPR /First Aid load the S.O.S. by ARC app. To download Arizona’s voters passed the amendment in After attempts to resolve the matter
equipment or performing other tasks. A CPR/First Aid app is available from the AHA app, iPhone users go to www.heart. question on November 2, 2010. The amendment through discussion and negotiation failed,
the American Red Cross (ARC) and the org/heartorg and search for CPR First Aid limits the method by which employees can choose a the lawsuit was filed. The suit relies on prec-
Heat Index American Heart Association (AHA). They app. Android users can download the AHA union to only a secret ballot election. edent established in NLRB v. Nash-Finch Co.,
Released by the DOL, available in Eng- provide emergency care instructions and in- app at http://android.market.com. a 1971 case where the U.S. Supreme Court
In January 2011, Solomon wrote to the upheld the NLRB’s authority to seek federal
Arizona Attorney General advising that the
Training key in reducing high rate of fall fatalities
court injunctions against state actions that con-
amendment conflicted with the National Labor flict with federal rights.
Relations Act because it precluded voluntary
recognition of unions by employers—an alterna- Because voluntary recognition pursuant
According to the Bureau of Labor Sta- in the construction and general industry. tive path to union bargaining status which had been to Section 8(f) is by far the most frequent way
tistics’ Census of Fatal Occupational Inju- lawful under the Act for many years; Solomon also cited union representation is established in the con-
The NTF course included two days of
ries Summary 2009, a preliminary total of Section 8(f) of the Act, which specifically provides for voluntary struction industry, this case is of particular inter-
4,340 fatal work injuries were recorded in class instruction and a third day of hands-on
recognition in the construction industry. est to construction workers and their unions.
the U.S. in 2009, with 617 workers dying activities. Students were asked to inspect
as a result of a fall in 2009. Approximately fall protection equipment and scaffolds,
construct a controlled access zone (CAZ)
Procedural reforms in election cases proposed by NLRB
half of all fatal falls occur in construction.
and erect scaffolds, inspect ladders and a
The IUOE NTF National HAZMAT Pro- horizontal lifeline and then each student
gram recently completed its second OSHA was asked to properly don a fall protection Require employers to provide a final voter list in electronic form
T
he National Labor Relation Board published a Notice of
3110 Fall Arrest Systems course, which harness and was given the opportunity to Proposed Rulemaking on June 22, seeking to streamline soon after the scheduling of an election, including voters’ tele-
was held in conjunction with the two-day feel what it is like to be suspended in a per- its procedures in representation cases, the proceedings by phone numbers and email addresses when available.
NTF Rigging Safety course. The three-day sonal fall arrest system (PFAS). which the NLRB conducts elections to determine whether
OSHA 3110 Fall Arrest Systems training groups of employees wish to be represented by a union. As stated Consolidate all election-related appeals to the board into a sin-
course covers fall prevention and protection IUOE local instructors that wish to con- gle post-election appeals process and thereby eliminate delay
in the NLRB’s press release describing the proposed rules, these
duct fall protection training in holding elections currently attributable to the possibility of
proposals would:
or incorporate fall protec- pre-election appeals.
tion training into their ex- Allow for electronic filing of election petitions and other docu-
isting training may use the ments. Make review of post-election decisions discretionary rather than
new Fall Protection and mandatory.
Prevention material created Ensure that employees, employers and unions receive and ex-
change timely information they need to understand and partici- The NLRB held a public hearing on the proposed changes on July
by the IUOE NTF National 18-19 and comments on the proposed rules were due August 22, with
HAZMAT Program. instructor manual and M-49-2011.ST for the pate in the representation case process.
the NLRB allowing responses to the initial comments to be filed with-
student manual.
Standardize timeframes for parties to resolve or litigate issues in 14 days after the initial comments were due.
The material includes a
IUOE local union instructors may also before and after elections.
student manual, instructor IUOE local unions are active users of the NLRB’s election proce-
manual and corresponding request fall protection equipment to use Require parties to identify issues and describe evidence soon dures, and any procedural reforms that curtail delay, avoid needless
PowerPoint presentations. during their classes including fall protection after an election petition is filed to facilitate resolution and elimi- litigation, and limit interference with employees’ right to vote for union
Instructors may order the harnesses, lanyards and equipment. nate unnecessary litigation. representation are welcome.
material by submitting a
For more information, please contact Defer litigation of most voter eligibility issues until after election.
proposal form and referenc-
304-253-8674 or hazmat@iuoehazmat.org.
ing M-49-2011.IN for the
18 international operating engineer summer 2011 19
OUND the lo
ca
AR ls New tools online to compare health care quality
A
s consumers, we strive to
Nationals Labor Night a grand slam for Local 99 members
make informed decisions on
the quality of the products
and services we purchase whether it
The brutal heat and humidity in the nation’s gency Assistance Fund, is an automobile, mechanic or even
capitol and a loss by the Washington Nation- which helps struggling fami- dish soap. Consumer magazines and
als didn’t dampen the spirit of solidarity dur- lies in financial crisis. websites are plentiful to aid us in
ing the recent Labor Night at Nationals Park. our decision making.
“Tonight is a reflection of
Almost 6,000 metro-area union mem- the solidarity and generosity For healthcare, however, our doc-
bers, including Local 99 (Washington, of those in the labor move- tor was probably our only cred-
DC) stationary engineers and their fami- ment,” said Metro Washing- ible source for information, and that
lies, filled the stands at Nationals Park for ton Council, AFL-CIO Presi-
http://hospitalcompare.hhs.gov/ http://www.medicare.gov/
meant going in for an appointment.
the 5th Annual Labor Night at the Nats. dent Josh Williams. “We all Otherwise, we have been “on our own” This tool helps you compare the qual- homehealthcompare/
have fun and the proceeds ity of care hospitals provide. It provides
The evening raised almost $10,000 for
as to the purchases for what is most This tool helps compare the quality of
go toward helping our fellow a list of U.S. hospitals including hospital
the Community Services Agency’s Emer-
important: maintaining our health and care that home health agencies pro-
union brothers and sisters in demographics (location, hospital type),
that of our loved ones. vide. It provides a list of U.S. home health
need.” Local 99 Business Representative Sam Redden on the field exchanging the line-up
44 quality-of-care measures and data
agencies, including demographics, ser-
with Nationals Manager Davey Johnson and umpires. Finally, this situation is now start- on some Department of Veterans Affairs
Union members and their medical centers. vices provided and quality measures.
ing to change. Medicare is leading the
children took turns throwing out the wave by assessing health facilities on a
first pitch and performing a stirring
variety of quality measures. Below are
rendition of the National Anthem in
links to new and useful tools that now
front of the Fairfax County Profession-
allow you to compare healthcare fa-
al Firefighters and Paramedics Asso-
cilities so that you can make appropri-
ciation Honor Guard, which presented
the colors. ate decisions. Going forward as more
tools become available, they will be
Among those participating in pre- highlighted in the Operating Engineer.
game rituals were Local 99’s Sam
Redden, who exchanged the line-up
card with Nationals Manager Davey
Johnson before watching the Nats
take the field and Local 99 retired
http://www.medicare.gov/ http://www.medicare.gov/
Business Manager Lou Cernak, who Local 99 Business Manager Michael Murphy, his grandson Hayden and
Dialysis/ NHCompare/
Retired Local 99 Business Manager Lou Cernak took to the mic
to say “Play Ball”. delivered the “play ball” call. Business Representative Sam Redden on the field. Use this tool to help you compare the Use this tool to compare the quality of
quality of care that dialysis facilities care that nursing homes provide. A list
Local 400’s Bird first Local 542 member erects massive tank
provide. It provides a list of U.S. dialysis of U.S. nursing homes including demo-
facilities which graphics (location and type of facility)
includes and nursing home ratings, which con-
female vested miner Local 542 (Fort Washington, PA) Operat-
ing Engineer Jim Lynch, second from the right
services
provided,
tains health inspection reports, staffing
data, and quality measures.
in the photo on the q u a l i t y
Local 400
right, recently erect- measures, and
(Helena, MT)
ed a 200,000 gallon resources.
Operator Keri
Aqua Pa tank in Hon-
Bird became
eybrook, PA for the
the first female
Fisher Tank Co. He is
vested miner in
seen here with mem-
the history of
bers of the Boilermak-
the WRI-Absalo-
ers. As a result of
ka mine.
the skill and training
of Lynch, the job had
zero accidents.
20 international operating engineer summer 2011 21
Union Plus Scholarships
NEW online application now available!
N
“Having a strong local early 2,100 students in union families have
union has resulted received money for college through the Union
in improvement in Plus Scholarship. The new application is
policies, equipment now available entirely online! You can complete the
and overall general application in stages and save your answers before you
working conditions.
submit.
This experience has
changed my life.” Who can apply:
Chase Chamberlain Current and retired participating union members, their spouses
and their children.
What kind of school is eligible:
The scholarship is open to students who attend or plan to
attend a U.S. college, university, community college, or a
technical/trade school. Students attending undergraduate or
Now graduate schools are eligible.
Apply
Online Scholarship amounts:
! Recipients will receive $500 to $4,000.
Deadline to apply:
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
(11:59 pm Eastern Time)
Scholarship recipients announced:
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Details and online application available at:
UnionPlus.org/Scholarships
N OF OP
IO E
N ZED DEC R
I .
ORG U
N
A 1896
7
A
300
TI
AT I O N A L
240
,
360
NG
180 420
120 480
ENG
Chase Chamberlain
LA
60 540
RN
IT
IN
0 600
B
C
E O
R
E
N
T
of Stratford, OK, whose stepfather VI
E
IN OM R
NIA S
Larry Harrison is a member of IUOE
Local 351, has been awarded a $4,000
scholarship.
UnionPlus.org/Scholarships
IUOE-FLY-SCHOL-L0811
22 international operating engineer