CIM Section 34.4

Section 34.4 provides that if no grievance is filed by the Union at the National level, the Postal Service may implement the new work or time standards at its discretion. If a grievance is filed by the Union at the National level and is unresolved after 10 days, the matter may be submitted to priority arbitration by the Union; any such submission must be made within 5 days. While the dispute is pending, live implementation of the new or changed work measurement system or work or time standard may occur in the test sites (except as provided in Section 34.5 hereunder.)

As noted, while the arbitrator’s decision is pending, the new systems or standards will not be implemented beyond the test cities. During this interim period, however, the Postal Service may continue to gather data or conduct related time studies in any other facility pending receipt of the arbitration decision.

The issue before the arbitrator will be whether the national concepts involved in the new work or time standards are fair, reasonable and equitable.

Question: Is there any recourse if the Union and Management do not agree on proposed work measurement systems or work and/or time standards?

Answer: The Union may file a grievance at the National level to determine whether the new system or standard is fair, reasonable and equitable.