Bulletin
BCH & Powertech – Respectful Workplace Assessments
March 25, 2020
To: All MoveUP Members at BCH & Powertech
It has recently come to MoveUP’s attention that your employer is performing what it describes as “Respectful Workplace Assessments”, in which a an advisor or investigator asks questions of workers in order to determine whether or not there are respectful workplace issues in particular areas.
Please note that these Respectful Workplace Assessments do not comply with MOU #44 of your collective agreement, which provides a detailed process on how Respectful Workplace concerns are identified and investigated. Please also note that these Respectful Workplace Assessments have, in some cases, resulted in permanent letters placed on the personnel files of MoveUP members, which BC Hydro has so far refused to remove despite the union’s filing of grievances.
While we support initiatives to ensure a respectful workplace for all workers, we believe that the best way to do so is through a clear, fair, and consistent approach, such as what is set out explicitly in MOU #44. We have advised BC Hydro that MoveUP will continue to support the various processes under MOU #44, and is prepared to work with the company to review the processes under MOU #44 and, if appropriate, make changes to best ensure a respectful workplace for everyone.
If you are asked to participate in a “Respectful Workplace Assessment”, we encourage you to refuse until you have had an opportunity to speak with a job steward or Union Representative.
In solidarity,
Barbara Junker, Union Representative
Tony Geluch, Union Representative
Mike Novak, Union Representative
April Young, Union Representative
Cheryl Popeniuk, Senior Union Representative
Rysa Kronebusch, Vice President Utilities