Brothers and sisters:
There is a lot going on, so I’ll get right to it….
The National Elevator Industry Educational Program (NEIEP) is offering a new online course called “Arc Flash Safety in the Workplace.” The purpose is to introduce the student to the cause and dangers of arc flash. Arc flash is the sudden release of electrical energy between conductors or ground. The results can range from minor burns and blurred vision to hearing or vision loss, second or third degree burns and electrocution if the arc uses the person as a conductor to ground. According to OSHA every year 2000 people are treated for arc flash injuries every year. The course is available through the NEIEP website at neiep.org.
The annual Retirees Dinner for Local 17 has been changed to May 16th. The event will still be held at Frank Sterle’s Slovenian Restaurant, 1401 East 55th Street, Cleveland Ohio. The cost is $30 for active members and free for retirees. Please contact Entertainment Chairman Mike Hogan at m.hogan67@yahoo.com or Business Manager Tim Moennich at 216-431-8088 or TMoennich@iueclocal17.org for your reservations.
June 7th Local 17 will hold the annual golf outing at Mallard Creek Golf Club, 34500 Royalton Road, Columbia Station. The cost this year is $100 dollars for a day filled with 18 holes of golf, food, prizes at an event that is the best way to start the summer. The deadline for reservations is May 23rd. Contact Mike Hogan to make your reservations for this year’s event.
The new IRS mileage rate is 56 cents per mile effective January 1. This is a decrease of one-half cent a mile from 2013.
With the implementation of the Affordable Care Act there are several changes that are being rolled out in the health and welfare benefits. Children under the age of 26 will be covered under the plan. If your child is covered, you will be receiving a letter from the benefits office explain the change. If they are covered by another plan, then the coordination of benefits rules will apply.
The International is advising all Schindler employees to not sign the vehicle policy. There is a form agreed to between the International and Schindler and that is the only accepted form to sign.
Otis recently settled a grievance over the use of flat travel cables being shipped to the job with the jacket removed from both ends. Otis is allowed to ship flat cables with the controller end stripped but not the car end. If you receive something different at your job or have a question about the settlement, then call Tim to give him the details or ask for clarification.
Also with health care, there are changes being made to the Medco and Express Scripts programs that supply medication to members and their dependents. If you are one of the affected, you will be receiving a letter from Express Scripts on the changes. There is also an increase in the hearing aid benefit from $1200 per ear to $2000.
The next meeting of the Volunteer Organizing Committee will be Monday, February 17 at 5 pm at the school located at East 25th and Superior Ave. For more information, contact Tim at the hall or chairman Don Knapik at dknapik@windstream.net or 440-453-9012. Everyone is encouraged to be a part of the committee.
IUEC Local 17 sends its condolences to the family of retired Brother Pete Nuccio whose wife recently passed away.
As of this writing there are 13 mechanics and two helpers on the bench.
Until next month,
Work smart, work safe and slow down for safety.
Don
DKnapik@windstream.net
International Union of Elevator Constructors Local 17 