Warehousing and manufacturing employees are the backbone of our economy. More than 62,000 warehouse employees work in thousands of locations across the country.
But there are a lot of challenges facing warehouse workers across the province, such as a high rate of injuries, demanding work, and lower wages. So why are Canada’s most vital sectors the most invisible?
At Teamsters 987, we fight for the rights of our members to create fair workplaces across Alberta. By uniting with hundreds of other Teamsters in the warehousing and manufacturing industry, we can win the fair wages and strong protections we need.
What warehouse workers are we talking about?
When it comes to classifying “warehouse work”, it includes establishments that operate general merchandise, refrigerated, and other warehousing and storage facilities.* The most common roles in these facilities are Order Selectors, Forklift Operators, Shippers, Receivers and Maintenance/Janitorial positions.
However, online retailers like Amazon often use “third-party logistics companies”. That means they maintain their internal logistics and delivery but contract out the work to companies that specialize in distribution, warehousing, and fulfillment services.
Challenge 1: High rate of injuries
With the everchanging demands of the industry, health and safety are directly tied to the increased workload and pace at which jobs are completed. In many cases, there remains to be insufficient time and resources available to workers.
Oftentimes (especially in non-union environments) employers don’t dedicate enough time and resources to safety training or give priority to Health and Safety Committees.
Unions generally make educational materials and health and safety training courses non-negotiable essentials to the job requirements. Unions also campaign for better laws and legislation to keep improving workplace health and safety.
Challenge 2: Demanding work
The economic climate has a direct influence on industries pushing for higher profits. As a result, increased workload and demand for higher productivity go hand-in-hand. Workers no longer feel safe at work under such conditions.
Having a Union contract in place gives a voice to the workers, helping them fight and negotiate for better workplace operations like pace of work, productivity goals, and engineered standards.
The set agreements between the employer and the Union decrease the threat of unfair productivity quotas and demanding work output.
Challenge 3: Lower wages
Overtime is the biggest concern when it comes to wages. It’s often defined as compulsory or mandated by employers, and without a Union contract in Alberta can be changed as the employer sees fit, usually for their benefit and not yours.
With a Union contract, workers are entitled to overtime pay from the get-go and can see when they can expect to receive pay raises. The employer legally CANNOT alter these terms without the employees agreeing to it.
What can warehouse workers do to improve things?
It’s time to shed light on the invisible force that is the backbone of our economy. Together and with more coordination, workers can feel empowered to fight for fairer wages and safer work environments.
Alberta labour unions such as Teamsters Local 987 have been helping warehouse workers improve their standards of living for over 80 years and can help workers who don’t currently have a Union take the necessary steps to unionize. Once a union is in place, workers can enter a collective bargaining negotiation to address key issues in a legally binding contract.
Stand up for your rights
Act now and ensure that Alberta’s warehouse workers receive the support they need.
If the warehouse you work at is taking advantage of its workers, Teamsters 987 can help. Contact us today to learn how we can be your ally in achieving a stronger, more equitable workplace.
* “Summary – Canadian Industry Statistics: Warehousing and storage – 4931.” Government of Canada. (from https://www.ic.gc.ca/app/scr/app/cis/summary-sommaire/4931).
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