Your union is fighting back after a member was recently issued a letter of warning for “insubordination” after they rightfully exercised their right to refuse unsafe work. Let’s be crystal clear: prioritizing your safety is not insubordination, it’s your fundamental right.
This action by the employer is unacceptable and sends a dangerous message that productivity is more important than your well-being.
We strongly condemn this decision and are taking immediate action.
Your Right to Refuse Unsafe Work is Non-Negotiable
Every worker in British Columbia has the legal right to refuse work they believe is unsafe for themselves or others without fear of being disciplined. This isn’t just a union principle; it’s the law.
You are the one who determines if a task is safe for you to perform.
You do not have to prove it’s unsafe; you only need to have a reasonable belief that it is.
Your employer has a legal duty to investigate your concerns and ensure the hazard is corrected.
Consider these examples:
Physical Refusal: You refuse to operate a vehicle that has faulty brakes. The danger is clear and immediate.
Psychological Refusal: You refuse to attend a one-on-one meeting with a manager who has a documented history of bullying you, unless a union steward is present. The hostile environment they create is the hazard, and it poses a real risk to your mental well-being.
In both scenarios, the worker is identifying a hazard and taking steps to protect themselves. The source of the danger is different, but the fundamental right to be safe at work remains the same.
Your union is committed to ensuring the employer recognizes all safety risks. If you feel you’re in a situation that is unsafe for either your physical or mental health, you have the right to refuse, and we have your back.
Disciplining an employee for exercising this right is a form of intimidation and a direct violation of workplace safety regulations.
How We’re Fighting for You:
CUPE 1048 will not stand by while a member is punished for protecting themselves. We have filed a formal grievance to have this unjust letter of warning immediately removed from our member’s file. We are also going to engage the Joints Health and Safety Committee, as well as WorkSafe BC if it needs to happen in order to resolve these issues.
We are sending a clear message to the employer: we will always defend our members’ rights, especially when it comes to health and safety. The safety of our members will always be our highest priority, and we will use every tool available to us to ensure it is respected.
What to Do If You Face Unsafe Work:
If you ever find yourself in a situation where you believe the work is unsafe, remember these steps:
Stop Work: Immediately stop the task you believe is unsafe.
Report It: Report the hazard to your direct supervisor right away.
Call Your Union: Contact a steward or the union office immediately. We will support you through the entire process.
Your solidarity is our strength. Standing together ensures that every one of us can go home safe at the end of the day.
In Solidarity,
CUPE 1048