Eblast March 19, 2020
CORONAVIRUS, SERIOUSLY!
So, here we are – whiplashed by uncertainty and by breaking news about a deadly virus that has brought the nation to a virtual standstill. But you should know that the officers and staff of USW Local 8888 are closely monitoring the situation at NNS on behalf of our 10,000-plus members. Your safety is our number #1 priority during this global health crisis. We also know that you need timely and accurate information as the company tries to adjust its personnel policies in an environment that changes day-by-day, even hour-by-hour. Local 8888 leaders will keep lines of communication open with the company to protect your rights and others you work with.
COVID-19 Q & A:
- Will the shipyard shutdown? NO.
- Will the Local 8888 union hall be close? NO (limited hours).
- Will union members need to be patient, flexible and helpful? YES, YES, YES!
What if an employee reports that they have been exposed, are symptomatic, or have been diagnosed with COVID-19?
- If an employee reports that they have been exposed to COVID-19 or they report to work exhibiting respiratory illness symptoms, (fever over 100.4, a cough, shortness of breath) the employee’s supervisor will notify the COVID-19 phone line at 1-844-243-8749 and discuss options and return to work.
• If an employee is passed, instruct them to call the COVID-19 phone line at 1-844-243-8749, (Select Option 2) to receive medical clearance and have their badge re-activated.
What other options are available for USW Employees?
Sickness and Accident – S&A benefits may be available for absences greater than 5 days. Employees should contact Leave of Absence to request benefits (688-3800). Waiting periods are waived at this time and employees will receive full pay for the first two weeks of illness.
COVID-19 Leave – 40 hours of paid time off to be used if an employee is ill. Medical documentation OR an Attestment Document will be required. Consult your Labor Relations Representative or the COVID-19 phone line for COVID-19 Leave requests.
Mandatory Quarantine - Employees notified by the Health Department or their medical doctor that they must Quarantine will be eligible for pay during this period if they provide proper documentation from the Health Department or their medical doctor. Consult the COVID-19 phone line to discuss requirements.
Teladoc - To encourage employees who aren’t feeling well to contact a physician so proper protocols can be followed and to help keep from overcrowding local physician offices, urgent care facilities, and hospitals, the Company will reimburse employees for their $10 co- pay for using Teladoc. This will be in effect for the next 30 days (beginning March 19th).
New Hires - For the COVID-19 period, the Company will waive the 90-day requirement to grant medical coverage access for new hires.
Liberal Leave - will be offered until March 31st. Employees are able to take partial days of Liberal Leave during the current COVID-19 liberal leave period.
To read the full COVID-19 USW Resource Guide, visit our website www.usw8888.org and look for more eblasts in the coming days on Local 8888 hours and operations and shipyard updates. Follow us on Facebook at Facebook.com/uswl8888. Sign up to receive text alerts on your mobile devices.
Above all, stay safe, be smart.