Keys to Working with the Union in RTW Programs – Part I

Employers with unions face very different and unique challenges not faced by non-union companies. There are a total of 15 Keys. In Part I we consider the first 6 keys in designing & implementing an effective return-to-work policy. 1. Determine what management rights you may already have to implement a return-to-work program. 2. Negotiate counterproductive clauses out of the collective bargaining agreement. 3. Consider buying out in negotiations particularly onerous clauses, such as minimum manning provisions, limitations on temporary transfer of employees and prohibition on work out of classification. 4. Obtain top management commitment to the program. Educate in-house counsel. 5. Communicate the program to the unions, employees and supervisors by sitting down and talking with them. Approach the most receptive unions first. Use them as a selling point before approaching more difficult unions. 6. Eliminate collateral source payments, such as long-term disability, short-term disability and use of vacation and sick time, effectively allowing employees to earn more when they don't work than when they do. When discussing costs, find out how much it costs to replace the money your company pays for workers' comp on the WC Calculator. Note: Do not use this information without independent verification. All state laws are different. Consult with your corporate legal counsel before implementing any cost containment programs. ©2008 Amaxx Risk Solutions, Inc. All rights reserved under International Copyright Law. If you would like permission to reprint this material, contact Info@WorkersCompKit.com