Union’s Efforts Result in New Rest Break Procedures for Osco Pharmacists
Last year, Osco unilaterally implemented a biometric system without bargaining with the Union first. This change prevented pharmacists from taking uninterrupted breaks. Teamsters Local 727 brought this issue to Osco’s attention and subsequently filed a grievance against Osco.
When the Parties were unable to resolve the grievance, Local 727 submitted it to arbitration. A settlement was recently achieved, however, and going forward, head pharmacists will be scheduling breaks and meal periods, as outlined in Section 3.3 of the collective bargaining agreement. Per the existing CBA, “all meals and rest periods shall remain UNINTERRUPTED except in the event that the absence of the pharmacist may cause a negative impact on the safety and welfare of the patient.”
Additionally, head pharmacists will provide the break schedule to his or her district pharmacy manager. The DPM will then provide the break schedule to the store director, assistant store director and/or night shift manager. To ensure that mandatory breaks occur, pharmacists who are working alone will partner with a store manager, store director, and/or night shift manager to ensure they receive their breaks, and immediately report any difficulties to their DPM.
The Union has articulated its concerns to Osco that these changes may not go far enough to solidify uninterrupted breaks. As such, the Parties have agreed to a 60-day trial period during which the changes outlined above will be maintained. The trial period is set to begin in early March and pharmacists should be receiving notice from Osco shortly.
During the 60-day trial period, pharmacists are encouraged to speak up and inform Local 727 any time they are unable to take an uninterrupted break. In the coming weeks, pharmacists will receive a survey about the effectiveness of these break changes and any existing issues.
If pharmacists are unable to take an uninterrupted break or have questions about the new procedures, contact Local 727 Osco Business Representative Zach Frankenbach at (847) 696-7500 or [email protected].
Nothing in this article should be read as the union’s waiver of any legal argument, position or additional grievance. The union does not forfeit its right to make any and all supplemental arguments.
