Workers Demand Union at USF Dugan

Public and Worker Safety Main Reason for Move

WASHINGTON, Feb. 12 -- As part of a national organizing campaign, the truck drivers, dockworkers, mechanics, and other employees at the USF Dugan terminal in Kansas City, Kansas, filed a petition with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) for an election to recognize the workers' desire to be represented by Teamster Local 41 on Monday, February 9, 2004.

"We're tired of being ignored -- especially when it comes to our safety and the safety of the public on the highways," said mechanic Harold Sullivan. "Our union will give us the strength to make sure the company does the right thing."

Drivers at the Kansas City terminal have complained about lax maintenance and being required to drive in unsafe conditions, while dockworkers talk about unsafe forklifts and other equipment.

"There are just too many issues that management isn't addressing and we feel we should have a voice in," explained over-the-road driver Doug Monasmith. "Things like safety -- on the road and on the job -- and protection for our future. A union is the best way for us to be heard."

A committee of 30 workers presented a petition signed by an overwhelming majority of employees to the terminal manager on Monday demanding recognition of their union. When they received no response from management, Local 41 filed the petition with the Kansas City office of the NLRB.

The next step is for the NLRB to determine a date for the election to be held-usually within 6 to 8 weeks.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents more than 1.4 million hardworking men and women throughout the United States and Canada.