Headline News
Waste Workers in Pennsylvania Join Teamsters Local 384
On April 17, workers at Advanced Disposal in East Norriton, Pennsylvania who are fed up with poor and unequal treatment voted to join Teamsters Local 384. There are 119 drivers, helpers and mechanics in the bargaining unit.
“The company waged a vicious anti-worker, anti-union campaign but the workers remained strong and united,” said Michael Bonaduce, President of Local 384 in Norristown. “We will work hard to help negotiate a contract that will give them the fairness and equality they deserve.”
The workers’ top concern has been the company’s refusal to allow them to file worker compensation claims when they get injured. One employee continued to work with a broken thumb after being told he could lose his job. Other workers were threatened with suspensions or terminations if they filed injury claims.
“The workers also are seeking wage fairness and equality—the pay scales are all over the map and some workers who have been employed for many years make about the same as some newly hired workers,” said Chris O’Donnell, Trustee and Business Agent/Organizer. “Another issue is safety. The workers want safer trucks. For example, some of the trucks didn’t have heat this winter.”
Chuck Stiles, Assistant Director of the International Union’s Solid Waste, Recycling and Related Industries Division, assisted O’Donnell in the campaign.
“We are happy to welcome the new members at Advanced Disposal and we know the workers will have a stronger voice as Teamsters,” said Bob Morales, Director of the Teamsters Solid Waste, Recycling and Related Industries Division.