P u b l i s h e d b y . International A ssociation of M achinists and Aerospace Workers, tue Machinist AFL-CIO/CLC W ashington, D.C. 20036
VOL. XXXIX FEBRUARY 1985 NUM BER 10
For the not-so-trivi a I answer See p a g e 3 Revolving door in aerospace s e e p a g e 2 America's famous strikebreaker s e e p a g e 8
The MACHINIST I s Read by More than 3,000,000 in all o f the 50 States, Puerto Rico, and Panama Revolving door opens w ay for overpricing "The American As noted in a report by the highly By the Pentagon’s own admis taxpayer has a right respected Project on Military Pro sion, at least 2,200 retired military curement, The problem exists in officers work for companies with to expect and de most government agencies, but it large defense contracts. mand objective and is especially insidious in the Depart independent eval ment of Defense because of the Nobody really knows how many uations of all gov amount of money involved (more thousands of retired or otherwise ernment contracts. than $100 billion per year for pro former civilian employees responsi curement) and because of the pres ble for auditing, examining, check The revolving door sure on military officers (especially) ing and buying from military con should be closed in who are put in charge of weapons tractors now actually work for the order to eliminate a programs at the end of their same contractors they bought from situation that deters careers, to find post-military em or were supposed to regulate. ployment." us from meeting this We could fill the pages of this expectation." Dr. Thomas Amlie, a retired Navy newspaper with examples of this engineer who helped to develop the questionable practice, but space US. Rep. Barbara Boxer very successful Sidewinder air-to- does not permit. So here is but one Fourth of a series air missile, put it this way. , of the more recent. “Trying to fix responsibility for Military officers in charge of pro General Electric last fall hired waste in the Pentagon is like trying curement he noted, are vulnerable James Nelson to become manager to nail Jell-o to the wall,” is the way when a “nice man” from a defense of quality control at its Evendale, Sen. William Roth, R, DE, de contractor “comes around and of OH plait. scribes the scandals of overpricing fers him a job at $50 to $75 and other Pentagon abuses. thousand per year.” If he “stands Nelson retired in June as sys up and makes a fuss about high tems program officer at Wright-Pat- But ¡ferities are reluctant to singie cost and poor quality, no nice man terson Air Force Base in Dayton, out one single cause of the abuses, will come to see him when he re OH. Nelson is credited with playing most agree that the revolving door tires,” Amlie points out. a key role in 1983 in getting a large concept of doing Pentagon busi share for GE when GE was battling ness is high on the list of those What can and does happen Pratt & Whitney over who would causes. under the revolving door policy? produce engines for Air Force planes. Revolving door is the govern The most recently publicized ment practice whereby federal offi case involved Ford Aerospace. The list is long, the practice long cials, both civilian and military— Ford Aerospace and its subcon standing. From time to time in future particularly those in charge of pro tractors, who made the DIVAD anti issues we will be spotlighting more curement decisions—leave their aircraft gun before Congress cutoff such examples. And in next government jobs and rush through funding because of weapons defi month's Aerospace column we will the revolving door into high paid ciency, then hired eight former be providing some IAM sugges jobs with the very companies Army officers—some with direct tions on how to stop the waste and "LETS HEAR IT FOR THIS AMAZIM6 FEAT— whose contracts they awarded, in connections to the development cost overruns without sacrificing spected and/or monitored. and testing of DIVID. national defense and security. SAWIM6 A CORNER OF A BOX IN HALF”
Pentagon contractors stonewall waste charges
Despite mounting concern about Penta Despite reports that as much as $50 billion tions including Marietta, GA, Burbank, Winpisinger also received a critical letter gon waste in purchasing weaponry and other of taxpayers' money is wasted annually Palmdale and Sunnyvale, CA, and Charles from Roy A. Anderson, chairman ofthe board goods and services, the aerospace industry under the present procurement system, Harr ton, SC. at Lockheed, which said in part: "Contrary appears to be staying an offensive course. accused the handful of Congressional mem to the claims in the article, our corporate The industry’s chief spokesperson puts bers and others fighting the waste of “reform In his reply to those letters, iAM President policies and goals have been, are, and will down anybody who is trying to stop the mul- ing it to death." William W. Winpisinger recalled that the continue to be to deliver to the customer high tibiilion dollar waste of taxpayers’ money. series in no way reflected adversely on any quality products and services on schedule The proposals for reform were described workers. at reasonable and competitive cost.” In the face of a series of articles in The by Harr as “micromanagement" which is “for Machinist documenting this pilferage of the the aerospace industry at best confusing and The thrust of foe entire series is that these With the exception of these letters from U.S. treasury and growing Congressional at times paralyzing." corporations are victimizing their employees Lockheed locations, the remainder of the concern, the industry’s answer is to to an even greater extent than foe general correspondence received about the articles “stonewair and hope that the scandal wilt The Machinist series on Pentagon waste public,” Winpisinger replied. “I feel it is incum commended foe IAM. blow over. has brought cries of foul play from some IAM bent on us, as the trade union that represents Joseph A. Simister of Philadelphia, PA, aerospace employers. The Machinist has (aerospace) employees, to point out to Karl G. Harr, president of the Aerospace learned that some aerospace companies wrote to congratulate the union for the ex Industries Association (AIA), publicly stated everyone—our members and the general pose and sent some material on defense have engaged in a campaign to stir up em public—that aerospace workers are not the recently that efforts to reform Pentagon pur ployees against their International Union by contractor rip-offs with his letter. Another chasing habits are counterproductive. culprits behind price gouging and otherfinan- writer in favor ofthe articles, Shirley O. Heron falsely charging that the articles are aimed cial conspiradas as the corporations have at members, not the top managements which of Horseshoe Bend, AR, wrote in part: “And, Harr told a group of reporters in thwarted these same members during the maintained in their public statements. The what can be done about this waste—actually Washington, DC, that “adding new layers of articles In The Machinist clearly show that theft?" (cost) control and impeding the procurement last round of aerospace negotiations. aerospace workers are victimized both as process—and slower procurement invari The union has received several letters citizens (thus as taxpayers) and as The Machinist is hopeful that her ques ably means more costly production." from officers at many lAM-Lockheed loca scapegoats in the swindle," the letter noted. tion will be answered in future issues.
Published by InternatfonafAsaoctationofMactiiittét*; and Aerospace Workers, AFL-CIO/CLC . ^ ' me 1300 Connecticut Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 EUGENE D. GLOVER , Th. MocftfaM te puWtt/wtf menthty amt WILLIAM W. WINPISINGER m.ilrf to wrty m&nbtr in *scor
PAGE 2 THE MACHINIST FEBRUARY 1985 PRIORITY ONE—ORGANIZE Em pty slogan costly to w orkers
R ight-to-W ork rip o ff
Georgia—In 1948 was $442 be state’s per capita income then fell Tennessee—In 1948 was $465 hind thé national average and in below the national average, and in below the national average and in 1983, $1,306 below—a loss of 1983, it was $473 below—a loss of 1983 was $2,136 below—a loss of $864. $601. $1,671. •‘Nevada—Is the only RTW state Texas—This state was $224 below Iowa—In 1948 was $213 above the the national average in 1948 (law national average. This state’s per that has consistently been above the national average. It passed the passed in 1947) and was the same capita income then fell below the as the national average in 1983. national average, and has been law in 1951 and was $531 above at that time. In 1983, H was $766 This is a gain of $224 in relation to below in most years since, in 1983, its 1948 position. it was $980 below—a loss of above—a gain of $235. $1,193. North Carolina—Passed a RTW Utah—Passed the RTW law in law in 1947 and was $427 below 1955 and at that time was $245 Working men and women, and President Harry S Truman ve •Kansas—Passed its RTW law in the national average in 1948. In below the national average per their families, are paying a hefty toed the federal right-to-work legis 1958. At that time it was $6 below 1983, it was $1,898 below—a loss capita income. In 1983, it was price for so-called “right-to-woric” lation (the Taft-Hartiey Act) when it the national average, and remained of $1,471. $2,692 below—a loss of $2,447. legislation enacted by 20 states was passed in 1947. His veto was below until 1972. By 1983, this state since 1947. Idaho may soon join over-ridden by the reactionary Re increased its per capita to $12,247 North Dakota—In 1948 was $61 "Virginia —In 1948 (law passed in that roll of dishonor. publican majorities in the House which is $562 above the national above the national average, in 1947) was $293 below the national and Senate. The legislation forbids average. 1983, this state’s per capita income average. In 1983, it was $431 The regressive legislation is re union-shop provisions, even if em increases to $11,666 which is $19 above and had gained $724 in rela flected in lower wages, fewer bene ployers and worker organizations ■ Louisiana—This state was $1,012 below the national average—a loss tion to its 1948 position. fits, substandard schools and other agree such provisions are crucial below the national average in 1 976 of $80.— "Wyoming—Passed a RTW law in standards necessary for social jus to improved labor relationships. when it passed its RTW law. In tice and economic dignity. South Carolina—In 1954 when it February 1963 and its per capita 1983, it was $1,415 below—a loss income for that year was $9 above Such RTW agreements are en of $403. passed a RTW lawwas $637 below Per capita income in those RTW the national average per capita in the national average. The next year dorsed by much of Corporate it went below the national average, states (see listing below) averages America as a means of weakening come. In 1983, it was $2,498 below, a modest $10,708. In states where Mississippi—Passed the law in and stayed below until 1973, when collective bargaining and making it 1954 and was $866 below the na having lost $1,861 in relation to the free, collective bargaining is en easier to hold down worker wages. national average. Wyoming again went above the na couraged, that figure rises to tional average at that time. In 1983, tional average. It was $226 above $12,186—an additional $1,478. Right-to-work advocates believe it was $3,587 below—a loss of in 1983. they have the votes necessary to $2,721. South Dakota—Was $100 above 'Slates that have exceeded the national average in That difference is even more the national average In 1948 and 1983 pass a bill in Idaho’s Republican- "Nevada is the only RTW state that has consistently startling when comparing worker Nebraska—In -1948 was $128 in 1983 was $1,838 below —a loss remained above the national average in per capita controlled legislature and to over above the national average. This wages in the manufacturing sector. come the expected veto by Demo of $1,938. In RTW states, manufacturing cratic Gov. John Evans. workers earn $322.99. Workers in non-RTW states average Alabama—When this state passed $367.44—a difference of $41.45 a a Yight-to-work” law in 1953, it was week and a staggering $2,155.40 $658 below the national average in a year. per capita income. By 1983, it was Again, major differences are re $2,443 below—a loss of $1,785. flected in jobless benefits in the two Arizona—Passed a RTW law in areas. Mississippi, a RTW state, 1947. The figures are not available pays a maximum weekly benefit of for this year, but in 1948 the state only $115. Illinois, a heavily un was $109 below the national aver ionized state, pays $209. Michigan age. By 1983, it was $1,029 pays $197; Arizona, a right-to-work below—a loss of $920. (for less) state, pays $115. Arkansas—In 1948 was $541 A more tragic difference turns up below the national average. The in per pupil expenditures for public RTW law was passed in 1947 for schools, a key statistic in measur which figures are not available. By ing the quality of education. The 1983, Arkansas was $2,718 below RTW states spend an average the national average—a loss of $2,209 per year for each pupil. $2,177. States which encourage union shop agreements spend an aver Florida—Enacted a RTW law in age $2,472. Only one RTW state 1944. In 1983, its per capita income is at or above the national average, was $92 below the national aver $2,473, in that crucial area, com age. Florida has gained $140 from pared to 19 states which encourage its 1948 standing of $232 below the free, collective bargaining. national average.
1AM members elected State legislators w ith a w orker's point of view
G r e y B i r c h Gelsi Fusco Borrows A small cadre of IAM members may have started a move J. R. Grey, directing rep of IAM District 154, Paducah, has obtained key committee assignments normally reserved ment that could* propel the interests of workers to the fore KY, has served as state representative since 1976 and is for long-time legislators. The IAM member is vice chairman front of state government known as the “voice of labor" in the state. He is held in the of the Labor Committee, chairman of the Subcommittee on highest esteem by his fellow legislators. Transportation of Hazardous Waste, Finance Committee By being elected to their state legislatures the members member and Rules Committee member. are in a unique position to lend first-hand experience in John A. Birch, a member of IAM Local 1650, Kansas deliberations on matters that affect workers’ lives. City, MO, was first elected to the state House in 1978, in the same election that saw a Right-to-Work (for less) bill go Angeleo Fusco, a member of Local 1746A, Southington, down to defeat in Missouri. Now serving his fourth term, CT, is the only Republican of the five IAM legislators. Fusco Experience has demonstrated that workers who are Bitch was recently honored by finishing number five in a is a shop steward and organizing coordinator for his local. elected to state legislatures do not forget their roots or the Now beginning his first term as state representative, he people who elected them. One hundred percent voting rec poll to determine the ten legislators who “best serve the interests of their constituents.” The survey results were de campaigned on the need to enact meaningful plant closing ords on matters affecting workers are the rule, notthe excep termined from a questionnaire answered by the 163 state legislation in his state. tion. House members. Frank D. Borrows, a member of Local 1746, Hartford, Five IAM members are now serving as state legislators, Frederick A. Geisi, a member and past president of IAM CT, has been an active member of his local and is now four state representatives and one state senator. Three are Local 743, Windsor Locks, CT, is in his third term as a state beginning his first term as state senator. Borrows received incumbents and two are newly elected. representative.- Through hard work and long hours, Geisi 48% of the vote in a field of three candidates.
PRIORITY ON E— ORGANIZE FEBRUARY 1985 THE MACHINIST PAGE 3
I IAM delegates at G E -W parley Union al Work set 1985 bargaining priorities
A rbitrator upholds 1AM leaders from locals and dis The IAM also went on record in tricts representing employees of favor of winning strong contract lan "dow n-tim e" pay grievance both General Electric and Westing- guage to protect employees Union reps who represent members in arbitration cases sometimes house hammered out a collective against the numerous technolog find themselves across the table from some of the top corporate lawyers bargaining program in preparation ical changes being introduced by in tiie country. Like lawyers, they too, must thoroughly research past for upcoming coordinated bargain GE and Westinghouse. cases, interview witnesses and prepare written briefs to substantiate their ing with the two giant companies later this year. Representatives at the IAM Con case. ference reported that there has Fred Benedetto, directing rep of District 137, Watertown, NY, recently The lAM-GE-Westinghouse been erosion of bargaining units at squared off with one of the top labor taw firms in central New York at an Conference was attended by 75 Westinghouse and GE locations as arbitration hearing on behalf of 20rnembers of IAM Local 761, Watertown, delegates during a four-day meet great as 50% due to new technol NY. New York Air Brake Co. hired the law firm to fight a grievance that ing last month in Clearwater, FL. ogy. Similar reductions in the work would establish “down-time” pay (630 an hour) for the labor grade seven force have been experienced by IAM employees of the company. The company maintained that tape IAM Vice President George other unions involved in coordi machine operators were not eligible for the pay that is routinely paid other Poulin chaired the meeting which nated bargaining, they reported. machine operators. served as a kickoff for 1985 negoti in addition to strong technology ations. Poulin is a vice chairman of Down-time is paid for employees who may be required to perform work tor of Coordinated Bargaining, urge language, delegates called for sub the GE-Westinghouse Coordinated that intensive efforts to organize the stantial improvements in wages, other than what their jobs'normally entail because company machinery Bargaining Committee (CBC). has broken down. unorganized at both Westinghouse pensions, COLA, a reduction in the and GE locations be continued and workweek and prohibition of man Stating that the case was one of the most difficult he ever presented, Coordinated bargaining, in which stepped up as the union heads into datory overtime. Benedetto reports that the arbitrator ruled in favor of the union and the IAM will participate with other the critical negotiations. awarded the 20 affected members a total of $2,487 in tost down-time pay unions representing employees, Thé IAM proposals wilf be pre and established a precedent for future down-time pay for the tape machine will open with GE on May 14. Coor Delegates took a strong position sented to the Steering Committee operators. dinated bargaining with Westing- against concession bargaining and of the CBC which is comprised of house will begin on June 4. against any attempts by either of representatives of all of the unions The award was particularly gratifying to Benedetto because the money the two conglomerates to slash which are participating in coordi the company paid to retain the law firm was more than the amount awarded During the IAM Conference, del benefits under the guise of health nated bargaining with GE and to the grieved members. egates heard Jim Pinto, IAM direc care containment. Westinghouse. World labor targets S. Africa World leaders of the free trade member, thanked U.S. labor and misery not seen since the Great De union movement have joined South civil rights groups for organizing the pression,” foe black trade union African union leaders in calling for protests, which included the arrest movement has been growing. He ‘‘selective disinvestment" in multi at the embassy of several top lead said these unions have negotiated national corporations whose opera ers, which he said “spotlighted our over 400 agreements covering 2 tions bolster the racist apartheid detention and helped obtain our re million workers. Black trade unions system. lease.” were not legalized by the govern ment until 1979. A delegation of 11 leaders of AFL-CIO President Lane Kirk black trade unions in South Africa land, in a keynote address to the Camay said, “South African came to Washington for a three-day gathering, said, “We have been workers are not looking for an conference with some 150 of their greatly encouraged by the amelioration of apartheid, but for its U.S. union counterparts, civil rights emergence in recent years .of the destruction.” Tofortherfois goal, he leaders, members of Congress, black trade union movement in asked U.S. and international labor and leaders of the International South Africa. organizations to help target com Confederation of Free Trade panies dealing in military, nuclear Unions (ICFTU). Kirkland called on the Geneva- based International Labor Organi and computer technology products O ne m ore tim e — While different points of view zation (ILO) “to investigate the ap that he said were crucial to "prop were expressed on tactics, there palling conditions of black labor In ping up" the white minority govern 'It p a ys to belon g was a consensus that inter- South Africa, including the forced ment. nationallly coordinated efforts by removal of black workers to the This strategy of “selective dis That old IAM axiom ‘‘It doesn’t cost to belong—it pays," has real meaning the trade union movement and by Bantustans,” poverty-ridden, over to one more member, Kirk Nile of IAM Local 559, Madison, ME. investment,” Camay said, was governments are needed to assist crowded black “homelands." To agreed on by his 250,000-member Nile was discharged from his job at Madison Paper Industries for alleged the struggle against apartheid by ward this end, Kirkland suggested labor federation last December insubordination. However shop committee members Jeffrey Clair, Doug South Africa's black majority. that the ILO set up a commission after “long and agonozing debate.” of inquiry similar to those estab las Murray and Ronald Gehrki, along with IAM District 99 Directing Rep Participants in the conference in He said it was decided that “total Edward Vinson, pursued his grievance through the grievance procedure lished in the cases of Poland and disinvestment was not going to cluded Phiroshaw Camay, general Chile. and were successful in the final step—arbitration. secretary of the Council of Unions work in South Africa." He added The arbitrator agreed with the union’s position that Nile was not dis of South Africa (CUSA), who was “The ILO might also consider es that he favored U.S. legislation to charged for just cause and reduced his penalty to a one-week suspension. among 21 labor leaders jailed with tablishing documentation and re bar new investment by U.S. com He ordered the company to reinstate Nile with back pay, including overtime out charge for their role in a mas search machinery to monitor the panies in South Africa. ~ he would have been allowed to work and full seniority. sive two-day “stayaway" strike last conduct of all corporations operat November. Camay and . 10 other ing in South Africa, with regard to Debates over the disinvestment Along with the reinstatement, Nile received two weeks vacation credit unton leaders were released follow their recognition of black workers, issue here and in South Africa in at a time of his selection, his disciplinary record was expunged effective ing international protests which and their observance of universal volves fears that a full-scale pullout January 24,1985, lost time wages totaling $13,478 were awarded. began outside the South African labor standards.” of foreign firms would result in lost embassy here on Thanksgiving jobs for black workers, and that the In photo, from right, Vinson, hands check to Nile as committee members eve. Camay said that, despite a se departure of those firms would re Ronafd Gehrki and Jeffrey Ciair took on. Committeeperson Douglas Mur vere recession in South Africa move any chance that they could ray was absent for photo. Camay, also an ICFTU board which has brought "poverty and influence apartheid policies. "
PAGE 4 THE MACHINIST FEBRUARY 1985 PRIORITY ONE—ORGANIZE Legislative Conference ’ u n i q u e The 1985 IAM Legislative Con the IUD Conference will be “Re ference which opens'in Washing building American Industry.” ton, DC, on Feb. 25 is expected to be the most unique legislative con The IUD conference will also be ference ever conducted by any addressing the issues of interna union or trade association. tional trade legislation, President Reagan’s unfair tax and budget The conference will be structured proposals and the protection of in a special way to emphasize dele workers from health and safety gate input and enable delegates to hazards. participate and learn more fully than ever before. , IAM President William W. Win pisinger urges all delegates to the What makes the conference JAM Legislative Conference to also unique, according to William J. participate in the IUD conference. Holayter, is the fact that three mock Winpisinger will keynote the IAM Congressional committee hearings conference. will be held, enabling IAM dele gates, staff and Executive Council members to actually participate in real Congressional action. Tennessee W alkers cham pions Holayter, director of the IAM Legislative and Political Action de Rod Christianson is a union member with a lot of sense—horse sense, partment, said simulated hearings Three nationally known and respected U.S. Representatives are that is. A member of IAM Local 289, Seattle, WA, and a trustee of the in the House Rayburn Office build expected to play key roles at the 1985 IAM Legislative Conference. Local’s Automotive Machinists Pension Trust, Christianson and his family ing will be as dose to the real thing have developed an interest in Tennessee Walkers. The family participates as possible. “We will even have They each will be doubly welcome because each is sponsoring in various horse shows throughout foe Northwest. a major piece of IAM legislation. press tables, Congressional par in photo above, Christianson is pictured along with all the ribbons he liamentarians to assist us and IAM U.S. Rep. Fortney H. (Pete) Stark, D, CA, a long-time friend of and. his family won following a recent two-day competition. It looks like a officers and members giving tes the lAM and member of the powerful House Ways and Means clean sweep for foe Christianson’s. timony in favor of the legislation and Committee which is responsible for initiating tax .legislation, will asking and answering questions." introduce in Congress foe I AM’s tax program. The three mock hearings will be Holayter explained that Stark’s legislation is nearly identical to Instant m illionaire on the lAM's Tax Justice and Fair the IAM tax program laid out in the union’s Rebuilding America AcL ness bill, the Economic Conversion bill and the Trade Law Reform “The only changes Stark will make in our original bill will be to Quiet. Modest. Unemployed. That’s how friends legislation. update it since it was written a few years ago,” Holayter said. and associates describe Rich Sawaryn, the lAM’s newest multi-millionaire. Each delegate will have an op The second IAM friend is U.S. Rep. Joseph P. Addabbo, D, NY, portunity to attend a hearing on chairman of the House defense appropriations subcommittee. Ad Sawaryn, a member of IAM Local 967, Auburn, each of the three subjects. dabbo has agreed to introduce and. support the vital Economic NY, won $2.7 million in foe New York Lottery last Conversion bill and use his influence to move the bill through foe October, just two days before receiving his layoff “This will be a [earning experi House. - notice from General Electric Corp., where he worked ence for the delegates and will for 17 years in various jobs, including materials equip them in a unique and special The third participant will be the lAM’s good friend, Rep. Frank J. handler and custodian. way to face their Senators and Rep Guarini, D, NJ. Guarini has agreed to introduce trade legislation Sawaryn resentatives when they lobby this based on foe AFL-CIO’s industrial Union Department (IUD) fair Sawaryn was one of three persons to come up priority legislation later in the Con trade legislation.. The Guarini .bill will track in many details the lAM’s - with a perfect six-number match with those drawn for an $8.1 million ference,” Holayter explained. own trade program as spelled out in Rebuilding America. " jackpot He received the first installment of $120,721, less 20% required to be withheld by the Internal Revenue Service. He will receive 19 addi The two-day IAM conference will - “The participation by these three key national legislators will add tional annual installments of a similar amount. The unemployed IAM precede the AFL-CIO Industrial a meaningful dimension to what i believe could be the most exciting member plans to open a small antique shop or other business of his own. Union Department (IUD) two-day Legislative Conference in IAM history,” Holayter declared. “I won’t have to worry about getting up and going to work for a little while,” Legislative Conference. Theme of Sarawyn declared.
'N o m ore Bhopal's .. /
IA M presses cose for
thorough safety law s
The IAM is spearheading a re ing to us who have both an obliga deavored through the media to per newed drive among U.S. trade tion and the opportunity to make suade communities of the absence unions for more comprehensive certain that this same type of tragic of any real danger they might pose. laws to protect workers and com accident will not occur in the United After Bhopal,” Robinson added, munities from foe likes of the States. “that myth no longer exists.” tragedy in Bhopal, India, where toxic gas leaking from a Union Car “Little is yet known of what Robinson was accompanied to bide plant killed more than 2,500 caused the leak of some 40 tons of the hearing by Dick James, an IAM persons and injured tens of this dangerous chemical in Bhopal. member who has worked 17 years thousands of others. But we do know foe present regula at the plant in Institute. James told tion proposed by OSHA (Occupa foe subcommittee that many work IAM President William Win tional Safety and Health Adminis ers there feel "more inspections are pisinger fired the opening salvo in tration) is too weak and inadequate needed in the chemical industry.’’ the drive at last month's AFL-CIO's to protect working people and the Industrial Union Department’s public," the IAM President as Asked by subcommittee chair Safety and Health Conference, serted. man Joseph Gaydos (D, PA) if he which he serves as chairman. Winpisinger told IUD delegates thought foe potential for a Bhopal- that the OSHA regulation “deals type tragedy exists at foe Institute' He pointed out that the IAM rep only with manufacturing” of danger plant, James replied: “I think per resents 1,000 workers at the Union ous chemical substances and sonally that such an incident in In Carbide plant in Institute, WV, “leaves out and ignores transporta stitute is most unlikely. I would hesi M e e t the IAM 'Crunch M onster' which is the only plant in the USA tion, construction, agriculture, and tate to say it is impossible.” gener^ industry.” that manufactures methyl Lou Scripa believes that action speaks louder than words. isocyante (MIC), the lethal gas re Meanwhile, in testimony before Winpisinger called on lUD-af- sponsible for the Indian tragedy. a House Labor Subcommittee on filiated unions to “strike back by And to demonstrate that philosophy, Scripa, who is dubbed the "Crunch Health and Safety, IAM Safety and going to the Congress of the United Monster” by his fellow members of IAM Local 946, Rancho Cordova, CA, Forty tons of MIC—a colorless, States and demand that it take ac recently set a new world excerdse mark to benefit the Sacramento Make- Health Director George Robinson A-Wish Foundation. The Foundation provides dying children with their heavier-than-air-gas—escaped in stressed that American workers tion, and in negotiations, not only foe atmosphere in the Bhopal inci “need strong enforcement of safety with Union Carbide, but any and all last wish. Bob Gregory, president/general directing rep of the local, reports dent. chemical manufacturers and/or that Scriba raised more than $4,000 tor foe Foundation by breaking his and health environmental regula- ; previous world record for abdominal crunches (three-quarter situps) with tions.” employers that deal with toxic "Bhopal was a tragic human dis chemicals and demand protective 51,984, and shattered foe old mark for regular situps by 11,278 with an aster,” Winpisinger told IUD dele Robinson noted that “chemical provisions for all working people in effort of 43,418—all within 22 hours and 10 minutes on Oct. 6. His feats gates, “but it must serve as a warn companies have for too long en those plants." are documented in foe Guinness Book of World Records.
PRIOKfTY ONE—ORGANIZE FEBRUARY 1985 THE MACHINIST PAGE 5 '.j'. . ..■ . ,m .■ . y - ■ .I""'-' . . i ■ 'Super' union ■ ■1 - :'V ■ ! m akes it happen Robert Stephens, president of at Kelsey-Hayes :: Local: 1509 ',and; Cltfford .Fuller, \ Vchref shopsteward point di/t some " £'of the precision: forged products i £ manufactured :■ in’tKe Utica Divir: ■■ fjsion: ,-. Vi ; '■ 1 ■' '-v V ,;- When the nation tuned into the recent Super Bowl, «■.§■ ' -I■' ; : ■ j i. .V: ■ ■ . few football fans realized that IAM members helped ^ »■ K ■ . ■ ' . y, ■. ■.. . - ..■■■■ ■ ' M - ' *. ' “ ■ I ■■ ■ ■•■■ P make that television spectacular possible. IAM Local "■ ■: 1509 represents some 250 members at the Utica, ■ 1 _■ ■ ■ ■* ■ ■sk-a» NY, division of the Keisey-Hayes Company. ■■■ : . ■■■ ■. These skilled workers produce vital components -,:v W . ■ V Philip Sbiroli, setup person and assistant chief shop steward, operates a Ralph Peck inspects dimensions of a precision tur control panel fora Bostomatic 5 Axis Mill used in high-technology, computer bine fan blade in a guillotine gauge used to help for both gas and steam turbines used in generating controlled impeller machining. assure high quality. electricity at utility plants throughout the United States and abroad, according to George Joseph, District 157 directing rep. “Since its founding in 1895, the Utica plant has been known for quality forged products, ” he notes. “In 1942, the company successfully forged turbine blades for the first military jet engine produced in this country.” The firm supplies components for such customers as General Electric and Westinghouse, as weil as military and commercial aircraft both here and abroad, Joseph reports. Keisey-Hayes is a leader in Robert Brondau, Law forging and machining super alloys and much of that rence Welch, Robert proud record flows from the craftsmanship Local Skube and John 1509 members bring to the workplace, he boasts. Draper operate ma Smooth tabor-management relationships have chines in the Electrical Discharge and Electro played a key role in the firm’s success, Joseph be Chemical Machining lieves. Keisey-Hayes may be the best employer in Room. District 157. They treat the workers tike human be ings." The work force was slashed drastically, when the Reagan Recession forced massive layoffs, but some workers have been recalled in recent weeks. “We hope that trend continues, ” he says. Frequent meetings between labor and management help keep operations running smoothly. Shown Keisey-Hayes is a wholly owned subsidiary of the from left are: Jesse Marlin, president and general manager; Alexander Stanko, director of Industrial Fruehauf Corp. and is a major supplier of automotive Relations; Randy Bogar, supervisor of Safety and Security; Charles Bronk, employment manager. wheels and rims at other locations, primarily in the Officials of Local 1509, District 157: James Ryan, assistant chief shop steward; Philip Sbiroli, assistant Midwest. Those facilities, too, are under IAM agree chief shop steward; Robert Stephens, president; George Joseph, directing representative; and Clifford ments, Joseph notes. Fuller, chief shop steward. Photographs on these pages were done by Robert Wentka, a Local 1509 member and Keisey-Hayes V | worker. -:."V
" '. A John Draper places -I. i mcfliendtt; ^ mqi-VV-' : . ^ chined onto q 3. Axis :i Contour Mill.. :
yMbert Monwcalchi, V toolmaker and com , mitteeperson checks a - dimension on a preci ; sibn cold-rolled ; tur ; bine blade, ¿--i- 'V, vV
'smm r. Lester MacMaster, . Addington and : V ^ ? Clifford Corsette oper- VM V; ateroll presses used.to ... ■ roll high temperature U ViVV’rtsrterial iinio;''.a:.ipineq-;'-. sion turbine compres ' sor blade. *'
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PAGE PRIORITY ONE— ORGANIZE FEBRUARY 1985 THE MACHINIST PAGE 7 TRANSPORTATION Sad view from the picket line
Jacqueline Tatum, a striking member of Local 2198, Hous the board of directors of the company and workers now own - • Allow carriers to farm out work presently covered by ton, TX, couldn't believe the view from the picket line. There, 25% of Eastern. . union contracts without restrictions. getting ready to board a flight on the biggest union-busting The wage investment deductions were to last one year • Allow the carriers to cross-utilize workers. . airline in the country, Continental, was former President and terminate December 31,1984. However, on that date Jimmy Carter. EAL president Frank Borman issued a letter to all employees • Allow apprentices, helpers or students to work without First disappointed, she then began to do a slow bum. stating that “wages and salaries established tor all employ the guidance of a mechanic. Finishing her picket duty, Tatum went home and expressed ees will remain at the'fevel set by the 1984 wage investment • Remove restriction tor rearranging forces and/or work, her feelings in a letter to foe former president. program.” including any necessities tor filling vacancies, changing Charles E. Bryan, president/general chairman of District hours of assignments and assignment of rest days. The following are excerpts of her letter: 100, Miami, FL, reports that foe IAM immediately went to “I was disappointed to see you flying on Continental Airlines court to enforce the terms of the collective bargaining agree • Remove restrictions on realigning and combining December 12, Right 57 to Los Angeles. I am sure it is no ment Prior to the court hearing, however, Borman agreed seniority districts. to pay foe January pay increase and requested that the two secret that Continental is still on strike. A company that uses • Set time limits for recall rights. the sham of bankruptcy to rid itself of its obligations to its sides negotiate on the issue. Negotiations were continuing employees really shows a fine example of the American way. as this issue of THE MACHINIST went to press. • Facilitate the carriers’ ability to eliminate continuing costs associated with unnecessary employees. The carriers “I find it very difficult to understand how my company, In a bulletin to the IAM members, Bryan reminded foe have yet to describe what they mean by “unnecessary em with the years so many of us had given them, coukl give worker/stockholders that “we must remember that Eastern ployees”. us just five minutes to leave the property on August 12, Air Lineé did not betray foe employees; Frank Borman did 1983. I find it even more difficult to understand how our . . ." Substantiating Bryan’s charges, a leading industry • Introduce cost containment and cost-sharing provisions Justice system can allow a company to keep wages you analyst said “establishing trust is critical tor successful em of insurance benefits provisions. ' earned (we still have not been paid). ployee participation efforts. Frank Borman’s unilateral deci sion may have blown away the trust built in thé past 12 • Establish carrier's national committee as sole policy “I’m sure this is of no consequence to you. My story is months.” holder of health and welfare plan (do away with the present just one of hundreds that my fellow co-workers could tell. I union/management administration of the plan) understand there are no more elections this year, but I find Ozark countdown—IAM Airline Coordinator Bill Scheri reports that the National Mediation Board has scheduled a • Medical plan to include employee contributions, higher it ironic that you choose to ride a scab airiine and then give deductibles, higher stop-loss provisions and other cost-shar a speech on human rights. ~ public interest meeting in Washington, DC. The Board will mediate the final round of negotiations in an effort to avoid ing provisions. “I hope your flight was a good one. I would also hope a strike by IAM reservation and ticket agents at Ozark. The - • Eliminate four-morrth furlough insurance and revise your ethics and the dignities of many laborers and Demo strike is tentatively set for midnight, February 6. monthly service requirements for coverage in succeeding crats cost more than foe cheap fare on Continental.” Flight attendants choose IAM—IAM Vice President months. To date, Carter has yet to respond to Tatum’s letter. John Peterpaul reports that foe organizing campaign at *. limit extended coverage and benefits and discontinue IAM stalls layoff—Forty mechanics are still on foe job Reeve Atoutin Airlines was successful with the attendants supplemental sickness coverage for furloughed employees. at TWA thanks to the fast action of the IAM Transportation voting overwhelmingly for the Machinists Union. IAM District Dept, and IAM District 142, Kansas City, MO. The members 143 will negotiate the first contract for foe new members • All paid leave to be set at the rate of 80% of the minimum were scheduled to be laid off on January 6, 1985. who were assigned to IAM Local 601, Anchorage, AK. IAM basic daily rate of the last service performed (presently Grand Lodge Rep John Pina was responsible for the or 100%). When TWA announced foe company would discontinue ganizing win. using mechanics to push back aircraft for certain gates, • Suspension of the contract during any work stoppage eliminate both walkaround and tog book inspections and El Al Airlines—The National Mediation Board has called in any part of the railroad industry. , layoff the mechanics at the line stations affected, the District for a negotiating session between the 1AM and El Al Airlines Ironically, while the carriers are demanding concessions immediately went to court to seek a restraining order block on February 6. IAM members have, been on strike at El Al from their employees, the Association of American Railroads, ing foe arbitrary company work rule change and subsequent since March 16, 1984 when the cómpáriy tried to force reports that foe railroads may be on the way to another layoff. . union-busting concessions on them. recoFd profit year. Railroad earnings in the third quarter of Under terms of the Railway Labor Act, when a labor con Allied Aviation lockout—Allied Aviation locked out 1984 increased by 31 % to $769 million over the same period tract becomes amendable foe terms of the contract must members of the IAM Local 1833 when they refused to agree last year. remain status quo until a new contract is negotiated or the to a concession-ridden contract that would have established November figures for new freight cars placed in service parties exhaust all steps of the Act. a two-tier wage scale, allowed tor more part-time help than brought the total for the first 11 months of 1984 to 11,600 toll-time employees and provided no wage increases tor the compared to 5,127 in the previous year. District 142 President/General Chairman Frank Soore re first year. Guy Cook, president/general chairman of District ports that aircraft pushback and foe related work are spelled 143 reports that Allied managements attitude of Takè-it-or- Cumulative volume of freight traffic on major U.S. railroads out in foe TWA/IAM contract and could not therefore be teave-it” has not changed since foe lockout began on De for the first 51 weeks of 1984 was an estimated 904.7 billion arbitrarily discontinued by the company. The company is cember 13. ton-miles, 10.7% higher than the previous year. seeking such a work-rule change in this round of negotia tions which is currently in mediation. However, foe “Everything is up in the railroad in negotiators have not agreed to any such change. dustry,” said (AM Vice President John Rail bargaining Peterpaul, “except the compensation As a result of two hearings in U.S. District Court in Kansas to foe workers who helped make those City, TWA has moved the lay-off date back to February 18. reaches im passe record profits possible. If the carriers A ruling on the injunction which would permanently block think our members are going to accept the layoffs is expected early this month. In a move to get the carriers off dead-center, foe unions participating concessions in the face of record prof in National Negotiations have filed a its, they will have made a serious error notification of impasse to the carriers in judgment. If they test our resolve, and requested foe National Mediation they will find that judgment error will Board to appoint a mediator to foe Peterpaul have been a costly one.” negotiations. In nine months of negotiations the carriers have yet to fully explain to their union counterparts at the bargaining table why they need their long laundry list of concession demands, in light of the record profits they are presently posting. 1AM Railroad Coordinator Bob McCarthy reports that the IAM and the other involved unions have made sin cere gestures to get the negotiations off the ground but the carriers refuse to budge from their demands for un warranted concessions. , Some of the concessions the car riers are seeking include: Preparing for what could be a precedent-setting • Pay freeze (except for COLA) for A long fight ends case, Score reviews the District 142 law suit with McCarthy the duration of the contract Carl Laws, secretary-treas. of the district. with sw earing in • Apply increased COLA effective the January following IAM prevails—Eastern Air Lines agreed last month to the date foe contract is ratified with COLA payments to It was a long tough fight, but the workers at M ar refund to workers covered by the IAM agreement the 18% extent necessary to pay for increased cost of health and riott/Host Corp. employed at JFK and L G A airports pay increase for January, which was unilaterally withheld welfare. finally achieved their goal— an IAM contract. In at the direction of EAL President Frank Borman. • Establish two-tier entry rates of pay tor new hires and photo, far right, Mike CrConnell, president of Local re-entrants from non-active status. 1894. N e w York, NY, initiates tne new members In 1983 the unions at Eastern all agreed to contribute a into tne IAM . percentage of their pay to purchase stock in the company. • Establish temporary positions with reduced pay rates In return the employee unions were allotted four seats on and benefits. -
PAGE 8 THE MACHINIST FEBRUARY 1985 PRIORITY ONE—ORGANIZE AEROSPACE Douglas gets high grade
McDonnell Douglas has been in McDonnell Douglas was also the award, GD—a major IAM em Space launches—In 1984 the men and women can repair satel the national spotlight in recent subject of a major feature in a re ployer—beat out Northrop Corp., United States launched 22 space lites already in orbit. weeks, with reports from several cent issue of Air Transport World, which had been pushing its F-20 vehicles. In the same year, the sources indicating the giant aircraft titled, Transports live at McDonnell fighter, and LTV Aerospace which Soviet Union had 97 launches. Meanwhile NASA is studying company will enjoyabrightfuture. Douglas.” was pushing for the MiG-21, copro several concepts developed to ac duced with China. Among toe U.S. launches, were commodate commercial users of One recent report came from the five Space Shuttle missions. The the Shuttle. firm of Sanford C. Bernstein & Co., That article chronicles plans by McDonnell Douglas to capture an Industry experts say the sale to STS-51 flight retrieved two satel a New York City investment com the Navy is significant because it lites that were put into improper or At the same time many con pany which specializes in analyzing ever increasing share of the airline marks the first time since the early bits. ' cerned citizens are watching to see business in upcoming years. The if and hew the space program wilt aerospace managements. The re article predicts the launching soon 1960s that GD is selling to the port predicts profits will rise by 20 Navy. Secondly, in beating out The solar maximum mission be expanded further to accommo of a new shortened version of the demonstrated that Shuttle crew date military uses of space. to 25% annually through 1988. MD-80 series, the MD-87. Northrop, GD dealt a “stunning blow” to Northrop's F-20 in foreign According to the report, McDon sales competition. nell Douglas will have both a surge in 1984 toe company sold 115 in commercial airline orders and a planes in toe MD-80 series. The According to Defense Week, significant boost in profit margins company is also planning an MD- “Wall Street analysts, congres on combat pfanes. 11X MR, seating 337, an MD-11X- sional partisans of the F-20, and even some Northrop officials view the adoption of toe F-20 by one of the American military services as a necessary condition for foreign sales." G D is selling the F-16 fighters for about $11 million apiece to the Navy.
-- ’ -- Tug-of-war continues—The battle between General Electric and Pratt & Whitney over engine sales to the military continues, with P&W seemingly regaining its earlier supremacy in toe 1985 round. •Í Tv**. /"V , The Air Force announced last While the aerospace industry as 20, seating 331 and an MD-11X-10 month that it will buy 184 engines a whole is “of only average attrac seating 277. from GE in fiscal 1986 beginning in tiveness,” the analysts say, MD is October and 159 from P&W. While “one of the most attractive stocks The photo above shows the pos GE Is still ahead, P&W is now gain in this group." sible McDonnell Douglas airliner of ing. Last year the Air Force bought the 1990s, the propfan candidate 126 engines from GE and only 41 The reports recalls that the com with a high aspect ratio wing, initial from P&W. pany’s purchase of Hughes size of die proposed turbo propfan Helicopter early last year opens toe initially would be at about 100 to P&W used to enjoy the lion's company to toe Army market. The 110 seats. ■ ' share in bygone years, but then lost prediction says the company also a good share of its business from will be delivering as many as 140 GD wins Navy contract— the Air Force to GE. F/A-18 planes in 1987. Aerospace industry watchers are Skilled IAM craftspersons made this scene possible. Shown above buzzing about the coup pulled off The contest will probably con is a major milestone in production of the C-5B plane made by The analysts see F-15 revenues last month by the nation's number tinue next year because the Air Lockheed. This photo taken at Lockheed of Georgia's plant in and .operating profits remaining Force is only giving out one-year one defense contractor, General Marietta shows the joining together of the forward, center and good and, with the plane's selection Dynamics. engine contracts. P&Wengines wilt as toe new dual-role fighter for the be used on the F-16 Falcons. GE's aft fuselage segments. Frank Fanto, Lockheed deputy director of Mr Force, the company will have a The company clinched a $154.7 engines wit go primarily on the F-15 manufacturing on the C-5B, commented during toe recent "mat stable and continued production million sale of 14 F-16 fighters to Eagle, with a small number being ing" process of toe segments; "A well-trained workforce enabled line for F-15s. toe U.S. Navy. In winning the used on the F-16s. us to meet every major milestone with qualify craftsmanship."
Hew TechnologyScience fiction becomes fact Before toe end of this century—just 15 eliminate jobs for blue-collar workers, groups, especially blacks and Hispanics, will years away—the robot-run factory oould be minorities and probably women. likely bear the brunt of toe displacement. They are over-represented in the blue-collar, a fact of American industrial life, reports Dr. Louis A. Ferman, a professor of social Phillip L. Polakoff, director of the Western low-skilled jobs that either wilt be reduced or work and research director of the institute of ■ eliminated by the new technology. Institute of Occupational Environmental Sci Labor and Industrial Relations at the Univer ence. sity of Michigan in Ann Arbor, sees three Women also may feel the effects of a re That’s not science fiction anymore. It’s a possible consequences of far-reaching pro stricted job opportunity structure. The new forecast made in 1977 and 1978 by the So portions: high-level job® in toe unmanned factory in ciety of Manufacturing Engineers. Here are 1. Unwanted workers will require commu all likelihood will require a background in some highlights as reported in The Annuals nity support in terms of income maintenance, mathematics and science. As Professor Fer of the American Academy of Political and resources for training and retraining, and man points out, these subjects traditionally Social Science (November 1983): programs to “heal the psychic wounds of dis have not been central to toe higher education • By 1987, approximately 15% of total placement.” The community will have to curricula for women. machine tool production will not have a spend money and make an effort to meet “stand-alone use, but will be part of a ver the needs that did not exist before the coming For the individual, being out of work from satile manufacturing system, featuring au of the unmanned factory. whatever cause—economic slowdown or tomatic part-handling between stations and technological speedup—can create psycho controlled from a central computer. 2. The need to import highly skilled and logical stress. That kind of stress can show trained personnel—which the hometown up in a number ot illinesses, both physical • By 1990, the development of sensory may not be able to provide in sufficient quality and mental. techniques will enable robots to approximate or numbers—will result in a oommunity of human capability in assembly. Computer- strangers. This will pose problems of social The medical problems may range from aided design techniques will be used in the integration. high blood pressure and ulcers to insomnia design of 50% of new assemblies. 3. An adverse economic ripple effect may and depression. The costs associated with these illinesses accrue to the individuals suf • By 1995,50%percentofthedirectlabor Little research has been done so far in this be felt by smatt, local supplier firms that were vital area of concern. Controversy still sur established to service the needs of the old fering from them, as well as to their families in automation final assembly will be replaced and toe community at large. by programmable automation. rounds the question of whether such “un smokestack industry. Their survival may be manned factories” of toe future will create or threatened if toe new needs are met by So much for what robots can do for us. destroy jobs. supplier units that are within the factory or These are just some of the major issues But larger questions reman about what they affiliated with the parent company. that are coming to a head at a rapid pace. wili do to us—our communities and the indi The best guesses are that they wili do They need to be met with wisdom, realism vidual workers who comprise them, Polakoff some of the first—make jobs for engineers The impact on the individual displaced and—above alt else—compassion for the warns. and technicians—and a lot of the second— worker may be no less devastating. Minority human heart and soul of America.
PRIORITY ON E—ORGANIZE FEBRUARY 1985 THE MACHINIST PAGE 9 Safety and Heauh Union outrage sparks OSHA action
With prodding from unions, the Occupa Announcing the AFL-ClO’s petition for a icans by preventing hearing loss, future dis faceguards should be used to reduce mists tional Safety and Health Administration rehearing, Margaret Seminario, associate di ability and increased health care costs, foe or splashed fluids. (OSHA) has asked for a rehearing on a con rector of the AFL-CIO Dept, of Occupational groups said. troversial decision which struck down the Safety, Health and Social Security, said, “It Shops should have effective forced venti hearing conservation amendment to the may be true, as the court said, that Amer lation in place to minimize Inhalation. Cloth workplace noise rule. icans can suffer hearing damage some Health hazard—IAM members and others ing permeated with the metalworking fluids where other than on the job. But the OSHA who do machining, grinding or other work should be laundered as often as possible. The AFL-CIO earlier had asked to inter standard deals with workplace noise and oc that involves metalworking fluids may be ex Impervious aprons should be worn to avoid vene in the case, citing a concern that the cupational hearing loss, which afflict millions posed to suspected cancer-causing agents, contact. Rubber gloves provide limited pro Labor Department either would fail to chal of workers." reports the Environmental Agency (EPA). tection, but should be replaced often—since lenge the decision by the Fourth U.S. Circuit the fluids penetrate many kinds of glove ma Court of Appeals in Richmond or would not Unions also have expressed concern that, Metalworking fluids may contain a variety terial. - present a strong case for preserving the rule. if the decision is allowed to stand, it could of corrosion inhibitors containing two chem set a precedent with widespread effects on icals, amines and nitrates, which may form The federation’s petition asked the ap nitrosamines when the two combine. NSC reminder — Delegates to foe lAM's peals court for a rehearing on its order to other workplace standards. recent convention overwhelmingly endorsed vacate the hearing conservation amendment Another union official said foe ruling im Nitrosamines cause cancer in laboratory a resolution urging IAM Locals and Districts to the federal noise standard. OSHA has filed animals and are suspected of causing to affiliate with foe National Safety Council plies that “unless exposure to a hazardous and its Labor Division. for a rehearing by the full Fourth Circuit ap substance is.exciusive to the workplace, you cancer in humans. Everyone is exposed to- peals court. can’t impose a safety standard." . some nitrosamines from a variety of sources The IAM was a charter member of NSC’s Under the amendment employers are re in everyday life, the EPA notes. Labor Division and former . IAM President quired to monitor workplace noise levels, “You could apply that logic to standards Roy Siemilier served as president of the or give workers baseline and follow-up hearing on lead, benzene, asbestos and even radon Machinists, however, who use fluids con ganization, as have numerous IAM mem tests to determine hearing loss and provide gas—all of which we are exposed to in our taining the chemicals may be exposed to as bers. One of those is Herb Johnson of Local training and hearing protectors if workplace everyday lives." much as 100 times more nitrosamines daily 1650, Wichita KS, which introduced the re noise exceeds 85 decibels (85 dB) averaged than foe average person gets from all other solution. over eight hours. The permissible exposure On the same day the AFL-CIO requested sources. level under the noise standard is 90 dB. the rehearing, 14 consumer and professional “The NSC Labor Division has made major groups concerned with hearing impairments A recent EPA advisory recommends that contributions to safety, both on and off foe The majority on the three-judge appeals petitioned President Reagan to instruct machinists should avoid skin contact with job,” Johnson says. panel held that foe hearing conservation rule OSHA and the Justice Department To move metalworking fluids containing nitrites and was invalid because they said it required em vigorously to protect this regulation and ap should avoid breathing mists or fumes. - With the Reagan administration commit ployers to be responsible for workers’ hear peal this decision." ted to gutting the Occupational Safety and ing loss from non-workplace hazards. The ideally, workers should avoid using such Health Administration, workers need all the suit was brought against the Labor Depart Reinstatement of the hearing conservation hazardous fluids, foe agency warns, but if help they can get in health and safety mat ment by the Forging Industry Association. amendment will benefit millions of Amer absolutely necessary, shields and ters.
Retirees Reagan eyes Social Security The proud history of a proud union Senior citizens and the organiza ing “freeze” that would help reduce ment for Medicare hospital insur tions formed to represent them budget deficits. Most Congres ance has risen 12.4%. Beginning have sharply criticized President sional Democratic leaders have this year, the deductible for the first Reagan for his recent hedging on been cool to foe idea. day of any hospital stay—which his campaign pledges not to tamper must be paid by the patient—is with Social Security benefits. This year’s COLA, a modest $400. That’s an additional $44-. 3.5%, has already been swallowed Reagan said at a recent news up by rising health care costs. Med At the same time, the premium conference that “if an overwhelm ical Inflation has been running for Medicare Part B, medical insur ing bipartisan majority in Congress" ance, jumps to $15.50 a month, a about 10%, far above the rate ol 6% increase over 1984. wanted to eliminate next year’s So inflation for other goods and serv cial Security cost-of-living adjust ices. It Is the story of an epic ment as a means to reduce the fed While the COLA is certainly wel- struggle to win economic eral deficit, “I would have to look at Since older people require more oome, it’s dear that it’s not covering dignity and sodal justice it." the real cost-of-living increases for working men and medical care than younger people, senior citizens are paying. Until the women. It is the story of A spokesman for the National benefit increases don’t actually President and Congress do some an extraordinary union Council of Senior Citizens, an or cover the real increase bome by thing to effectively control medical and. extraordinary ganization which includes many re elderly persons. oosts, older people will continue to people. The Fighting tired IAM members and other union fall behind. Machinists is Robert G. retirees, said Reagan has done The increase amounts to an av Rodden’s lasting legacy “another of his flip-flops on Social erage $15amonth, but the co-pay It’s something to work for in 1985. to thousands of current Security." and future members of William R. Hutton, NCSC execu the IAM. tive director, said: “Reagan himself Rodden has captured the indomitable spirit of a proud union. As has acknowledged that ‘Social Se we draw closer to the lAM’s centennial, Rodden reminds us the curity trust funds are running at a “eternal struggle for justice on the job is far from over.” This hand surplus and have nothing whatever wïpî'V; u some volume should be in every IAM library. It is destined to become to do with the deficit.’ ' ‘l'fV “ . V' ' "* I'-iJA a classic in labor history. It is available now from IAM Headquarters "Given these facts,” Hutton said, for a mere $5. Simply fill out the attached coupon and drop into “it is mind-boggling that the Presi the mailbox. Checks should be made to GST Eugene Glover.
dent or the Congress would even ,. R ^ te d v l^ consider such a harsh and unfair , maiiirig Tistgrriust cçbntàtt^efr plan." Hutton said, “Statistics just re . ; rmìst s u ^ ìy tlh e ir ^ The Fighting Machinists leased by Data Resources show Room 504 that a one-year delay in the Social 1300 Connecticut Ave. NW Security COLA would push an addi Washington, DC 20036 tional one million senior citizens •' --ftovçâmpfy''lo cu n ij - below the poverty line.” ?rgòf.ttwr" ‘ rünïon Please send me. copies at $5.00 each. Enclosed Hutton said the NCSC would hold is my check or money order for $ ______. Make every member of Congress ac countable on this issue and, if check payable to GST Gene Glover. necessary, will “lead its members into the streets in protest against any attempt to freeze the COLA.” My Name (print) Some influential Senate and House Republicans, including Sen My address (print) ate Majority Leader Bob Dole (R- Kan.), have suggested scrapping City and State (print) Zip next year’s Social Security COLA as part of a comprehensive spend
PAGE 10 THE MACHINIST FEBRUARY 1985 PRIORITY ONi—ORGANIZE After Hours v Consumer S h o p S a g e Home Workshop Watch I don’t want to brag, but here it is February and i've kept every one of my New year’s resoiu-, Sons. I've keptthem in a.manila Airs. Esther M argolius folder on the back of m y work-. IAM Consumer Expert bench. . I wish they woutd quit saying that the White House is in disar Food storage and food care ray. Tome, “disarray" will always With the recent rise in food tained no higher than 0 degrees be the way the Secretary of , prices, care in storing and keep F. Keep a thermometer on hand Labor is introduced in Jersey ing food at home is more urgent. City. for ready checking. Also check around sealer gaskets on doors / don't think Americans are re Where you store your foods for leakage. The dollar bill test will have a big impact on how ally against the M X missile. They is suggested: Close freezer or just don't Siink it’s a good substi long they remain fresh and safe. refrigerator door against a dollar Cabinets under the kitchen sink tute for Social Security. bill. If the bill slips out easily, ft’s or anywhere water pipes pass time for a new door gasket. It kinda makes you tNnk. In should be off limits to food. Pos 1776 this nation dedicated itself sible insect Kid rodent infesta The keys to a good food stor to life, liberty and the pursuit of tion plus damage from water age plan are product rotation, happiness. And here it is almost leakage make these areas un proper packaging and clean 209 years later, and what are suitable for food storage. Keep shelf areas. Relocate older we in pursuit of? Trivia . . . foods away from cabinets items towards the front of your situated near heat sources such shelf to insure they are used up The United States and Russia as stoves and radiators, since first. Many canned and pack have resumed arms talks which heat quickens spoilage. aged items are freshness dated. means Reagan is keeping 'a If some cans are coded rather campaign promise— Mondale’s. than clearly dated, mark them with the date of purchase before Linen luxury you store them. This applies to Laundering bath towels and bed linens will no longer be the refrigerated and frozen items as Kitty Calipers' same dull chore when you can store them in this lovely country- well as canned goods. style linen closet. Rather than stuffing towels under .the sink, Dried foods including cereals, latest patterns taking up valuable room in your own closet, or simply for need flours, fruits, nuts and vegeta of more storage space, keep your linens fresh and clean in this bles should be carefully stored one-piece unit. Three large shelves on top and two smaller to avoid insect problems. Avoid shelves on the bottom, plus a convenienttdrawer for soaps and storing these items near stoves other accessories,-maker this an efficient and attractive piece of or radiators. Transferring items furniture. . such as flour and cereals into Measuring approximately 68" tall, 28V2” wide, and 131A” deep, airtight containers will keep bugs it is built primarily of pine and plywood. Our easy-to-follow plan away and prolong shelf life. Refrigerate ail foods requiring offers step-by-step directions and photos, exploded diagrams, There are some danger signs a shopping schedule and a cutting schedule. To obtain COUN refrigeration. Check food prod uct labels for storage instruc to look for when checking for TRY-STYLE LINEN CLOSET, Plan #735, please send $3.95 spoiled food. Cans or jars that (includes 1 st class postage and handling). tions. In addition, the Food and Drug Administration recom stick to shelves or have bulging Also available for the ambitious home-remodeler who wants mends that certain foods usually sides are trouble; this indicates to completely re-do the bathroom is a 160-page idea book entitled kept in the pantry be refrigerated leaks and possible bacterial DESIGN, REMODEL AND BUILD YOUR BATHROOM, #FM1, after opening. These include contamination. Throw them $7.96. Our latest PATTERNS FOR BETTER LIVING catalog, peanut butter, syrups and away—carefully. Always keep picturing over 700 woodworking and handicraft projects, is only honey. Syrups and honey are cans clean and dust free. Dirt or $1.96. California residents please add 6% sales tax. Send check better protected from mold in other foreign matter on the can or money order to Steve Ellingson, c/o Machinist Pattern Dept., your refrigerator. To soften will be pressed into the food P.O. Box 2383, Van Nuys, CA 91409. peanut butter for use let it stand when the can is opened. at room temperature for a while, The FDA warns consumers ff crystals form in refrigerated against "taste testing” suspect honey or syrup, place the con foods. You don’t have to swallow tainers in hot water before use. the food to be poisoned by the Refrigeration won’t guarantee toxins produced by certain types indefinite food storage, of of bacteria. In some cases, even course. There are certain foods the food's taste is no indicator that should be used within one of safety. or two days of refrigeration, if they are to remain fresh. These include gravies, potato salad, 4834 poultry, fish, liver, kidneys and 10y3-£4’/s giblets. Food placement affects air cir 4862—Scallops are double at culation and efficiency in the re tractive on dress. Printed Pat frigerator. The coldest part of the tern, Misses Sizes 8-18. Size 12 refrigerator is the area nearest the freezing compartment. Milk, (bust 34) takes 2 yds. 60 inch meats and most leftovers should fabric. be in that area. Foods should 4834—Skirt or culottes? Printed if '/
PRIORITY ONE— ORGANIZE FEBRUARY 1985 THE MACHINIST PAGE 11 an astronaut^ T - ’and an Indy-car driver have in common?
Skid, team work and purpose. For nearly 100 years our skills at the bargaining table have helped millions of American workers and theirfam ilies en A stronauts and Indy car drivers are skilled. Y ears of train joy a better life. The M achinists Union is also a team, ing, hard work and dedication m ade them that way. They’re working together on the job and in thousands of commu also part of a team, without which little success could be nities for one purpose: a better life for ad. achieved no m atter how skilled they might be individually. And in order to succeed a person—or an organization— On the race track or in outer space, in more than 350 in must have purpose. dustries in the USA, Canada, Puerto Rico, Guam and Panam a we’re committed to making today and tomorrow Skill, teamwork and purpose. That’s the International better for everyone. Association of M achinists and Aerospace W orkers (AFL- CIO). Come join us.
International A ssociation of M achinists and A erospace W orkers (AFL-CIO, CLC) Th-s is a one-color rep/ml of the lAM's 1300 Connecticut Avenue, NW four-color race car ad and poster, which wilt be available later this month. The poster is W ashington, DC 20036 designed to fit union bulletin boards )n shops and taclones and to be used m high schools (202) 857-5200 and trade schools H your local would tike to hetp place these attractive posters in your community, wnte 1AM CommuhtcatwnsDept, 909Machinists Bldg., Washington, OC £0006 and tell us how many posters you need W illiam W. W in p isin ge r International President
PAGE 12 THE MACHINIST FEBRUARY 1985 PRIORITY ONE—ORGANIZE