Every region reports problems with inadequate training as Canada Post rolls out the A62 Letter Carrier Workstation across Canada.

In some locations employees are simply shown a 5 minute video, without any instructions on how to properly adjust the A62 to fit their size, and without the opportunity to practice using the A62 case.

This failure to properly train is happening despite Canada Post’s obligations under Articles 33.02 and 40.05 of the Urban Operations collective agreement – and despite specific promises made in the Memorandum of Agreement on the A62, signed November 2007.

From the Memorandum of Agreement between Canada Post Corporation and the Canadian Union of Postal Workers signed November 2007

“2. The established training program for employees working at the A62 case is provided to all employees who are required to use the A62 case.”

From Canada Post’s A62 Letter Carrier Workstation - Training Program Lesson Plan (revised December 2006) – the “established training program” referred to above.

Methodology (p. I)

“This Lesson Plan provides the timing and instructions to facilitate the workshop. The workshop is designed to last about 2 hours, depending on the size and requirements of the group.”

Course Overview (p. IV)

“The timing is based on the workshop lasting 2 hours or 120 minutes. Time requirements can be modified based on your needs and those of the participants.”

Time/Define (p. 2)

“During the next 2 hours, we will discuss the value and benefits of the new A62 workstation…”

What to do (p. 2)

“Note: Determine ahead of time if two hours is sufficient. You may want to adjust the timing for this training.”

Appendix 1 – Questions and Answers

“1. Will the Letter Carriers use live mail during the training session?

Very likely. Each Region will be equipped with a dedicated workstation for training purpose and will use test mail.

2. Will we train relief people at the same time we train the Letter Carriers?

Yes. The relief Letter Carrier in the stations that receive the new LC Workstation will be trained.

3. Will training be centralized?

Possibly. Where multiple stations within a Region get the new workstation, it may be more efficient to centralize the training sessions. The final logistics for the rollout will be coordinated locally.

4. Who actually coordinates the training logistics?

Regional/Local training Managers will be coordinating training and will work out the details.

5. Are there any instructions to set-up the new workstation?

Yes, instructions and guidelines on the set-up of the new workstations will be made available to Supervisors and trainers.”

Without adequate training, members may not properly adjust the height and width of the A62. Working on an A62 case that is not properly adjusted to the letter carrier’s size poses an ergonomic risk and could lead to injury.

Locals should raise this issue at Local Joint Health & Safety consultations and demand proper training. If CPC refuses, the local should grieve under Articles 33.02 and 40.05, and the Memorandum of Agreement on the A62, signed November 2007.