IBEW Local 613 and our signatory contractors have worked together to best deal with the coronavirus from the beginning. In this letter, Safety Director Mike Bell urges signatory contractors to work with general contractors to keep job sites sanitary and encourage tradesmen and tradeswomen to stay home if they are not feeling well or experience COVID-19 symptoms.
On March 21, IBEW Local 613 sent a checklist to our signatory contractors. The document provides educating information about the coronavirus, symptoms and transmission. The checklist was developed to help signatory contractors develop plans and be prepared to adapt as the pandemic runs its course.
You can find the checklist here.
As essential workers, IBEW Local 613 members have continued to work throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. As per keeping with our high standards of providing highly skilled and reliable electricians and electrical workers to our signatory contractors, drug testing has continued.
WorkRight, the drug testing agency of IBEW Local 613 has updated their procedures for testing. Some of these procedures include limiting the number of people in the office, reduced hours and more. They have hung this sign on their office for visitors to read.
IBEW Local 613 Business Manager Kenny Mullins and President Kevin Swanson went on the Union Up podcast to answer important questions with regards to COVID-19 and how it has affected pay and benefits.
You can listen to the show and find a transcript of the episode here.
The AFL-CIO has compiled resources and split them into categories. Members can find resources and benefits to help replace lost wages, eligibility requirements for emergency paid leave, housing and food assistance programs and health insurance and public health services and guidance.
Please open this link and select your state to access these AFL-CIO resources.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the possibility of a lack of work, Vanguard is allowing IBEW Local 613 members to apply for a one-time withdrawal of funds from their pension. Although there are some restrictions and requirements, Vanguard is working to help those who have come under financial hardship due to the global pandemic.
You can find the withdrawal application form here.
IBEW Local 613 and our affiliated contractors have taken this global pandemic seriously. If you have any concerns about job site sanitation or unsafe working conditions, please contact the Local 613 Union Hall at (404) 523-8107. It is our goal to ensure all members can work through this pandemic safely.