Enhancing Predictability: Union Pacific Commits to Improved Schedules for Union Rail Workers
Railroad operator Union Pacific has reached a tentative agreement with the Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers and Trainmen (BLET) to implement more predictable schedules for workers. The proposed 11-day on, 4-day off schedule for locomotive engineers aims to improve staffing levels and enhance service reliability.
The agreement affects approximately 5,600 Union Pacific locomotive engineers, with ongoing negotiations focusing on other areas like sick time and quality of life improvements. These developments follow similar agreements by CSX Corp. and Norfolk Southern Corp. to provide benefits like paid sick leave to their union employees. The changes are expected to significantly improve working conditions and quality of life for railroad workers.
The union representing nearly 9,300 workers at Canada’s top two rail companies is signaling a potential work stoppage due to stalled negotiations over working conditions and wage hikes.