Labour union wants to prohibit UPS from using drones, driverless vehicles

In new contract negotiations, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters is looking to prohibit UPS from using drones or driverless vehicles for parcel delivery.

The Teamsters also seek an end to late-night deliveries, and are pushing for the employment of another 10,000 workers at the company.

Teamsters, which has 260,000 members who are UPS employees, is negotiating a new contract with UPS ahead of their current agreement’s expiry in July.

The 83-page document submitted to UPS addresses changes that have occurred in the industry within the last five years, including a surge in online retail, which has resulted in longer working hours for employees. The document also cites unsafe working conditions and overloaded trucks.

“It is the company’s responsibility to hire and maintain a sufficient workforce to service its customers without unreasonably burdening its employees,” it says.

UPS spokesperson Steve Gaut responded: “UPS will negotiate in an environment of mutual respect and looks forward to rewarding employees for their contribution to our success.”

(Source: Wall Street Journal)