Boeing engineers gain more influence over safety through new collective agreement

In addition to a enormous salary increase of 25%Boeing's machinists were able to record another major success with their new collective agreement. preliminary agreement A study published by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers shows that the aircraft manufacturer has promised its workers a seat at the negotiating table regarding safety practices.

“The company commits to organizing an annual meeting with the senior business representatives/presidents of IAM 751 and W24 and the chairman of Boeing's Standing Committee on Aerospace Safety to discuss safety-related issues or concerns,” says a letter of intent attached to the agreement.

After a Door stopper has fallen off of a 737 Max 9 operated by Alaska Airlines in January, Boeing's safety and quality control systems came under scrutiny. In the first full contract negotiations since 2008, the more than 30,000 workers represented by IAM District 751 demanded greater say in how these systems are built and reportedly asked for a full-time position. Seat on Boeing’s board of directors.

“The company should want to take care of its workforce so that we can succeed together,” District 751 President Jon Holde wrote in the union’s statement. House newspaper this month. “Not long ago, Boeing had a reputation for doing great things and setting the standard in the aerospace industry with its cutting-edge products. Our members shared that pride, knowing that our livelihood and legacy were and still are tied to every airplane that leaves the factory.”

While the safety committee is not a full-fledged board seat, it is an extension of the board, but the requirement to meet – along with the newly formed “Senior Level Worker Management Committee,” which will meet twice a year – means workers will have more say in the company's operations.

“We now have a seat at the table when it comes to the safety and quality of the production system,” the union wrote in his announcement of the preliminary agreement. “Financially, the company is in a difficult position due to many self-inflicted missteps. It is the IAM members who will get the company back on track.”