Management's "Job"
It is the responsibility of management to provide safe working conditions in all installations and develop a safe working force.
What is Article 14 Section 1 of the National Agreement
HIPP Kicks in from April 1 through October 31, or whenever the heat index is expected to exceed this temperature
What is 80 degrees Fahrenheit.
M-39 Section 242.341
M-41 requires carriers to work safely, report hazards and use this to protect themselves.
What is good judgement.
As the heat index rises, management must increase the frequency and length of these.
What are comfort stops.
This section requires the Postal Service to comply with OSHA Standards, including the General Duty Clause for recognized hazards like extreme heat.
What is Article 14 Section 3.D
All carriers and supervisors must complete this annual training on the clock before this date each year.
During route inspections, examiners must not suggest or forbid these.
What are rest or comfort stops.
If your vehicle's A/C fails in extreme heat, report it immediately and use this per M-41 and Article 14.
What is discretion for safety/file PS Form 1767.
This says new workers should start at no more than 20% of normal heat exposure on day one, increasing gradually.
What is the "Acclimatization rule"
Under this article, managment must protect carriers from hazards likely to cause death or serious harm - Including Heat
What is the OSHA General Duty Clause (enforced by Article 14)
New or returning carriers (after absence) need this under HIPP and NIOSH to prevent heat illness.
What is acclimatization (gradual exposure over 7-14 days).
M-39 and Article 14 together require management to adjust operations for this.
What is safety.
This gives Carriers the right to stop for safety (including heat) without fear of discipline.
What is M-41 Carrier Duties (Work)
This free app is available for download to check real time heat index on the street.
What is the OSHA Heat Safety Tool App.
Management violates this article when it fails to address reported heat hazards or denies reasonable safety accommodations
What is Article 14
If symptoms appear, HIPP and Article 14 require this first - no finishing the route or paperwork delays.
What is immediate medical attention (911 if severe)
Examiners cannot discuss mail volume or route evaluation with you on the day of inspection.
What is M-39 inspection rules.
What is PS Form 1767
Symptoms like dizziness, nausea, or confusion mean you should immediately do this.
What is stop, get to shade, drink water, seek help.
The Union cooperates with and assists management to fulfill responsibilities under this article while enforcing carrier rights.
What is article 14, section 1.
HIPPS three core prevention strategies.
What are water, rest, and shade.
If management tries to penalize you for reasonable comfort stops, cite this handbook section.
What is M-39 section 242.341
Carriers must never ignore symptoms but always prioritize this over the mail
NIOSH recommends this 7-14 day process for new or returning carriers after an absence.
What is acclimatization.