This episode continues the 6-day count education series, focusing on the procedures and regulations outlined in the 2018 NALC Route Inspection Pocket Handbook. Corey begins with listener shout-outs and promotes the "Tallest Nail" podcast, which focuses on CCA issues and the upcoming contract vote. He then announces upcoming episodes, including a discussion with Charlie Miller and an episode on how to effectively communicate with and challenge narcissistic individuals.
The main focus is a detailed explanation of the route inspection process, emphasizing the importance of meticulous record-keeping, accurate time recording, and understanding the specific requirements for various line items on the 1838c form. Corey stresses the importance of challenging management's attempts to manipulate data and impose arbitrary time limits, emphasizing how management often tries to deduct time for seemingly minor activities. He stresses the need to challenge management's attempts to use the 1840-R as definitive proof of agreement and to use the opportunity of the carrier consultation to actively challenge any proposed adjustments. He highlights the crucial role of shop stewards in educating carriers and ensuring their rights are protected during the inspection. He reminds listeners that the lack of a street standard prevents management from setting arbitrary paces or time limits for tasks performed on the route and that this must be asserted in any challenge to time deductions or route adjustments.
Corey discusses several examples of management's attempts to manipulate data and intimidate carriers during 6-day counts, providing specific examples and emphasizing the need for strong, proactive responses. He stresses the importance of filing grievances to challenge management's actions and to ensure that all relevant information and documentation is included in those grievances. He provides detailed instructions on how to complete the necessary forms and emphasizes the importance of accurately recording all time entries and of noting any discrepancies or instances of management misconduct.
He then criticizes the lack of leadership and education provided by the national union in addressing these issues and emphasizes that this lack of leadership has emboldened management to engage in increasingly aggressive tactics. He urges members to remain vigilant and to actively challenge any attempts by management to manipulate data, impose arbitrary time limits, and to engage in intimidation tactics. Corey highlights the importance of using the route inspection process as an opportunity to expose management's incompetence and secure favorable settlements for letter carriers. He closes by promoting the upcoming "Vote No" campaign and emphasizing the need for a more militant and member-focused union approach.