Boeing, an aerospace company known for its commercial airplanes, has locked out its International Association of Firefighters Local I-66 union members who are responsible for preventing dangerous and toxic fires at its plants in Washington state. This move has set a new record, as no fire department has been locked out in the US for over four decades. The dispute stems from Boeing’s proposal to increase the time it takes for firefighters to reach the maximum pay scale from 14 years to 19 years. Despite ongoing negotiations through a federal mediator for two and a half months, no agreement has been reached.
Boeing claims that it fully implemented a contingency plan with highly qualified replacement firefighters to ensure safe operations at its Puget Sound area sites with no impact on business operations. The company offered a higher pay structure and a new compensation plan for firefighters on a 24-hour shift schedule, which could increase the average wage by $21,000 a year. However, the IAFF union argues that the salary offered by Boeing is not on par with local fire departments, leading some members to work second jobs or rely on public assistance to make ends meet. The union accuses Boeing of prioritizing corporate greed over safety by locking out its members.
Boeing’s in-house firefighting service is crucial for quickly responding to fires at its facilities and preventing the spread of flames and toxic emissions. The firefighters must be able to respond within four minutes and provide firefighting support during various operations. The union claims that having these specialized firefighters on-site helps Boeing save billions of dollars on insurance. Boeing has also filed an unfair labor practice charge against the union with the National Labor Relations Board, citing the need to ensure the continuity of operations.
The lockout of Boeing’s firefighters is just one piece of a larger labor negotiation puzzle for the company. Boeing is also in talks with the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers District 751 and W24 in Portland, Oregon. These negotiations cover various sectors within Boeing, including commercial aircraft workers, Defense, Space & Security, and corporate groups. The IAM union is seeking a 40% pay increase and a greater say in the company, including a seat on the board to ensure safety standards are met.
While Boeing states that negotiations with the IAM are progressing as scheduled, union leaders express anger over the current situation at Boeing. The IAM and engineers union SPEEA are seeking a seat on the board, a practice common in Europe but rare in the US. Granting workers a say in the company’s direction could improve safety culture at Boeing. Stephanie Pope, the CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes, has expressed optimism about the bargaining process and aligning with union goals for the future of the company. The ongoing labor disputes at Boeing highlight the company’s willingness to endure negative press to win labor battles.
