Horizon Utilities Collective Agreement: Understanding the Basics

If you`re an employee of Horizon Utilities, a major energy provider in Ontario, you may have heard of the Horizon Utilities Collective Agreement. This is a legally binding document that outlines the terms and conditions of employment for unionized workers at the company.

Whether you`re a new hire at Horizon Utilities or a seasoned employee, it`s important to understand what the collective agreement means for you and your job. Here`s a brief overview of its key components.

Collective Bargaining

First and foremost, the collective agreement is the result of collective bargaining between the company and its union, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) Local 5167. This means that both parties negotiated and agreed to the terms of the agreement, which covers everything from wages and benefits to working conditions and job security.

Wages and Benefits

One of the most important aspects of the collective agreement is how it affects your pay and benefits. The agreement outlines the specific wages and salary ranges for various positions at Horizon Utilities, as well as the benefits that employees are entitled to.

For example, the agreement may specify how much paid vacation time you are entitled to, how much sick leave you can take, and what health and dental benefits are available to you. It may also define what types of overtime pay or bonuses you can expect.

Working Conditions

The collective agreement also governs the working conditions at Horizon Utilities. This can include everything from safety regulations to scheduling and shift work. For example, it may specify how many hours you are expected to work each week, what breaks you are entitled to, and what equipment or tools you are required to use.

Job Security

Finally, the collective agreement can provide job security for Horizon Utilities employees. This can include provisions that protect workers from layoffs or job loss due to company restructuring or outsourcing. It may also outline grievance procedures that employees can use if they feel that their rights have been violated.

In summary, the Horizon Utilities Collective Agreement is a crucial document that governs the terms and conditions of employment for unionized workers at the company. By understanding the key components of the agreement, you can ensure that you know your rights and responsibilities as an employee of Horizon Utilities.