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The USPS Grievance Process 8190 form is an essential tool for postal employees who wish to address workplace grievances. This form serves different sections that guide both the union and management through the grievance procedure. It begins with an informal step, allowing a shop steward to gather necessary details like the grievant's name, employee identification number, and the specifics of the incident in question. If the issue isn't resolved at this stage, the process moves to a formal step where parties complete additional sections. Here, the grievance number and issue statement are recorded, alongside undisputed facts and detailed arguments from both the union and management. Each party can list supporting documents, and they are encouraged to detail any settlement offers made during discussions. By keeping a clear record through the USPS Grievance Process 8190 form, employees and unions can efficiently navigate disputes while ensuring all aspects of the matter are thoroughly documented and addressed.

Usps Grievance Process 8190 Example

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Date Received at Step B (MM/DD/YYYY)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

USPS-NALC Joint Step A Grievance Form

INFORMAL STEP A — NALC Shop Steward Completes This Section (See instructions on page 2.)

 

 

1.

Grievant’s Name (Last, first, middle initial)

 

 

 

 

2.

Grievant’s Telephone No. (Include area code)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3.

Seniority Date (MM/DD/YYYY)

4 Status (Check one)

 

 

 

5.

Grievant’s Employee Identification Number (EIN)

 

 

 

FT FTF

PTR

PTF CCA

 

 

 

 

 

6.

District, Installation, Work Unit, ZIP Code®

 

 

 

 

7.

Finance No.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

8.

NALC Branch No.

9. NALC Grievance No.

 

10. Incident Date (MM/DD/YYYY)

11.

Date Discussed With Supervisor (Filing date)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

12a

Companion MSPB Appeal?

Yes

 

No

 

12b. Companion EEO Appeal?

Yes

No

13a. Supervisor’s Printed Name, Initials, and Telephone No.

 

13b. Steward’s Printed Name, Initials, and Telephone No.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

FORMAL STEP A — Formal Step A Parties Complete This Section (See instructions on page 2.)

14.USPS Grievance No.: Obtain prior to Formal Step A meeting.

15.Issue Statement: Provide contract provision(s) and frame the issue(s).

16. Undisputed Facts: List and attach all supporting documents. Use additional paper if necessary. Attachments? No Yes Number ____

17. UNION’S full, detailed statement of disputed facts and contentions: List and attach all

Attachments? No Yes Number ____

supporting documents. Use additional paper if necessary.

 

18. MANAGEMENT’S full, detailed statement of disputed facts and contentions: List and attach all Attachments? No Yes Number ____

supporting documents. Use additional paper if necessary.

19a. Union Representative: Enter the remedy requested by the union.

19b.

Settlement Offer: List any settlement offers by either party on page 3.

 

20. Disposition (Check one) Resolved Withdrawn Not Resolved

Date of Formal Step A Meeting (MM/DD/YYYY)

21a.

USPS Representative’s Name

21b. Telephone No. (Include area code)

21c. USPS Representative’s Signature

21d. Date (MM/DD/YYYY)

22a. NALC Representative’s Name

22b. Telephone No. (Include area code)

22c. NALC Representative’s Signature

22d. Date (MM/DD/YYYY)

PS Form 8190, March 2016 (Page 1 of 3) PSN 7510-05-000-4168

Instructions

If the initial filing discussion between the steward (and/or employee) and the supervisor at Informal Step A does not resolve the grievance, the union steward may appeal the grievance by:

Completing the Informal Step A section at the top of page 1;

Obtaining the supervisor’s initials in Item 13; and

Forwarding the form along with all relevant documents that were shared and discussed at the Informal Step A meeting to union and management Formal Step A representatives within 7 days of the discussion.

INFORMAL STEP A — NALC Shop Steward Completes This Section

Item Explanation

1–9 Self-explanatory. All items are essential.

10Enter the date when the event causing the grievance occurred or when the employee or union first became aware of the event.

11Enter the date the employee and/or the union first discussed the grievance with the immediate supervisor at Informal Step A. This is the Step A filing date.

12a Determine whether the grievant has filed an MSPB appeal on the same issue. Indicate “yes” or “no.”

12b Determine whether the grievant has filed an EEO appeal on the same issue. Indicate “yes” or “no.”

13a To be completed by supervisor, whose printed name and initials confirm the date of the Informal Step A discussion.

13b To be completed by steward, whose printed name and initials confirm the date of the Informal Step A discussion.

FORMAL STEP A — Formal Step A Parties Complete This Section

Item Explanation

14Management Representative: Obtain the Grievance Arbitration Tracking System (GATS) number before the Formal Step A meeting. If necessary, call District Labor Relations for assistance. Record GATS number.

15Frame the issue statement in the form of a question. For example:

Was there just cause for the letter of warning dated 7/15/2011 issued to the grievant for unsatisfactory work performance, and if not, what is the appropriate remedy?

Did management violate Article 8.5.G when the grievant was required to work overtime on 8/15/2011, and if so, what is the appropriate remedy?

List specific contractual or handbook provisions that apply to the grievance.

If discipline is involved:

Always indicate the type of discipline (letter of warning, 7-day suspension, indefinite suspension, etc.) in the issue statement.

The union steward may write a suggested issue in Item 15 when appealing to Formal Step A. The parties at Formal Step A are responsible for defining the issue as they see fit.

Note: If the grievance is resolved at Formal Step A, skip to Item 20, note the principles of the agreement, and complete items 21–22. If the grievance is not resolved at Formal Step A, complete Items 16 through 22.

16Management and/or Union Representative: List all relevant facts not in dispute.

17Union Representative: List any facts in dispute based on your understanding of the facts. Provide concise, descriptive statements outlining the union’s position on the grievance.

18Management Representative: List any facts in dispute based on your understanding of the facts. Provide concise, descriptive statements outlining managements’ position on the grievance.

19a Union Representative: Enter the remedy requested by the union.

19b Management and/or Union Representative: On page 3, list any settlement offers made at Formal Step A.

20Management and/or Union Representative: Note whether the case is resolved, withdrawn, or not resolved. If resolved, note the principles of the agreement.

21–22 Formal Step A parties must enter names, telephone numbers, signatures, and date form is completed.

PS Form 8190, March 2016 (Page 2 of 3)

USPS-NALC Joint Step A Grievance Form

FORMAL STEP A — Formal Step A Parties Complete This Section

19b. Management Settlement Offer (if any)

19b. Union Settlement Offer (if any)

Formal Step A Parties Provide Mailing Address

USPS Formal Step A (Print street, city, state, and ZIP Code®)

NALC Formal Step A (Print street, city, state, and ZIP Code)

NOTE: If grievance ultimately goes to arbitration, this page MUST be removed from the file prior to submitting the case to the arbitrator.

PS Form 8190, March 2016 (Page 3 of 3)

Form Characteristics

Fact Name Description
Date Received The grievance form must be timestamped with the date received at Step B. This is crucial for tracking the timeline of the grievance process.
Grievant's Information Essential details of the grievant must be filled out, including name, telephone number, and employee identification number, to identify the individual raising the grievance.
Seniority Date The grievant's seniority date is a key piece of information that can influence the case. This date is crucial for understanding employee rights and benefits.
Status Options Grievants must select their employment status from options such as Full-Time, Part-Time, or City Carrier Assistant. This categorization helps in contextually understanding the grievance.
Response Time U.S. Postal Service management has a defined period to respond to grievances, emphasizing the importance of timely communication in resolving issues.
Attachments Required Grievances should be supported by evidence. Both union and management need to attach relevant documents to substantiate their claims and positions.
Union and Management Responses Both parties must submit their assessments regarding disputed facts. Clarity in these statements helps in guiding further discussions or mediation.
Final Disposition The form must indicate whether the grievance was resolved, withdrawn, or remains unresolved. This record is vital for potential next steps, including arbitration.

Guidelines on Utilizing Usps Grievance Process 8190

After completing and submitting the USPS Grievance Process 8190 form, it will be reviewed by both the union and management representatives involved. The next steps involve discussions and potential resolutions regarding the grievance itself. It's crucial to ensure that all sections are filled out accurately to facilitate a smooth process.

  1. Begin by entering the Date Received at Step B in the MM/DD/YYYY format at the top of the form.
  2. Complete the Informal Step A section as follows:
    • Grievant’s Name: Fill in last name, first name, and middle initial.
    • Grievant’s Telephone No: Include area code.
    • Seniority Date: Enter the date in MM/DD/YYYY format.
    • Status: Check one option: FT, FTF, PTR, PTF, or CCA.
    • Grievant’s Employee Identification Number: Input the employee ID number.
    • District, Installation, Work Unit, ZIP Code: Provide relevant details.
    • Finance No: Include the finance number.
    • NALC Branch No: Enter the corresponding branch number.
    • NALC Grievance No: Fill in the grievance number.
    • Incident Date: Enter the date when the incident occurred in MM/DD/YYYY format.
    • Date Discussed With Supervisor: Provide the date of the initial discussion in MM/DD/YYYY format.
    • Companion MSPB Appeal: Check “Yes” or “No” as applicable.
    • Companion EEO Appeal: Check “Yes” or “No” as applicable.
    • Supervisor’s Printed Name, Initials, and Telephone No: Ensure the supervisor completes this.
    • Steward’s Printed Name, Initials, and Telephone No: The steward should fill this out.
  3. Proceed to the Formal Step A section:
    • USPS Grievance No: Obtain before the Formal Step A meeting.
    • Issue Statement: Clearly frame the issue in question format and include any relevant contract provisions.
    • Undisputed Facts: List all facts agreed upon and indicate if there are supporting documents.
    • Union’s Full Statement: Outline disputed facts and attach necessary documents.
    • Management’s Full Statement: Provide management’s perspective and attach supporting documents.
    • Union Representative’s Remedy Requested: Enter the requested remedy.
    • Settlement Offers: Mention any offers made by either party.
    • Disposition: Check whether the grievance is Resolved, Withdrawn, or Not Resolved.
    • Date of Formal Step A Meeting: Enter the date in MM/DD/YYYY format.
    • USPS Representative’s Information: Enter name, telephone number, signature, and date.
    • NALC Representative’s Information: The same must be done for the NALC representative.
  4. Make sure all necessary signatures and dates are completed.

What You Should Know About This Form

What is the purpose of the USPS Grievance Process 8190 form?

The USPS Grievance Process 8190 form is used to formally document disputes between employees and management within the United States Postal Service. This process allows employees, represented by the National Association of Letter Carriers (NALC), to address grievances related to workplace conditions, disciplinary actions, or contractual violations. The form facilitates communication between the union and management and helps ensure that each side is clear about the issues at hand.

How do I initiate a grievance using the 8190 form?

To start the grievance process, the grievant, typically an employee, should first discuss the issue informally with their supervisor. If no resolution occurs, they complete the Informal Step A section of the 8190 form. This includes providing basic information like their name, telephone number, and details about the grievance. The form must then be submitted along with relevant documentation to the union within seven days of the discussion. The supervisor’s initials confirm that the informal discussion took place.

What happens after the grievance is submitted?

After the grievance is submitted, it moves to Formal Step A. This step involves a meeting between the union representative and management to further discuss the grievance. Both parties will present their perspectives, and any disputed facts will be documented. If the grievance is resolved during this step, the representatives will note the principles of the agreement. If not, further steps may be taken, including potential arbitration, if necessary.

What should I include in the issue statement on the form?

The issue statement should clearly articulate the problem being addressed, framed as a question. For example, you might ask whether there was just cause for a disciplinary action taken against the grievant. It's important to reference specific contractual provisions that relate to the grievance. Including this detail ensures both parties understand what is being disputed and sets the stage for discussion.

Common mistakes

Filling out the USPS Grievance Process 8190 form accurately is crucial, yet many individuals make common mistakes. One significant error occurs in item 1, where the grievant’s name is recorded. Insufficient detail or incorrect order of the name can cause confusion. It is essential to clearly list the last name, followed by the first name and middle initial.

Another frequent oversight involves the telephone number in item 2. Leaving off the area code is a common mistake that can lead to miscommunication. When listing the telephone number, ensure that the area code is included to facilitate prompt contact.

Many individuals fail to provide their seniority date in item 3. This date holds importance in determining entitlements related to the grievance. Ensure that this date is complete and formatted correctly as MM/DD/YYYY.

In item 14, obtaining the USPS Grievance Number ahead of the Formal Step A meeting is crucial. Failing to do so can impede the process. Ensure that this number is secured before proceeding with the meeting.

Item 15 requires a well-framed issue statement. A vague or poorly formulated statement may leave room for misinterpretation. This section should pose a clear question framed around specific contractual provisions.

Listing only a few or entirely missing the supporting documents in item 16 is another common mistake. Providing comprehensive and relevant documentation is vital to bolster your position. Attach all necessary documents and verify that they are clearly labeled.

Additionally, confusion often arises when detailing disputed facts in items 17 and 18. Here, it’s important to list both the union’s and management’s perspectives clearly and concisely. Vague statements can weaken the argument.

Many grievants neglect to indicate the remedy requested in item 19a. Clearly stating what you seek helps to establish a goal for resolution. Be direct and assertive in articulating your desired remedy.

Lastly, ensure that all parties involved sign and date the form in items 21 and 22. Failing to complete this might render your grievance invalid. Each section must be thoroughly reviewed for completeness before submission.

Documents used along the form

The USPS grievance process is a structured way to resolve workplace disputes. Along with the USPS Grievance Process 8190 form, several other forms and documents are often needed to ensure a smooth and thorough grievance procedure. Each of these documents plays a different role in facilitating communication between employees, union representatives, and management. Below is a list of key forms you may encounter during this process.

  • MSPB Appeal Form: This form is used if the grievance involves a disciplinary action and the grievant chooses to appeal to the Merit Systems Protection Board. It outlines the grounds for appeal and allows for further consideration beyond the internal USPS process.
  • EEO Complaint Form: If the grievance relates to discrimination or harassment, this form allows the grievant to file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. It details the nature of the alleged discrimination and initiates an investigation.
  • Union Authorization Form: This document signifies that the employee agrees to have their union represent them throughout the grievance process. It is crucial for the union to have this authorization, especially in formal procedures.
  • Supporting Evidence Documentation: Any relevant documents that support the grievant's case should be compiled. This can include emails, memos, witness statements, or any other records pertinent to the grievance.
  • Witness Statements: If the grievance involves incidents witnessed by others, formal statements from those witnesses can be collected. These statements provide additional perspectives and strengthen the case.
  • Management's Response Document: After the grievance has been filed, management will usually provide a formal response. This document outlines their position, the facts they acknowledge, and any disputes regarding the grievance.
  • Settlement Agreement Template: If both parties reach an agreement to resolve the grievance, this template outlines the agreed-upon terms. It is essential for formalizing any resolution achieved during the grievance process.
  • Grievance Tracking Log: This internal document helps track the progress of grievances within the union or management. It includes dates, discussions, and actions taken, ensuring that all aspects of the grievance are monitored and recorded.
  • Arbitration Request Form: Should the grievance escalate to arbitration, this form initiates the process. It outlines the specific issues in dispute and requests a third-party arbitrator to resolve the conflict.

Understanding and utilizing these forms and documents correctly can be essential for navigating the USPS grievance process effectively. Make sure to gather all necessary documentation, as these pieces work together to clarify, support, and resolve workplace disputes.

Similar forms

  • USPS-NALC Joint Step B Grievance Form: This document is utilized when grievances progress further in the process beyond Step A. It requires similar information about the grievant, the issues involved, and any supporting evidence. Both forms help structure the grievance in an organized manner, ensuring vital details are captured for resolution.

  • MSPB Appeal Form: Employees may use this form to appeal a decision made by the U.S. Postal Service Board of Governors if they believe their rights have been violated. Like the USPS Grievance Process 8190, it includes spaces for personal and case-specific details, allowing the grievant to clearly articulate their concerns and seek redress.

  • EEO Complaint Form: This form is designed for individuals who want to file a complaint related to employment discrimination within the USPS. Both this and the USPS Grievance Process 8190 serve to document grievances formally and require detailed descriptions of the alleged incidents, ensuring both parties can address the issues appropriately.

  • Grievance Record Keeping Forms: These forms are used internally within the USPS to track grievance resolutions and related communications. They share a similar purpose with the USPS Grievance Process 8190 in maintaining a formal record of disputes, resolutions, and follow-up actions. Both types of documents help ensure transparency and accountability in handling grievances.

Dos and Don'ts

When filling out the USPS Grievance Process 8190 form, there are important dos and don'ts to consider. Following these can help ensure your grievance is resolved more effectively.

  • Do provide accurate information. Every detail from the grievant’s name to the incident date needs to be correct.
  • Do keep a record of all discussions. Document conversations with supervisors and include them in your submission.
  • Do frame your issue clearly. State the issue as a question and include specific details and contractual provisions.
  • Do attach relevant documents. Include all supporting documents that help explain the grievance.
  • Don't skip required fields. Ensure every necessary section is filled out completely.
  • Don't be vague. Avoid unclear statements; be as specific as possible about the events and issues.
  • Don't delay in submitting. Submit the form within the specified time frame after discussions with the supervisor.
  • Don't forget to check for errors. Review the form for any mistakes before submitting it.

Taking these steps seriously can make a difference in the processing of your grievance. Stay calm and respectful throughout the process for the best outcomes.

Misconceptions

Misconceptions about the USPS Grievance Process can hinder potential resolutions. Here are four common misconceptions and clarifications on each.

  • Misconception 1: The grievance process is automatic and will always lead to a resolution.
  • The grievance process is not guaranteed to resolve every issue. While it provides a structured way to address disputes, outcomes depend on the specifics of each case and the willingness of both parties to negotiate. If disagreements persist, the grievance may remain unresolved.

  • Misconception 2: Filing a grievance is a sign of a person's weakness or inability to handle conflict.
  • Filing a grievance is a legitimate step in addressing workplace issues. It is a formal way for employees to assert their rights and seek clarity on their situations. Exercising this option demonstrates awareness of one's rights and a commitment to open communication.

  • Misconception 3: Only the union can file a grievance on behalf of an employee.
  • While union representatives often handle grievances, employees can also initiate the grievance process independently. It is important for employees to understand their rights and the procedures in place so that they feel empowered to take action if necessary.

  • Misconception 4: The grievance process is quick and does not require much documentation.
  • The grievance process can be time-consuming and typically requires thorough documentation. Employees must gather facts, provide necessary evidence, and articulate their issues clearly. This diligence is crucial for building a strong case and achieving a favorable outcome.

Key takeaways

  • Filling out the USPS Grievance Process 8190 form requires attention to detail; every input is crucial. Ensure all requested information about the grievant is accurately entered, including names, contact numbers, and employee identification details.

  • The Informal Step A section must be completed by the NALC shop steward before proceeding. If the grievance isn’t resolved at this stage, it’s essential to get the supervisor’s initials on the form.

  • Time is of the essence: The form must be forwarded along with all relevant documents within 7 days of the initial discussion with the supervisor. This ensures that no critical timeline is missed.

  • Document all relevant facts: Step A requires a clear presentation of undisputed facts as well as the union’s and management’s statements regarding the grievance. Attach all supporting papers to bolster the case.

  • Construct a precise issue statement. Frame it as a question to clarify the problem at hand. For example, questioning the justification behind disciplinary actions can make a significant difference.

  • If the grievance is resolved at Formal Step A, there’s no need to fill out Items 16-22. Directly note the resolution in Item 20 and document the agreement principles.

  • Filing for grievances related to multiple issues simultaneously may complicate the process. It’s often more effective to address grievances one at a time to avoid confusion.

  • Lastly, remember that all parties involved should accurately fill in their contact details, sign the form, and record the date. This finalizes the procedure and keeps a proper chronological record.