After numerous conversations with various UTU International officers and BNSF Labor Relations and Operating officers while in Fort Worth last week, the following facts are now very clear:
It is clear that BNSF views the so-called "test period" as including all RCO training and operations pending final resolution of this issue at the national level. There is no actual "testing" protocol, and the Carrier declined to establish any criteria for testing as opposed to actual production operations. I was advised that the involved operating officers will work closely with the affected Local and General Committees to address any concerns raised during the test period. We stressed the importance of insuring that the user of the RCO equipment was not simultaneously involved in other communications or in any physical activities that would distract from full attention to the RCO equipment. There was also some discussion of establishing restricted "RCO Zones" to further protect these employees and others working in the area. My request to have an engineer ride the locomotive during initial RCO training was denied.
As to compensation, I was advised that all ground service employees using this equipment during the test period would be paid at the yard foreman rate of pay. Then, when a permanent agreement is reached, pay for the test period will be adjusted so that the involved employees receive no less than they would have been paid had that permanent agreement been in effect during the test period.
I was advised that existing assignments will be replaced by RCO assignments as soon as it is feasible to do so, and that employees who are thereby displaced and unable to hold any assignment will be added to the Yardmen's extra board. The normal exercise of seniority will determine who will occupy these RCO jobs, and the necessary training will be made available to any employee who becomes assigned. The Carrier has already determined the duration and content of RCO training, and was unwilling to discuss it further at this time.
The Carrier was unable to answer many of our questions, including those concerning FRA certification (or decertification) as it relates to RCO, but indicated that information would be furnished.
It remains my hope that we will be able to negotiate definite guidelines for these RCO pilot projects at some point. Until that time, or until our national negotiating team reaches a permanent agreement governing these assignments, any employee who is adversely affected by the implementation of RCO should document the facts and submit the appropriate claims. We will post additional information as it becomes available.