We recently distributed copies of the February 20, 2002 Safety Participation/Alternative Handling Agreement to all GO-001 Local Chairmen. That Agreement is the result of joint negotiations by both UTU and BLE General Chairmen on BNSF, and it is intended to serve as a basis for a cooperative approach to identifying and reducing both environmental and behavioral risk in the workplace. It is a recognition that the old "search and destroy" method of punitive discipline simply will not work to create a safer workplace, and that real change will only occur when management, union leaders and workers become equal partners in the critical task of insuring safety on the job.

The process of change does not stop with this Agreement. As a direct result of these negotiating sessions, the parties have realized that attendance and manpower utilization and fatigue and quality of life are all inextricably linked to safety. As a result, the parties have agreed to continue this negotiating forum to look for more positive ways to deal with those important issues. One immediate result is that the Carrier has agreed to discontinue the "rolling" 3-month measurement period for attendance, and instead measure attendance on a flat quarterly basis. Subcommittees have been formed consisting of representatives from UTU, BLE and BNSF to seek alternatives to the attendance guidelines that will address all of these factors. Additional negotiating sessions have been scheduled, and we will keep you informed of any further developments.