The Collective Agreement allows shift extensions to be worked in certain cases (set out below). Shift extensions of more than 1 hour up to a 4 hour maximum can only be worked when there are no suitable employees available through the despatch system to perform the work.
This means shift extensions over 1 hour must be approved by a BA in advance. No matter why an employer wants the shift extension (including weather delays, equipment breakdown, slow productivity, missed ordering time, or closed despatch hall) the gang must check that a BA has approved a shift extension over 1 hour before working it.
Shift extensions up to 1 hour do not need BA approval because they may be worked by a gang even if there are suitable employees available to do the work.
ALLOWED SHIFT EXTENSIONS UNDER ARTICLE 21.04
Deep Sea Gangs:
- 1 hour for the vessel to shift or sail
- Up to 4 hours for the vessel to shift or sail when no suitable employees are available
Dock Work General:
- 1 hour for any reason
- Up to 4 hours to complete a specific operation when no suitable employees are available
ILWU Local 500 Officers