Painters Union fights for safety at Sure Built manufacturing

Al Barraza, Director of Organizing for the International Union of Painters and Allied Trades District Council 14, joined America's Work Force Union Podcast to discuss a campaign for worker safety at Sure Built Concrete Forms and Accessories.

Sure Built's manufacturing plant in Melrose Park, Ill., has been plagued by serious safety issues. Workers have reported multiple fires without alarms sounding, severed fingers and numerous workplace accidents. Many employees, particularly immigrants, have worked for years as "permatemps" -- employees without full-time status or benefits, despite long tenures with the company. Barraza explained this precarious employment status leaves workers vulnerable to exploitation and reluctant to report safety concerns.

DC 14, in partnership with Arise Chicago, launched a campaign to address these issues and organize the workforce. They created a website, surebuiltworkers.org, to raise awareness and gather support through a petition drive. He said the campaign aims to pressure Sure Built to improve safety measures, provide proper training and recognize the workers' right to unionize. Barraza emphasized the importance of solidarity in bringing attention to these workplace hazards and empowering workers to advocate for themselves.

Recent OSHA inspections have led to some improvements, including the implementation of an evacuation plan and activation of alarm sensors. However, Barraza stressed that ongoing vigilance and organizing efforts are crucial to ensure lasting change. He said DC 14's campaign serves as a microcosm of broader issues facing vulnerable workers across the country, which highlights the need for strong labor protections and union representation.

To learn more about IUPAT DC 14's fight for worker safety at Sure Built, listen to the full episode.