Matt Gunup, President of SEIU Local 580, discussed the alarming working conditions at the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Family Services building. Gunup highlighted the long-standing health issues, the state's plan to renew the lease and the upcoming public hearing to address these concerns.
The building, a former jewelry factory retrofitted for office use, has a history of health hazards dating back to the 1990s, Gunup said. Workers have reported respiratory complaints, allergic reactions, rodent infestations and the smell of mold, he added. Despite these issues, the state is considering a 10-year lease renewal at a cost of over $25 million. Gunup emphasized that many workers have experienced health problems directly linked to the building, with some seeing improvements after moving to different offices.
SEIU Local 580 is pushing back against management's dismissal of worker concerns as “anecdotal” and “subjective.” The union has requested information on air testing and documentation about the building's condition but has received no response since July. Gunup expressed frustration at the lack of evidence that the state has explored alternative locations for the workforce, despite the union's requests to do so.
A public hearing scheduled for Oct. 23 will allow workers and community members to voice their concerns. This opportunity for public comment came after pressure from the Attorney General's office, which criticized the lack of engagement with workers and insufficient information provided by the Department of Children, Youth and Family Services, Gunup said. This provides a crucial chance to counter management's narrative and present the reality of the building's conditions, he said.
Listen to the full episode for more details on SEIU Local 580's fight for safe working conditions.
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