BELTON, Texas — UPS workers across Texas are demanding better working conditions, several gathered in Belton outside the facility to let their voices be heard.
Belton employees say there have been several workers hospitalized because of heat-related illness. The workers are asking for the company to comply with a collective bargaining agreement signed last year. Part of the deal requires all new vehicles to have air conditioning, but current vehicles lack air conditioning.
The protests come after 37-year-old driver Luis Grimaldo of Killeen died on the job here in Central Texas. Co-workers allege the death was heat-related, but UPS says there is no indication of heat stress. Right now an autopsy is pending.
UPS released a statement addressing Grimaldo's death.
“We are saddened by the loss of our delivery driver Luis Grimaldo and extend our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends. We are working with authorities as they conduct their investigation. At this time, there has been no indication of heat stress. Our people are our top priority. We have industry-leading training and protocols in place to help ensure all employees are safe while on the job and we respond swiftly when concerns come to our attention.”
The employee movement has been all over Texas, last week UPS workers protested at the North Texas facility for the same reasons.
UPS continues to urge the public and its employees that the health and safety of their team members is important to them and they are committed to providing a safe work environment for their employees. More information can be found here.
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