UPS Drivers Protest for Air Conditioning in Texas

Teamsters Local 767, representing UPS drivers in North Texas, organized a protest following a recent incident where a driver lost control of their vehicle due to a heat-related illness. Union president Dave Reeves emphasized the lack of air conditioning in the over 2,000 vehicles operated within their jurisdiction, raising concerns about the working conditions for drivers. "In the back of those trucks, I swear you can make brownies," remarked UPS driver Jeff Bowers, underscoring the extreme heat drivers endure. In response to the protest, UPS spokesperson Jim Mayer stated that the company had previously agreed to measures aimed at improving safety for employees working in high temperatures. Mayer highlighted that UPS is on track with contractual agreements made last year, which include equipping vehicles with heat shields and enhancing air intakes to improve ventilation in cargo areas. Despite these measures, Bowers reiterated the absence of air conditioning in the trucks, prompting further scrutiny of UPS's commitment to driver safety. Mayer reassured that the health and safety of employees is a priority, noting the company's annual investment of over $409 million in safety training and equipment enhancements. The union claims that none of the 2,000-plus UPS trucks in their area are equipped with air conditioning, although they assert that a recent contract stipulates all new trucks purchased this year will have A/C. UPS has acknowledged this agreement and is committed to fulfilling it.