As our industry continues to adapt to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, worksite protocols and procedures aimed at keeping the workplace safe from the virus continue to develop.

As of now, I have not heard of any owners or worksites that have not implemented some kind of COVID-19 rules, and most sites will NOT let unvaccinated workers – whether temporary or long-term – enter their sites.

That said, some have allowed PCR and rapid antigen testing every 72 hours to access their sites, in most cases, at the worker’s expense.

As the union, we have a direct bargaining relationship with the contractors, not the owners, so we are not able to challenge the owners’ COVID-19 protocols as they’re set by the owner as a condition of employment.

As a result, Local 222 members employed by the contactor are subject to the same scrutiny as the contractor. For members who choose not to be vaccinated for your own personal reasons, unfortunately, your work opportunities will likely be affected, at least for the course of the pandemic.

We appreciate your understanding.