On April 18, 2025, UPE met with the Merced County Library Department to discuss the Workplace Violence Prevention Program (WVPP), specifically Addendums A and B. Addendum A is intended to help ensure employee safety and outline procedures in the event of a workplace violence incident. Addendum B establishes formal checklists and inspection procedures related to workplace safety.
After reviewing the WVPP, UPE proposed multiple changes. UPE requested and it was accepted that areas of concern for arson, active shooter situations, and security camera procedures be added to addendum A. UPE also proposed, and it was agreed that information on Employee Assistance Program (EAP) services and Workers’ Compensation resources be included in WVPP training.
One major concern UPE raised was language in the area of concern, the “Grass Area Surrounding Building,” which required employees to walk the grounds of the library and the surroundings of the library buildings and remove debris or encampments. UPE strongly objected to this expectation. We do not believe it is our members' responsibility to expose themselves to potentially hazardous debris or attempt to remove homeless encampments in or around the library. UPE found this language unacceptable and had it removed. In addition, we issued a cease-and-desist notice to the department to immediately stop any such practices, should they be occurring. UPE will not tolerate our members being exposed to dangerous or unsanitary conditions outside of their job duties.
UPE also proposed, and it was agreed that evacuation map checks and security camera functionality inspections be added to Addendum B. The department agreed to these changes. UPE is committed to protecting its members' safety, dignity, and rights. We believe these updates are a step in the right direction to create a safer work environment for all library staff. If any member is directed to clean up debris around the library or remove homeless encampments, please contact UPE immediately.
UPE WOULD LIKE TO THANK UPE MERCED COUNTY UNIT 3 GOVERNING BOARD MEMBERS LISA SYKES AND CARMELITA RODRIGUEZ FOR THEIR ADVOCACY AND PARTICIPATION.
