Heidelberg Teamsters Strike Over Unfair Labor Practices in Pittsburgh

Concrete Drivers Strike Amid Stalled Negotiations

Press Contact: Maura Drumm Phone: (215) 510-3734 Email: mdrumm@teamster.org

In Pittsburgh, Teamsters Local 249's concrete ready-mix drivers have initiated an unfair labor practice strike against Heidelberg Materials due to the company's unwillingness to engage in constructive contract talks.

Having advocated for workers' rights at Heidelberg Materials for over 30 years, Local 249 faces challenges as the company fails to propose a satisfactory contract addressing key issues like initial-year wages, healthcare, and pensions. The 11 drivers have encountered reprisals for rejecting unfavorable corporate proposals.

"These drivers are responsible for all of Heidelberg’s ready-mix operations in Allegheny County, yet the company has shown them nothing but disrespect during negotiations," stated Kevin Schmitt, President of Local 249. "Heidelberg Teamsters will not rest until the company returns with a contract that reflects the value our members bring to work every single day."

The drivers express concerns over Heidelberg Materials' push to replace union work rules with corporate policies in the proposed agreement. The contentious contract includes diminished seniority terms, reduced worker safeguards against disciplinary measures, and limited union influence over driver-facing cameras.

Slava Barvik, a veteran driver of 19 years with Heidelberg Materials and member of Local 249, commented, "Rather than bargain with us fairly, Heidelberg Materials is forcing us to strike to protect our livelihoods as Teamsters. We will not throw away work rules our union has negotiated over three decades just because the company wants us to. Heidelberg needs to stop with the games and come back to the table to bargain with us seriously."

The striking drivers intend to maintain their picket line until Heidelberg Materials ceases its unfair labor practices and returns to the negotiation table in good faith.

Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents over 1.3 million hardworking individuals across the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. More details can be found at Teamster.org. Follow updates on X at @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters.

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