SMART, the International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail, and Transportation Workers, stands as a dynamic and multifaceted labor union within North America, boasting a robust membership of 203,000 dedicated individuals. These members play a crucial role in safeguarding the quality of the air we breathe, advancing energy efficiency, and delivering the essential services that propel goods and passengers to their destinations. The union’s diverse composition spans an array of professions, encompassing sheet metal workers, service technicians, bus operators, railroad engineers, conductors, sign workers, welders, production employees, and more.
With a presence across numerous industries and occupations, SMART is a steadfast advocate for workplace equity, excellence in professional endeavors, and fostering opportunities for all working families. Evolving from the legacies of its predecessor unions, SMART’s historical journey has led to the representation of members in an expansive spectrum of industry sectors and roles. From rail conductors to HVAC technicians, bus operators, and sign installers adorning iconic urban landscapes, SMART’s influence is felt far and wide.
Present-day SMART members can be found contributing their skills across diverse landscapes, including construction, rail shops, shipyards, nuclear power plants, manufacturing facilities, and the extensive transportation network crisscrossing America. Whether it’s a skilled HVAC technician responding to air conditioning issues or a dedicated bus operator ensuring safe commutes for individuals and students alike, the influence of SMART’s membership is pervasive and essential to various facets of modern society.
An experienced attorney can be of great use to SMART members, particularly following a workplace injury, wrongful termination, civil rights violations, and other employment issues that may arise. At Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers, we have the skills and expertise to provide the best legal representation to members for all employment or union-related issue.
Types of Work Done By SMART Members
Chicago has some of the best transportation systems in the country. Between O’Hare International Airport, the ‘L’ trains, and Metra, Illinois citizens can get around easier than ever. These important systems are built and maintained by the hardworking members of SMART. The types of work done by SMART members include:
SMART members may encounter a variety of issues where legal assistance can play a crucial role in safeguarding their rights and interests. These issues often necessitate the expertise of an employment lawyer who specializes in labor and employment law. Some, but not all, of the ways our attorneys can assist SMART members include the following.
Workers Compensation
Workplace injuries can occur in nearly any profession. Injured union workers are likely eligible to file a claim to receive workers’ compensation benefits. However, this process can be strenuous for those recovering from an injury. A skilled workers’ compensation attorney from our firm can assist members with filing their claims, maximizing their compensation, and fighting any issues or disputes of an application.
Contract Negotiations and Enforcement
Labor lawyers can be instrumental in negotiating and drafting employment contracts, collective bargaining agreements, and other legal documents that outline workers’ rights, wages, benefits, and working conditions. They help ensure that contracts are fair, equitable, and compliant with relevant labor laws. In case of contract violations, lawyers can help members pursue legal remedies to enforce their contractual rights.
Wage and Overtime Disputes
Lawyers can assist SMART members facing wage and hour disputes, including issues related to unpaid wages, overtime pay, minimum wage violations, and misclassification as exempt employees. They can help workers recover unpaid wages and ensure that they receive fair compensation for their work.
Discrimination and Harassment Claims
When SMART members experience discrimination or harassment based on factors such as race, gender, age, or disability, lawyers can guide them through the process of filing complaints with appropriate agencies and pursuing legal action against employers who engage in such unlawful behavior.
Wrongful Termination, Retaliation, and Whistleblower Protections
If SMART members are wrongfully terminated without just cause or in violation of employment contracts, lawyers can help them explore legal avenues for seeking reinstatement, back pay, and other forms of compensation. If SMART members face adverse actions from employers in response to their union involvement or other protected activities, lawyers can help them file retaliation claims and seek damages.
Members who uncover instances of employer misconduct or illegal activities can rely on legal protection as whistleblowers. Lawyers can guide how to report such instances, maintain job security, and seek legal remedies if retaliation occurs.
Representing SMART Members in Illinois
TheSMART is a large organization that is divided into several local chapters across the country. SMART locals are split into sheet metal locals and transportation division locals. Illinois is serviced by the following local unions of SMART:
- Local 1 – Peoria, IL
- Local 73 – Chicago, IL
- Local 91 – Rock Island, IL
- Local 218 – Springfield, IL
- Local 219 – DuPage, IL
- Local 268 – Southern Illinois
- Local 450 – Kankakee, IL
At Disparti Law Group Accident & Injury Lawyers, we know how important it is for SMART union members to have legal support when issues arise at work such as accidents, injuries, and contract negotiations. Whatever the case, you should not have to go it alone. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for a FREE consultation to discuss your situation.