The Postal Service notified the APWU on Dec. 23, 2010 [PDF], of plans to remove bullet-resistant glazing from some retail lobbies “in order to improve the customer experience” when a risk analysis supports removal.

The APWU opposes these plans, as we outlined in correspondence with the Postal Service dated Jan. 7, 2011 [PDF], and Jan. 26, 2011 [PDF].

Bullet-resistant glazing at counters in retail facilities is typically addressed at the local level.  However, because we received notice at the national level, the APWU believes the Postal Service may intend to remove bullet-resistant glazing on a wide scale.

First and foremost, we believe that security and safety of employees should come first and should be the primary purpose of any risk assessment.  Moreover, if the Postal Service is serious about improving the customer experience, they should start with restoring sufficient staffing at the counter to eliminate long lines and waiting time.

We are currently seeking information related to the USPS’s plans, including identification of any impacted facility and a copy of risk assessments for retail facilities where bullet-resistant glazing at counter lines has been removed or may be considered for removal. In addition, we requested that in the event a decision is made to remove bullet-resistant glazing from retail facilities, the topic be placed on the agenda of National Joint Labor-Management Safety Committee prior to implementation to ensure full discussion.

We will keep you posted as more information becomes available.  An article about this issue appears in the January-March edition of the The American Postal Worker.