V Team,
We continue to monitor the coronavirus (COVID-19) developments and address every matter that touches upon the well-being of our employees and customers, while delivering uninterrupted network services and connectivity to our customers. We’re constantly evaluating our policies to make sure they are responsive and sensitive to our employees’ needs.
Today, we reached an agreement with the East unions regarding temporary work-at-home arrangements in connection with the COVID-19 outbreak. Under the agreement, we will determine when it is practical to allow associates in a title and workgroup to work from home. When we conclude we can do so within a workgroup, we’ll make work-at-home available on a voluntary basis, potentially through the end of April.
We recognize that many of our jobs require our associates to be at our workplaces to serve our customers. For associates in those positions, work-at-home will not be an option. Our facilities remain open and for those who come to our workplaces, we will keep all spaces safe and clean. We’re adhering to protocols to clean and sanitize our offices, vehicles and equipment, as well as closely monitoring the situation in each community. As always, our customers and communities depend on our communications networks and services, and we’re committed to keeping them connected.
Here’s what you can expect next. Each organization will be conducting its own evaluation of which positions are appropriate for work at home. Your leader will let you know if your job permits this work-from-home option. Until you hear otherwise from your leader, continue to report for your normal work assignment. If you hear from your leader that your job is eligible, you will be able to volunteer. If there are more volunteers than we can accommodate, seniority will determine who can work from home. Your leader will work with you on the details and you’ll be expected and required to:
- Comply with all of Verizon’s rules and policies including the Code of Conduct.
- Safeguard all company property and information. Install and maintain all company property (e.g., laptops, power cords, monitors, etc.) provided to you to effectively work at home.
Our people are our greatest strength and your health and well-being is our top priority. We are grateful to the leadership of the CWA and the IBEW for supporting this initiative. We will continue to keep in close contact as we navigate the days ahead.
