Article 7: Probationary Employees

Section 7.1: Time Limit

The probationary period for new employees hired on or after February 1, 1994, is six hundred eighty (680) hours of accumulated actual work within twelve (12) months. Probationary employees are not eligible for any employee benefits during their probationary period other than health and welfare in accordance with the provisions of Article 17 of this Agreement and pension payments which shall be made on account of hours worked by probationary employees from the first hour worked. In addition, a probationary employee who successfully completes the probationary period will be paid holiday pay for any holidays that fell within that period. Probationary employees may be laid off, disciplined, or terminated at the Company's sole discretion and such action shall not be subject to the grievance and arbitration procedure. Wage rates for probationary employees hired after ratification are referenced in Appendix A, entitled "Hourly Wage Rates." The probationary wage rate will not be adjusted for any step-up purpose until completion of the probationary period. Cost of living adjustments are not applicable to probationary employees (see attached Appendix A - "Hourly Wage Rates"). Probationary employees shall work at the probationary-trainee rate of pay until the first day of the pay period following the completion of six-hundred-eighty (680) hours of actual work.

Section 7.2: New Employee Orientation

The Union Grievance Committee Chairman, or his designee, will be invited to help orientate new employees (within 30 days of their hire date), provided this time does not interfere with the conduct of the Company's business. Such time off work during normal working hours shall be with pay. Such pay shall not exceed eight (8) hours per month.