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What is the duration of the Collective Bargaining Agreement?
What is the duration of the Collective Bargaining Agreement?
October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2024
The County recognizes the Union as the exclusive bargaining representative for all employees of the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Department.
The County recognizes the Union as the exclusive bargaining representative for all employees of the Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Department.
True
Which of the following positions are covered by this Agreement? (Select all that apply)
Which of the following positions are covered by this Agreement? (Select all that apply)
Employees can authorize the County to deduct Union dues through payroll.
Employees can authorize the County to deduct Union dues through payroll.
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The Union Time Pool may be used for Union business upon approval by the _____
The Union Time Pool may be used for Union business upon approval by the _____
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Who are permitted to participate in labor contract negotiation sessions while on duty with no loss of pay?
Who are permitted to participate in labor contract negotiation sessions while on duty with no loss of pay?
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Notices placed on the bulletin board can contain untrue statements about the County or its Officers.
Notices placed on the bulletin board can contain untrue statements about the County or its Officers.
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How many grievance representatives are allowed to utilize time pool to attend grievance meetings?
How many grievance representatives are allowed to utilize time pool to attend grievance meetings?
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Match the following articles with their content:
Match the following articles with their content:
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What is the first step of the grievance procedure?
What is the first step of the grievance procedure?
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A written grievance must be filed within seven (7) calendar days if resolved in Step 1.
A written grievance must be filed within seven (7) calendar days if resolved in Step 1.
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Who meets with the aggrieved employee in Step 2?
Who meets with the aggrieved employee in Step 2?
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What must be filed if the grievance remains unresolved after Step 2?
What must be filed if the grievance remains unresolved after Step 2?
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The arbitrator's opinion must be rendered within ______ days after receipt of briefs.
The arbitrator's opinion must be rendered within ______ days after receipt of briefs.
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What must be included in a grievance to be eligible for processing?
What must be included in a grievance to be eligible for processing?
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In what situation does an employee have grounds to file a grievance over a performance rating?
In what situation does an employee have grounds to file a grievance over a performance rating?
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Employees must work at least six (6) months to have their performance rated.
Employees must work at least six (6) months to have their performance rated.
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How many calendar days must the Fire Rescue Administrator respond in writing after receiving an appeal?
How many calendar days must the Fire Rescue Administrator respond in writing after receiving an appeal?
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What is a prerequisite for an employee to apply for a promotional examination?
What is a prerequisite for an employee to apply for a promotional examination?
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Which function is NOT exclusive to management in the Fire Rescue Department?
Which function is NOT exclusive to management in the Fire Rescue Department?
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The Safety Committee meets bi-monthly or as mutually agreed upon.
The Safety Committee meets bi-monthly or as mutually agreed upon.
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What is the main purpose of the Safety Committee meetings?
What is the main purpose of the Safety Committee meetings?
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In the event of a personnel reduction, ________ employees in the classification to be reduced shall be laid off first.
In the event of a personnel reduction, ________ employees in the classification to be reduced shall be laid off first.
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Match the following articles with their topics:
Match the following articles with their topics:
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What may happen if an employee participates in a strike against the County?
What may happen if an employee participates in a strike against the County?
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What determines seniority for employees hired after June 1, 1991?
What determines seniority for employees hired after June 1, 1991?
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Employees on probation can use vacation time during the first three months of employment.
Employees on probation can use vacation time during the first three months of employment.
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What happens to a discharge considered during disciplinary action?
What happens to a discharge considered during disciplinary action?
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What is required for employees who are not Department Protocoled Paramedics at the time of promotion?
What is required for employees who are not Department Protocoled Paramedics at the time of promotion?
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Successful completion of Strategy and Tactics and Company Officer Leadership is required for promotion.
Successful completion of Strategy and Tactics and Company Officer Leadership is required for promotion.
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What is the minimum continuous service requirement as a Specialty Captain for the ARFF Captain position?
What is the minimum continuous service requirement as a Specialty Captain for the ARFF Captain position?
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Which certification is required for EMS Captain?
Which certification is required for EMS Captain?
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What certification must be completed within one year of promotion to ARFF Captain?
What certification must be completed within one year of promotion to ARFF Captain?
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The passing grade for written examinations shall be _____ percent.
The passing grade for written examinations shall be _____ percent.
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Match the following positions with their service requirements:
Match the following positions with their service requirements:
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Candidates can appeal their individual scores on the performance-based component of the promotional process.
Candidates can appeal their individual scores on the performance-based component of the promotional process.
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What is a requirement for the Communications Supervisor position?
What is a requirement for the Communications Supervisor position?
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What is the minimum qualifying education for Battalion Chiefs?
What is the minimum qualifying education for Battalion Chiefs?
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What is the minimum rank for raters in the evaluation process?
What is the minimum rank for raters in the evaluation process?
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Raters employed by Palm Beach County can participate in the evaluation process.
Raters employed by Palm Beach County can participate in the evaluation process.
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What must applicants achieve on the written exam to apply for the oral interview processes?
What must applicants achieve on the written exam to apply for the oral interview processes?
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What is the minimum passing score for the practical examination?
What is the minimum passing score for the practical examination?
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The oral interview scenarios for all positions will be administered using different scenarios for each candidate.
The oral interview scenarios for all positions will be administered using different scenarios for each candidate.
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For which positions must a candidate achieve and maintain Department Protocoled Paramedic status within two years of promotion?
For which positions must a candidate achieve and maintain Department Protocoled Paramedic status within two years of promotion?
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What is the duration of a Promotional Register?
What is the duration of a Promotional Register?
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The passing grade for oral interviews scenarios shall be __ percent.
The passing grade for oral interviews scenarios shall be __ percent.
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How often can an employee refuse a promotion without jeopardizing their standing on the Promotional Register?
How often can an employee refuse a promotion without jeopardizing their standing on the Promotional Register?
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What is the maximum amount of assignment pay based on an employee's base rate of pay?
What is the maximum amount of assignment pay based on an employee's base rate of pay?
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What percentage of assignment pay do Paramedic Firefighters receive?
What percentage of assignment pay do Paramedic Firefighters receive?
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Which assignment receives 10% pay?
Which assignment receives 10% pay?
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All employees permanently assigned to Special Operations must have a valid FLUSAR Rescue Specialist Certification.
All employees permanently assigned to Special Operations must have a valid FLUSAR Rescue Specialist Certification.
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What assignment pay do ARFF Vehicle Drivers receive?
What assignment pay do ARFF Vehicle Drivers receive?
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Fire Inspectors assigned to Investigations receive ____ percent assignment pay.
Fire Inspectors assigned to Investigations receive ____ percent assignment pay.
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Which of the following positions receive 5% assignment pay?
Which of the following positions receive 5% assignment pay?
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What is the assignment pay for employees assigned to the Floating Squad?
What is the assignment pay for employees assigned to the Floating Squad?
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Employees assigned to Special Operations can hold multiple assignments simultaneously.
Employees assigned to Special Operations can hold multiple assignments simultaneously.
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All employees not assigned to Special Operations will receive ____ percent assignment pay for Dive Units.
All employees not assigned to Special Operations will receive ____ percent assignment pay for Dive Units.
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Study Notes
Collective Bargaining Agreement Overview
- Agreement establishes terms between Palm Beach County and the Professional Firefighters/Paramedics of Palm Beach County, Local 2928.
- Effective from October 1, 2021, to September 30, 2024.
Article Summaries
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Preamble: Affirms the professionalism and moral standards expected from employees; aims to ensure harmony, effective communication, and fair wages and working conditions.
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Recognition: Union recognized as the exclusive bargaining representative for Palm Beach County Fire Rescue Department employees; includes various ranks like Firefighters, Lieutenants, Captains, and others. Excludes high-ranking positions such as Fire Rescue Administrators.
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Dues Checkoff: Employees can authorize payroll deductions for union dues; such authorization remains until revoked. The Union must indemnify the County against claims related to dues.
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Union Business: Employees can contribute leave to a Union Time Pool for union activities, subject to supervisory approval. Specific protocols exist for time approval and usage, particularly for requests exceeding twelve hours.
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Bulletin Boards: The County provides bulletin boards at fire stations for Union notices, which must be approved by the Fire Rescue Administrator before posting.
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Meeting Rooms: Union is permitted to use County meeting rooms as available, provided advance notice is given.
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Management Rights: The County retains unenumerated rights, which include hiring, scheduling, discipline, and enforcement of rules. Management maintains operational control consistent with the Agreement.
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Meetings with Management: Union and management representatives can meet to discuss mutually relevant issues at agreed times.
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Safety Committee: Established within the Fire Rescue Department, created with equal representation (three members from the Union and three from management) to ensure workplace safety.
Key Entities and Concepts
- Parties Involved: Palm Beach County (County) and Professional Firefighters/Paramedics of Palm Beach County (Union).
- Timeframe of Agreement: Three-year duration with specified start and end dates.
- Union Structure: Recognizes varied ranks within the Fire Rescue Department and specifies exclusion of certain administrative roles.
Important Provisions
- Indemnification Clause: Ensures the County is protected from legal issues stemming from union dues deduction.
- Grievance Procedures: Allow for orderly processing of employee grievances through established methods.
- Employee Rights: Clear protocols regarding time off for union activities while maintaining service needs.
Miscellaneous
- Document Control: All documents and materials related to the Agreement must follow outlined approval and posting standards.
- Union Officer Responsibilities: Designated Union officers may conduct union business during working hours without loss of pay.
This structured overview captures significant aspects of the Collective Bargaining Agreement, emphasizing key points for effective study and retention.### Safety Committee
- Meetings occur bi-monthly or as agreed upon, scheduled by the Fire Rescue Administrator.
- Purpose: Discuss safety and health concerns of the Fire Rescue Department.
- Conducted semi-formally with an agenda submitted by Committee members five days prior.
- Minutes are taken and distributed before the next meeting.
- Recommendations sent to the Fire Rescue Administrator, who responds in writing within thirty days.
Non-Discrimination
- Prohibits discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, age, disability, national origin, marital status, sexual orientation, and genetic information.
- Supports the County's Affirmative Action Program if it aligns with the Collective Bargaining Agreement.
- Discrimination complaints must be filed with the appropriate agency, not through the grievance procedure.
Prohibition of Strikes
- Employees are prohibited from instigating or supporting strikes against the County.
- Violations can lead to disciplinary actions, including discharge.
Personnel Reduction
- Layoffs begin with probationary employees, followed by those with the least seniority.
- Seniority affects the order of layoffs and recall.
- Employees can bump into lower classifications based on seniority.
- Laid-off employees receive full payment for accrued vacation leave.
Seniority
- Determined by the date of hire with the County Fire Rescue Department or predecessor agencies.
- Seniority lists are posted, with exceptions reported for disputes.
- Battalion Chiefs and EMS Captains' seniority is based on their last appointment date.
Probationary Employees
- New employees serve a probationary period of one year.
- Probation may be extended in cases of extended absences or unsatisfactory performance.
- Termination during probation does not entail payout of accrued leave.
- Promotion probation lasts four months, with a potential two-month extension.
Disciplinary Action and Discharge
- Disciplinary actions require just cause and must be communicated within ten business days.
- Employees can grieve disciplinary actions, which do not enter personnel files until the grievance process is complete.
- Discharges are treated as suspensions without pay during grievance processing.
Grievance and Arbitration Procedure
- Grievances should be discussed within ten days and escalate through four steps if unresolved.
- Step 1: Discuss with the District Chief or supervisor with a Union representative.
- Step 2: Written grievance to the Deputy Chief if unresolved.
- Step 3: Written appeal to the Fire Rescue Administrator if still unresolved.
- Step 4: Filing for arbitration within sixty days of Step 3 completion.
- Arbitration costs are shared, and the process aims for expedited resolution.### Dispute and Grievance Process
- Arbitrator decides on the arbitrability of disputes and hears grievances if deemed arbitrable.
- Time limits for grievance processing are strict and can only be extended through mutual written agreement.
- Grievances filed late are considered withdrawn unless an agreement is made in writing.
- A grievance must include the grievant's name, event details, contract violation specifics, and relief sought.
Performance Reviews
- Employees undergo annual evaluations by supervisors, with higher-level reviews in special circumstances.
- Grievances over performance ratings can be filed but cannot go to arbitration unless the rating is "unacceptable" or "needs improvement" for permanent employees.
- Step increases for employees are issued on their anniversary date unless the performance rating necessitates rescission.
- Employees must work at least six months in a year to be eligible for performance ratings and annual step raises.
Promotions
Position Filling
- Promotions for specific roles must occur within two pay periods unless otherwise directed by the Fire Rescue Administrator.
- Written notice is required to inform about the freezing or elimination of positions, with exceptions for unanticipated vacancies.
- New promotions for roles with no active registers must occur within 120 days of the vacancy.
Examination and Application
- Written notice of examination dates must be posted 90 days in advance, with examinations taking place 90 to 120 days after notification.
- Applications for promotional examinations are only accepted if submitted before the announced closing date.
Eligibility for Promotional Examinations
- Candidates must not have received suspensions exceeding 24 hours in the prior 12 months.
- Specific educational qualifications, including degrees approved by the State of Florida for Educational Incentive, are required for certain promotions.
- Continuous service requirements may be reduced by 12 months with an approved degree.
Role-Specific Qualifications
- Driver Operator: Requires 48 months of continuous service as a Firefighter, along with additional certifications and no recent driving violations.
- Lieutenant: Requires 60 months of service as a Firefighter/Driver Operator, training certifications, and leadership qualifications.
- Captain: Requires 108 months of service in various firefighting roles and specific training completed, such as strategy and tactics courses.
- ARFF Captain, Special Operations Captain, EMS Captain: Require continuous service in specialty roles, relevant certifications, and leadership training.
- Battalion Chief: Must have 36 months of service in higher roles, paramedic certification, and advanced educational qualifications.
- Communications Center Positions: Require specific roles with continuous service and certification in emergency medical dispatching (EMD).
General Promotion Guidelines
- All promotions and examinations must adhere to legal and non-discriminatory standards.
- Continuous service and academic qualifications are crucial for eligibility in promotional processes.
- Certain conditions, such as maintaining required certifications, must be fulfilled ongoing for specific roles.
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Description
This quiz provides an overview of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between Palm Beach County and the Professional Firefighters/Paramedics of Palm Beach County, Local 2928, IAFF, INC., effective from October 1, 2021, to September 30, 2024. Test your knowledge on key components and implications of this agreement.
