Chrysler was associated with a recent scandal by some workers from a plant. A local whistleblower report captured some plant workers involved in some questionable actions. Numerous Chrysler Motors plant staff were captured consuming and using illegal drugs during their lunch break close to the plant. The actions were revealed when a news station in Detroit was tipped off and investigated the activities in question. A scandal broke out as a result. Chrysler pledged to bring about a swift end. All parties involved were placed on suspension immediately. Days later, it is apparently resolved. Chrysler Motors dismissed 13, and 2 more remain on suspension.
Not quite OSHA accepted
An anonymous tip was given to WJBK Fox 2, a Fox affiliate in Detroit, as outlined by USA Today. It concerned staff from the Jefferson North Chrysler plant. The plant only handles one automobile. It is where the 2011 Jeep Grand Cherokees are assembled. Employees were seen going to a local recreation area to smoke what appeared to be marijuana and drink alcohol on their break. The news crew filmed them repeating the ritual for five consecutive days, until finally the anchor on location asked them as to what they were doing. The men were followed back to the plant by the investigative team. The sting comes at a pretty inconvenient time. President Obama recently concluded a visit to the very same plant.
The case results in canning of 13 individuals>
Chrysler initially placed 15 workers on suspension. The rules of the United Auto Workers require workers be suspended and investigated before they can be discharged. Of those 15, as outlined by Automotive News, 13 were dismissed and 2 are still on suspension. Chrysler also stated that quality control of builds is automated, and couldn’t be compromised. The UAW insists that those which were let go are not indicative in any way of the quality of the bulk of their members.
Do not drink and work
The era of the “three martini lunch” is over. Workplaces have to be safe. That is especially true of industrial websites. Drinking and taking other illegal intoxicants is certainly contrary to safe practices.
Articles cited
Auto News.com
autonews.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20100928/OEM/100929862/1252
USA Today
content.usatoday.com/communities/driveon/post/2010/09/detroit-tv-station-catches-chrysler-workers-drinking-drugging-during-lunch/1?csp=obinsite
