Brothers and Sisters,

Thank you for your continued commitment to health and safety throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. Local 4 members have truly led by example during these uncertain and difficult times. As the CDC has established new guidelines, we are adjusting our efforts to ensure the health and safety of all members, employees, and their families.

As community transmission rates have declined, Local 4 will no longer be mandating mask usage for visitors and employees. This policy applies to the Union Hall, Funds Office, and Training Center and includes staff meetings, training classes, Executive Board meetings, and Union meetings.

Though the mandate is ending, the Massachusetts Department of Public Health encourages those who are immunocompromised or who have underlying conditions to continue mask usage, even if fully vaccinated. Wearing masks prevents transmission, which is also advisable if a member of your household is unvaccinated or is at increased risk for the virus. Those who have not received their vaccines should continue to wear masks as well. For further information about current guidance, please visit the CDC website.

For the safety of our members and their families, all employees of the Union Hall, Funds Office, and Training Center will be required to show proof of COVID-19 vaccination and booster shot when they are eligible in accordance with CDC recommendations.

The recent waves of COVID-19 variants further emphasize the importance of vaccination, boosters, and prevention efforts to protect against COVID-19.

For 125 years, we’ve faced our share of challenges, and we’ve overcome them time and again. I will continue this trend, especially when it comes to the health and safety of our Brothers and Sisters. Thank you for your cooperation as we strive to actively make decisions for the recovery and safety of our communities.

 
In solidarity,
 
William D. McLaughlin
Business Manager
International Trustee

Contacting Local 4

As of June 1, 2021, the Union Hall, Funds Office, and Training Center have resumed all normal operations in adherence to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ COVID-19 guidelines. We are ready to assist you in person or virtually. Our phone lines and emails are open for any questions or concerns you may have during normal business hours of 8 AM to 4 PM, Monday through Friday. Please feel free to call ahead for appointments at any of our offices if you prefer. Visitors to the Funds Office should call ahead for appointments.

COVID-19 Vaccines

All residents over the age of 5 are now eligible to receive a free COVID-19 vaccination from Pfizer and people age 18 or older can get any vaccine in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine. The CDC recommends that everyone 5 years and older protect themselves from COVID-19 by getting fully vaccinated. We strongly encourage all members to sign up for a vaccine appointment as soon as they are able.

Due to the Delta and Omicron variants, CDC encourages a COVID-19 vaccine booster dose for those who are eligible. Everyone age 18 or older who received Pfizer or Moderna at least 6 months ago or Johnson & Johnson at least 2 months ago can get any booster.

By getting your vaccine now, you’ll help protect our communities from this deadly disease. Thank you for doing your part.

Return to Work Safety Guidelines

Please review the following resources for more information about taking COVID-19 precautions on the job site:

Online Dues Payment

We encourage you to pay your dues online. To pay dues online by credit or debit card, please visit: pay.xpress-pay.com/org/E23DD52730A6440

  • Enter your name, registration number, credit card number, and the desired payment amount.
  • Please note that asterisked* fields are required.
  • Your dues will be credited the next business day and your receipt will be sent in accordance with your payment.

Health & Welfare Coverage

While we have returned to full operations as of June 1, 2021, your family will continue to have access to COVID-19 care:
  • Medically necessary COVID testing will continue to have no out-of-pocket cost. For members and their dependents covered by Blue Cross Blue Shield, we’ve removed copayments, co-insurance, and/or deductibles for all medically necessary coronavirus testing, counseling, and supportive care. As of January 1, 2022, any inpatient or outpatient treatment for a diagnosis of COVID-19 will be subject to the Plan deductible, coinsurance, and copays. If you think you need COVID testing or care, call your doctor or other healthcare provider. Note: You will still be responsible for your usual out-of-pocket costs for in-person care that is not for coronavirus.
  • Telehealth options. Blue Cross Blue Shield’s WellConnection offers urgent telehealth services for non-emergency medical care, including any coronavirus symptoms you may be experiencing, as well as for behavioral health concerns. Please note that effective July 1, 2021, Blue Cross Blue Shield is ending the waiver of the $15 copay for non-COVID telehealth services. Visit Access WellConnection.
  • Our Modern Assistance Program is here to help you handle the uncertainty and impacts of this outbreak. The impacts of the pandemic have been felt in areas surrounding every aspect of everyday life, whether it be financial, childcare needs, or health concerns.
  • For more information, please visit the Local 4 Funds website.

COVID-19 Testing

COVID-19 testing is an important way to protect your family, friends, and community. Testing for COVID-19 is widely available.

You should be tested if you develop any symptoms of COVID-19, even if they are mild, or you are a close contact of someone who has tested positive for COVID-19.

Additional Resources for Union Members

Workers who have lost hours or their job due to COVID-19 may be eligible for SNAP Food Assistance. Find out more information.

Visit the Mass Building Trades Council’s Best Practices page for information on the following:

  • Vaccine distribution, eligibility, and the registration process
  • Special resources for veterans
  • Current COVID-19 restrictions in Massachusetts
  • Free COVID-19 testing

General President Callahan has issued a message to IUOE Members: The health and safety of IUOE members is always our top priority, but it is more important than ever that we provide you with the most current information and resources available. We have pulled together some helpful tools and guidance for IUOE Members that puts the latest health and safety measures front and center.

Additional COVID-19 guidance for union members and families:

For guidance and support in American Sign Language, watch the CDC’s ASL video series on COVID-19. Subjects include:

  • COVID-19 Prevention Tips
  • Symptoms of COVID-19
  • What Older Adults Need to Know about COVID-19
  • What Is My Risk for COVID-19?
  • 10 Things You Can do to Manage COVID-19 at Home