At the USPS, it’s not uncommon for clerks, PSEs, or even custodians to be asked to take on tasks that fall outside their official duties—like delivering mail. While this may seem like a quick fix for short staffing, there are serious risks involved when employees are asked to step into roles they aren’t trained for, particularly when it comes to driving specialized vehicles or delivering mail.
Cross-Craft Work: When Is It Okay for Clerks to Deliver Mail?
In the USPS, every role comes with specific duties. Carriers deliver mail, while clerks process it. When a clerk is asked to deliver regular mail or parcels, they’re crossing into carrier territory, which can lead to complications.
Delivering mail is the responsibility of a trained carrier. Even though express mail can technically be delivered by anyone, asking clerks to deliver anything beyond that—especially when it’s outside their training—can create significant issues. It’s not just about workload; it’s about safety, efficiency, and following the correct procedures.
Vehicle Training: Why You Can’t Skip It
Driving a USPS vehicle without the proper training is a major safety risk. Postal vehicles like the LLV and Metris are right-hand drive (RHD) vehicles, requiring specific training to handle them safely and effectively. If you’re asked to drive one of these vehicles without prior training, you’re setting yourself up for potential trouble.
It’s not just about driving skills—it’s about knowing how to handle postal equipment, operate the vehicle in various conditions, and ensure you’re complying with USPS safety protocols. Without the right training, accidents can happen, and you could be held liable for any damage or injuries.
When Management Gets It Wrong
Management may often push employees to do whatever it takes to keep the mail moving, but they’re not always considering the risks involved. When they ask someone outside the trained carrier role to deliver mail or drive an RHD vehicle, they’re ignoring key safety and legal protocols.
If an accident happens, management may try to shift blame onto the untrained employee, even if they were only following orders. If you’re told to do something unsafe or outside your training, it’s critical to refuse. The risk of injury or damage to vehicles is too great to ignore.
Know Your Rights: Refuse Unsafe Orders
Employees must understand when it’s appropriate to say “no.” If you’re asked to take on tasks like driving a vehicle you aren’t trained to operate or delivering mail outside your role, refusing is not only the right choice—it’s the safe one. Management can’t force you to put yourself or others in danger, especially if it’s against your training.
In these situations, it’s essential to stand your ground. Not only will it protect you from accidents or injuries, but it will also help prevent disciplinary action that could arise if something goes wrong.
The Role of the Union: Protecting Employees
When management oversteps by pushing employees into untrained roles or unsafe situations, the union becomes a crucial ally. If you’re ever asked to perform duties outside your training, file a grievance. The union is there to ensure that employees are not being exploited or placed in risky situations without proper support.
The union helps maintain the integrity of your role and ensures you’re compensated fairly for any work that falls outside your official duties. If you’re being asked to drive a vehicle you haven’t been trained on or deliver mail you’re not authorized to handle, it’s time to get your union steward involved.
Conclusion: Prioritize Safety and Know Your Limits
At the USPS, different jobs have specific tasks. Carriers deliver mail, while clerks handle sorting and other office work. Sometimes, clerks might be asked to deliver mail, which isn’t their job. This can be dangerous, especially if they’re asked to drive special vehicles like the ones carriers use.
These vehicles, like the LLV and Metris, are tricky to drive and need special training. If something goes wrong—like an accident—the clerk could get in trouble, even though they were just following orders.
If you’re ever asked to do something you’re not trained for, it’s important to say no. Your safety comes first. You can also talk to your union for help if management asks you to do something unsafe or outside your job.
The main idea is: know your job, stay safe, and get the right training.