HOW THE OCCUPATIONAL PHYSICIAN WORKS WITH THE UNIONS

A few altitudinal and behavioural principles will bring about a produc tive liaison between the occupational physician and trade unions. An e ffective working relationship with these organizations and employee as sociations can be developed, provided the occupational health care pro fessionals are impartial in their practice, the loyalty to medicine re placing any bias toward the favouring of a managerial view. Respect mu st be given union officials, for in their organization they have statu s and can advance or defeat various health programs. Union representat ion on an occupational health committee will gain union support and mi nimize the filing of health-based grievances. The presentation of occu pational health information at union meetings will communicate the goa ls of in-plant programs and familiarize workers, through their accusto med channels, with the objectives of health care policies and procedur es.