USPS Position Letter: Article 8; Hours of Work, Article 10; Leave (1983)

The question in this grievance is whether management violated Articles 8 and 10 of the National Agreement by requiring the grievant to submit a PS 3971 to be excused from overtime. The matters presented by you as well as the applicable contractual provisions have been reviewed and given careful consideration. The union contends that a PS 3971 (Request for, or Notification, of Absence) is used only for absences from the regularly scheduled workday and is a voluntary form. It is the position of the U. S. Postal Service that the use of a PS 3971 is not restricted to regular work hours. A PS 3971 may be used at any time an employee requests to be excused from duty. This includes overtime as provided for under Article 8, Section 5. The use of a PS 3971 for documenting absences from overtime assists in complying with the intent of Article 8, Section 5.E. The completion of the PS 3971 is voluntary; however, if this form is not completed, then the request to be excused from overtime may be denied […]