Car wash workers in Los Angeles might soon see improved working conditions. What was once a sparkling industry in Los Angeles has turned into an industry plagued by hazardous working conditions and pay below the minimum wage. Many of the car wash workers are repeatedly exposed to chemical hazards and long hours with very little pay, many going without lunch breaks.
That soon might change as carwash workers start to unionize in hopes of earning better pay and better labor standards. Even without unionization, many workers might find that their workplace conditions are in violation of laws. Every worker should have the right to a safe work environment that adheres to all federal and state wage and hour laws.
Although only 60 workers have joined the union so far, which is part of the United Steelworkers union, many more may follow. There are currently over 10,000 car washers in the Los Angeles area. Many of these people, who are an integral part of the Los Angeles community, are subject to below minimum wage pay, and work environments that most people would not tolerate.
Organizers say the workers will receive pay of $8.16 per hour as part of the union. The union will also work to protect its members from unsafe working conditions. The workers are trying to turn back years of wrongful employment practices in the car wash industry.
Those who face unfair working conditions or wages may want to seek out the help of an experienced employment law attorney.
Source: Huffington Post, “Car Wash Workers Unionize In Los Angeles,” Lila Shapiro, Feb. 23, 2012