Technological change definitions

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These definitions establish the scope of what constitutes “technological change” for the purposes of management obligations. They typically identify the kinds of innovations—such as new equipment, software systems, or automation tools—that may trigger contractually required bargaining, notification, or job protections. Definitions often link change to measurable impacts on jobs, classifications, training requirements, or working conditions.

Examples: 

• “Technological change shall be defined as any meaningful change in equipment or materials which results in a meaningful change in the work, wages, hours, or working conditions of any classification of employees in the bargaining unit or diminishes the number of workers in any classification of employees in the bargaining unit.” (IBT-PCBA7)
• Technological change refers to the introduction of new or modified devices or equipment used to perform work by employees covered under this Agreement, which directly results in a change in the number of employees employed under this Agreement, significantly alters the job descriptions or requires substantially different training, qualifications, or skills to carry out the work of any work classification. (IATSE-PCBA30)
• “Technological change includes, but is not limited to the use of machines (including by way of example only, computers, robots, handheld devices and tablets), automation software, systems, programs, applications, or other scientific advancements to replace or substitute for, improve, alter, increase or decrease, or evolve the type or manner of work performed by employees in the Employer’s workplace.” (LJEBLV-UNITEHERE-OLMS13)
• “When the [Employer] proposes to acquire or implement a new information technology system or components for an existing system, including hardware, software, support systems, and services that are expected to adversely impact Bargaining Unit employees….” (AFGE-OPM129)
• “Whenever the installation of mechanical equipment, change in production methods, the installation of new or larger equipment, the combining of jobs or the elimination of jobs, will have an effect on the job status of one or more employees….” (USW-OLMS72)

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