Labor Union Vote Pending for Snorkel Employees

June 26, 2008 • On May 21, the National Labor Relations Board received a petition from workers at Snorkel International, Elwood, Kan., requesting a vote to organize a labor union. Snorkel has not unionized before, although there was an effort to organize about 10 years ago. Sources have reported to Lift and Access that the vote is scheduled to take place Friday.

Steve Nickel, grand lodge representative for the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, told the St. Joseph News-Press that safety concerns, as well as wages and benefits, are issues the union wants to address.

 

Last week, the Tanfield Group, parent company of Snorkel, confirmed that President Frank Scarborough has parted with the company. Tanfield has not commented on Scarborough's replacement.