The OC Register recently reported on labor unions working to organize carwash workers. You can read the entire piece here. Or read the summary below:

“So far, nearly 200 workers at 23 Southern California carwashes have signed collective bargaining agreements with their bosses, and campaigns are underway at other outlets.”

The newest union carwashes include Highland Car Wash, Bryan’s Car Wash and Supreme Car Wash.

“Many workers don’t earn minimum wage. Some work for tips only. They’re often denied rest breaks or shade to eat their lunch. Some are exposed to dangerous chemicals without protective equipment.”

Organizing the carwash industry is a unique challenge for unions because the workers face extra barriers to achieving justice.

“A third or more of the workforce is undocumented, according to studies, and many workers speak little English. Eighty percent of carwashes are operated by a single owner, a fact that makes organizing difficult.”

The union is facing an uphill battle. With a staff of eight, they only have the capacity to organize a few worksites at a time. This is among the reasons that carwash workers need comprehensive protection from poor working conditions, abuse and wage theft.

“In the past five years, inspectors have issued 1,423 citations for failing to pay workers compensation, minimum wage and overtime, refusing to provide itemized pay statements, denying rest and meal breaks and operating without a license.”

Many carwasheros are denied water breaks, something that is beyond cruel. All work has dignity. And our overall goal is to improve working conditions in the industry; that is evident in our history.

The CLEAN Carwash Campaign welcomes any new carwash workers to the worker center. Carwasheros can join the center as “members” if they participate in protests, picketing or other organizing activities.

Posted by Carwash Camp on Sunday, September 14th, 2014 @ 7:13PM
Categories: A Better Carwash, Blogs, News & Events