We also note that the Employer mentions none in its written submission. While the Employer's safety-related concerns appear speculative, common sense dictates that electrical cords might create problems in this industrial workplace. For this reason, our order specifies that only battery-operated radios may be used. Permitting the use of one or no earphones should enable employees to hear messages that the Employer broadcasts over the intercom. Finally, we agree with the Union that listening to radios during personal time may help to reduce stress.
Radios are to be used in a courteous manner and played at a low volume.
By direction of the Panel. The Employer did not submit a rebuttal statement. The Union's proposal contains no limitations on the types of radios employees may use.