Construction Electricians
Almost one-half of Local 213's members are foremen, journeymen and apprentices in the electrical construction industry. They join Local 213 because they want better wages, safer working conditions, health and welfare plans, pensions, training, and access to an international network of IBEW employment opportunities. Although it is difficult to obtain accurate non-union statistics, we believe the non-union compensation package within our geographic jurisdiction is about $10 per hour (or 27%) lower than the Local 213 compensation package. Our current hourly wage rates are as follows:

However, wages and benefits are only part of the story. Local 213 electricians enjoy working for employers who know you get what you pay for. However, Local 213 electricians also have a worldwide reputation for excellence. They take a great deal of pride in being among the most technologically-proficient and efficient construction electricians in the world.

Industrial Workers
Our industrial members join for many of the same reasons. On average, Local 213's industrial members earn at least 14% more than non-union workers. In addition, they have more time off, better health care and disability plans, shorter work days, and pension plans. Perhaps even more importantly, they can speak up about wages, about getting paid for time worked, about overtime pay, about scheduling, and about health and safety problems without fear of losing their jobs.

The laws of British Columbia protect unionized workers against unjust discipline and discharge. Unlike non-union workers, union workers can get their jobs back if an employer discharges them without just cause. Local 213 has experienced representatives who ensure that employers bound by Local 213 collective agreements comply with the law in this regard.

All Workers
All workers join unions at least in part because they want industrial democracy. Local 213 believes its members must be informed and able to fully participate in their local union. Local 213 recognizes that annual general meetings attended by hundreds of members can be intimidating and might leave the issues of smaller groups of members unaddressed. Consequently, Local 213 holds six unit meetings each month. At each unit meeting, groups of employees with similar interests discuss and resolve the issues they are closest to. They also discuss and vote on motions from the other units. Local 213 ensures that the members who are the union direct its activities.