Amazon delivery drivers join U.S. union over heatwave safety
* Heatwave in 2022 triggered union push among Amazon drivers * Contractor in California signed first-ever union agreement * Amazon says drivers are...
* Heatwave in 2022 triggered union push among Amazon drivers * Contractor in California signed first-ever union agreement * Amazon says drivers are not staff, will cancel contract By Avi Asher -Schapiro LOS ANGELES, June 1 (Thomson Reuters Foundation) - D ozens of Amazon.com Inc delivery drivers in California have signed a first-of-its-kind union contract in the U.S. as fears grow over low wages, tough conditions, and workers' safety put at risk from worsening heatwaves fueled by climate change. The 84 workers in the city of Palmdale, who organized with the Teamsters union, secured pay rises, paid holidays and safety protections in April after gaining recognition from their employer Battle-Tested Strategies (BTS), a delivery firm contracted by Amazon.