Escape From Area 605

No, it’s not a mystery science fiction novel. It’s real and coworkers who get stuck in it need to know how to get free and back to work. 

Area 605 can help you preserve your job at the CTA. If you are in the Sick Book beyond 60 days, you will be automatically assigned to it. See details about how it works in Attachment D of the Collective Bargaining Agreement ("The Contract").

By the way, if you are hurt while working (also known as Injured on Duty, IOD or Workers' Compensation), you may also be placed in Area 605. Learn more about IOD and what to do if you are hurt at work.

You will remain in Area 605 while you get treatment and heal. However, according to Attachment D, the limit is two years. There is an exception for an extension of an additional year, if you notify the CTA 90 days prior to the end—and you provide the necessary documentation. After that period of time is up, the CTA will probably fire you—and there will be no getting your job back.

Sometimes you can be in Area 605 while at work. That would be "light duty." This is covered in Attachments A, B, D and No. 29 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. This includes those who were in the EAP.

Regardless, when it is time to get back to work, get back to your manager at the terminal or shop. Show up in person and say "I want to sign out of 605 and get back to work." It is just like signing out of the "Sick Book." They will arrange for a doctor visit and any retraining that may be needed. 

It's that simple! 

However, there are some very sneaky traps the CTA mismanagement has gotten away with regarding cancelling your health insurance. See this article about Termination of Health Insurance in Area 605. 

Another sneaky trap is the CTA might try to get away with revoking a schedule that you picked if you were out more than six months. See "No. 29 Transfer to Area 605" in the Attachments A, B, D and No., 29 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement. Frankly, it is somewhat convoluted and I am still trying to get my head around it. Maybe you can do better and let me know.

Call me or any other trusted union steward or officer with any questions. 

Special thanks to Brother Local 308 Vice President, Mark Weems, for his assistance.