Probation Period

🕐 Daily Schedule and Breaks for CCAs

The most important thing to learn is to try to do your assigned tasks as efficiently as possible and to communicate any problems or delays with your Manager.  But ALSO, realize that most management demands are unrealistice, trying to push you into times that are usually too fast to be safe and accurate.  But you will have to navigate the communication here with your Manager and your Union Steward, to survive your 90 days.

📅 Reporting to Work

• You'll be given a report time — typically early morning — when you are expected to clock in using your MDD scanner.
• Use the "Begin Tour" function to start your workday and ensure accurate pay tracking.
• .Key Point:  When you receive an assignment to assist with part of a route,  the things that SHOULD happen are:  1.  You have a brief instruction from the Regular Carrier on the Route you will be taking.  Often, the packets of flats are labelled by the Regular, about specifics like NBU's (Neighborhood Box Units) vs. Park and Loop walking routes.  Also, be sure to get all of the route keys and apartment or business entrance clickers or access codes, to get access to everything you will need.

🥪 Lunch Breaks

• CCAs are entitled to an unpaid lunch break, usually 30 minutes.
• You must scan "Begin Lunch" and "End Lunch" on your MDD scanner.
• Lunch should be taken at the time and location assigned by your supervisor (typically on the street or at the station).
• If your schedule is disrupted, communicate with management before skipping or delaying lunch.

☕ Comfort (Rest) Breaks

• CCAs are generally allowed a paid 10-minute break in the first half and second half of their shift (per local practice or MOU).
• These are not required to be scanned but should be taken responsibly.
• If conditions prevent a break (e.g., bad weather, no facilities), report this to your supervisor.

📲 Communicating Delays or Schedule Changes

• If you anticipate running late on your route, notify your supervisor before your expected return time.
• Use PS Form 3996 to request overtime or auxiliary help if you can't complete your assignment on time.
• Unexpected delays (dogs, blocked access, customer issues) should be logged with your scanner and reported as needed.

⏰ Common Scanning Events Related to Time

• Begin Tour – Start of your workday
• Leave to Street – When you begin delivery
• Begin Lunch / End Lunch – Used for unpaid break
• Return to Office – After delivery is complete
• End Tour – When you officially clock out

🧾 Helpful Forms

• PS Form 3996: Used to request additional time or assistance
• PS Form 1571: Documents curtailed or undelivered mail due to time or workload constraints

📚 Related Topics

• Clock Rings Basics
• Scanner Procedures
• Forms and Logs