EAP and Professional Standards Committee
Professional Standards is a component of AFA EAP. It exists to assist Flight Attendants in any area that affects professional conduct. We all must take personal responsibility for creating a cooperative, respectful work environment that is tolerant of different opinions. When conflict occurs, we must take it upon ourselves to address and make every effort to resolve it respectfully.
When issues are taken to management, essentially “reporting” on a fellow Flight Attendant or employee from another department, the consequences can unintentionally become severe for all parties involved. When a conflict or disagreement arises throughout the course of our workday or away from the line, we encourage the resolution of any disagreement by trying to discuss the specific behavior or area of contention with the individual(s) involved and working to find an acceptable solution. We recommend Flight Attendants approach each other and speak about the problem in a calm, non-threatening manner, out of the view of passengers. When emotions are high and nerves are fried it is sometimes best to wait to discuss the matter until both parties have had time to think more clearly.
When a resolution can be achieve leaving all parties satisfied, Professional Standards is there to confidentially assist in conflict resolution. Your AFA EAP Representative can help you to work through conflicts and avoid “writing up” a fellow Flight Attendant or other employee. This protects all parties involved from potential disciplinary ramifications resulting from an investigation triggered by a report.
EAP Representatives are trained to handle Professional Standards issues and are there to support their fellow Flight Attendants. When you contact Professional Standards, a Representative will listen to your concerns and will follow up on the situation and pursue the appropriate action necessary. Confidentiality is the cornerstone of AFA’s EAP Committee. Because of this, representatives will not report back to you concerning conversations with other parties involved or any recommendations that were made during follow-up conversations.
Visit AFA-CWA to find an EAP Representative in your Local Base.