*2.3. Probationary Period*

Based on the collective bargaining agreement between workers and management, each new hourly employee was considered "probationary" for a period of 60 calendar days from the date of hire. During the probationary period, new employees (i) were not under the jurisdiction of the collective bargaining agreement, (ii) had limited access to overtime work, and (iii) were unable to request job reassignment within the facility. After 60 calendar days from the date of hire, each employee was considered a "regular" employee subject to all collective bargaining provisions regardless of formal affiliation with the labor organization.

The 60-day probationary period is also consistent with estimates of the time required to recover costs associated with hiring and training unskilled workers [20]. Facility management estimated that the hiring and training costs associated with each new hire were \$5500 (on average). New hires at the study facility earn an average initial wage of approximately 15.00 \$/h. Assuming the value of labor is equivalent to the pay rate, hiring and training costs would be recovered after 367 work hours, or just over 45 8-hour work days. Generally, 45 8-hour work days will occur within 60 calendar days from the date of hire.
