In distinguishing between gripes and grievances, stewards should remember that grievances usually involve contract violations, violations of law or agency regulations, unilateral changes in workplace conditions or violations of health and safety standards. At times, however, even the most valid complaint simply doesn't measure up to a legitimate grievance. Common sense and precedent may be the only methods for determining whether such a complaint amounts to a grievance. If the complaint is valid, it might be a proper issue to talk about at a labor management meeting. However, to keep their credibility and effectiveness with the membership as well as management, the steward should make every effort to assure that most of the grievances they handle are "legitimate."