Unions

Question 1

Define unions

Answer 1

• collective organization of workers premised on the defense and advancement of the interest of their members
• bargain collectively with employers

Question 2

what are the three different levels of unions

Answer 2

• national union: consist of elected positions
• local union: have multiple certification units
• certification units: at the employer level, where bargaining occurs, has a shop steward who represents the union on the job site

Question 3

what are the steps in the formation of a union

Answer 3

• anyone can ask for a union election, employees then sign membership cards
• if 51% sign yes, then no election is required
• if 45% vote yes, then an election will take place in BC (35% elsewhere)
• these same steps apply when decertification of a union takes place

Question 4

What can’t employers do if their employees want to form a union

Answer 4

• threaten job loss, layoff…
• distribute anti-union leaflets printed at work
• cannot hold anti-union meetings
• reassign union supporters to less desirable shifts
• intimidate union supporters

Question 5

What can employers do if their employees want to join a union

Answer 5

• give their opinion on unions without threat or undue influence
• provide alternate solutions: raises, increased benefits, meetings
• send letters to employees homes
• close their businesses

Question 6

why do people join unions

Answer 6

• because they are unhappy with their organization’s decision making processes and performance appraisal systems
• poor perceived organizational justice
• dissatisfied with work, pay, supervision, promotions (r=0.35)

Question 7

what are the 5 key issues that are bargained with unions

cume c

Answer 7

• compensation/work conditions
• employee security
• union security
• management rights
• contract duration

Question 8

what is a grievance

Answer 8

• stating the agreement has not been followed

Question 9

what are the steps taken in a grievance

Answer 9

• employee states grievance to supervisor
• shop steward and supervisor go to industrial relations
• arbitration; cost sharing
• grievance arbitration

Question 10

what factors affect people filing grievances

Answer 10

• poor relations

- weak contracts

Question 11

What steps are taken after a grievance has been made

Answer 11

• mediation: the mediator acts as a catalyst, the discussion leader and advisor assist the parties in setting their differences
• fact finding: a 3rd party reviews the facts and shows them to the public
• arbitration: a process where two or more parties who have been unable to negotiate a solution to a problem agree to put matters into the hands of an independent neutral person to provide an answer

Question 12

what happens when no decision can be reached between parties (impasse)

Answer 12

• strikes
• work slow down; only providing essential services
• lockout
• sabotage

Question 13

how to unions increase job satisfaction

Answer 13

• better OH&S, benefits, pay, security
• provides a sense of belonging and power
• the grievance process increases sense of organizational justice