Trade unions
Trade unions represent workers鈥 interests, protect employees鈥 rights, and fight against unfair changes in the balance between employee and employer鈥檚 rights and responsibilities.
You can choose to become a member of a trade union. Each union charges a monthly membership fee.
When things go wrong in the workplace, trade unions talk to employers on the employees鈥 behalf. Trade unions may suggest industrial action if the problem cannot be fixed in these talks.
Industrial action
Industrial action comes in different forms, some more severe than others.
"Go slow"
This is when workers slow down the speed of their work. This causes orders to be filled late, customers to become angry, and the employer to lose money.
Working to rule
This is when employees only carry out the tasks that are outlined in their contract. So many jobs must be done in a company that the contract cannot cover them all. A 鈥榳orking to rule鈥 action may cause disturbance to the smooth running of the company and affect profits.
Short strike
A strike is when workers refuse to work. A short strike lasts less than a day.
All-out strike
An all-out strike is a serious industrial action, and is used as a last resort when an employer will not make the changes that their employees most want to see.
Workers on an all-out strike form a 鈥榩icket line鈥 outside their place of work. This is a protest that draws attention to the workers鈥 problems with their employer.
Strikes damage employers鈥 profits, future orders and reputations.
Conditions during a strike
The decision to go on strike is not an easy one to make. Employees and their trade unions have to consider the costs.
Employees do not get paid during a strike.
This can have a serious impact on their families, causing stress and financial problems.
Striking workers are not entitled to government benefits during a strike. The trade union may use some of the membership fees to give them a small amount of money.