Labor Relations Services

What is the National Labor Relations Act

Union Awareness—Don't Be Caught Off Guard

We are in unprecedented times when it comes to employee relations and the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA or the Act). The NLRA affords several protections to all employees, including openly discussing wages and terms and conditions of employment. The Act also protects employee rights to ‘concerted action’ or the right to get a group of employees together to discuss working conditions and work together to try to improve those conditions. All employees are protected under the Act regardless of whether there is Union representation.

The current National Labor Relations Board (NLRB or Board), which enforces the Act, is led by its General Counsel, which has stated unequivocally that the Board intends to expand employee rights and Union access in all aspects of its jurisdiction. Some examples are provided below, along with a checklist that both Union shop and non-Union employers can use to protect themselves from liability under the Act.

Other Issues on the Horizon

The General Counsel has also indicated an intent to make it easier for the Union to access the worksite and meet with employees. This means employees will have a greater likelihood of success if they claim employer interference with employee rights under the NLRA. The Board also plans to make it easier for Unions to speed up representation elections. 

If your company already has a union-organized environment, you know how critical good labor relations are when interacting with the union and interpreting your collective bargaining agreement.

However, if your company doesn’t have a union, you might not think you have a need for labor relations services: Think again. It’s always wise to invest in labor relations consultation to provide your company with a comprehensive analysis, sound advice and hopefully avoid an NLRB action filed against your company. We help ensure that your current policies, practices, and actions protect your company regardless of whether you have a union. For more information on the changing landscape in Labor Relations, read our article here.

Employer Checklist for Union Relations

Review your policies and procedures regardless of whether you have a Union, and consider the following:

• Stay Informed About Labor Laws (Hint: Follow CEA’s blog for updates)
• Create a Positive Work Environment
• Employee Engagement
• Training and Education
• Communication Strategies
• Conflict Resolution
• Monitoring Employee Satisfaction
• Legal Consultation
• Stay Informed About Union Activity
• Employee Benefits and Compensation
• Early Intervention
• Review Policies Regularly

Labor Relations Services Available

1. Collective Bargaining Assistance: Need a labor contract spokesperson and/or negotiator for your company? We help you achieve the best labor agreement and manage that contract.
2. Grievance and Dispute Resolution: Need representation in grievance procedures and arbitration hearings? We can be there for you and assist with contract language interpretation.
3. Policy: Need help reviewing or revising a collective bargaining agreement? We develop and implement labor policies and procedures for companies of all sizes and industries.
4. Management Consultation: Need union avoidance or any other management training? We provide training, education, and advice on industrial relations.

Union or not, make certain that you take full advantage of the Labor Relations services available to your company! An ounce of prevention now can help your business avoid becoming a union-organizing target in the future! Our team includes experts in the field and is ready to support your business.