PSAC federal budget fightback
Union activity in the workplace: know your rights
As a PSAC member you have the right to promote and build your union in the workplace. You also have the right to be kept informed on the employer’s premises during non-work time, before or after your shift and during paid or unpaid breaks and lunch periods. This is the law.
You have the right to:
- Read union literature. You can also sign petitions and share information about the union’s campaigns during non-working time. Talk to co-workers about the union at work as you would any other subject – help keep everyone informed about PSAC activities. Hand out leaflets before and after work. You can distribute materials outside or inside the workplace to connect with members. Even if the entrance is in a commercial area, you have a legal right to engage in this activity. The employer is prohibited from interfering with these lawful union activities.
- Desk drops. Participate in “desk drops” at members’ work stations. You are absolutely allowed to distribute publications that reflect the union’s perspective on workplace issues, as long as the information is accurate and non-defamatory. This is a great way to invite members to information sessions, provide updates on union business and recruit new volunteers.
- Post information on union bulletin boards. Collective agreements generally allow you to use workplace bulletin boards for union purposes. Make these boards “communication central” for the union by keeping them up to date. Remember to include contact information for local representatives.
- Wear the union message. You can get other members and the public on-side by wearing buttons, lanyards, stickers, t-shirts and other items that communicate the union’s message. Even if you wear a uniform, there are options!
If management is interfering with your rights or you are being discouraged from participating in the union in any way, contact your union representative.
You have the right to be informed. Unions have the obligation and right to keep members informed and to engage members in union activity.
Have questions about your rights? Need some support? Contact your union representative.
If anyone interferes with your right to carry out union activity in the workplace, let your union know. PSAC will take action to support your right to distribute and receive union information at work.
Date Modified : 2011/07/14
