Trade Unions and Their Impact

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts related to trade unions, their roles, impacts, and objectives in the workplace and economy.

Trade Union

An organization with the objective of improving the conditions of their members and providing support and legal services when required.

Craft Union

The oldest type of union which provided a union for workers of particular skills, such as printers.

Industrial Union

A union that represents workers of all types of skill within the same industry.

Collective Bargaining

The process by which a trade union negotiates with employers on behalf of its members for better terms and conditions.

Sit-in

A type of industrial action where members occupy the workplace but do not perform their normal duties.

Strikes

A form of industrial action where members refuse to work, impacting production and potentially profits.

Negative Impacts of Trade Unions

Trade unions can be viewed negatively in the media for industrial actions like strikes that disrupt productivity.

Positive Impacts of Trade Unions

Trade unions negotiate for better pay and working conditions, which can raise living standards.

Benefits of Joining a Trade Union

Strength in numbers, advice if dismissed, improved working conditions, and possible influence on government decisions.

Work-to-rule

A form of industrial action where workers do only the minimum required by their job contracts.

Go-slow

A form of industrial action where workers perform their duties at a deliberately slow pace.

Legislative Pressure

The process by which trade unions pressure governments to pass laws favorable to workers.

Employee Objectives

Employees aim to maximize wages, work in a safe environment, have good employment terms, and job security.

Business Objectives

Businesses aim to maximize profits, maximize sales, and minimize costs.

Conflict in Workplace

The tension that arises when employee wage increases can lead to heightened business costs and reduced profits.

Redundancy Support

Support provided by trade unions to members who lose their jobs unfairly.

General Union

A union that represents anyone regardless of their specific industry.