Unless workers have a union contract, they are at the mercy of company policies.

Most employment handbooks clearly state that policies are “guidelines only and not a contract of employment” or that the terms of the handbook are subject to change without notice.

Even under a company’s “open-door” policy, there is nothing to really make anyone believe that the policy is meaningful.

It’s not surprising then that workers without a union are often subject to arbitrariness and unfairness on the job.

Workers without a contract are considered “employees at will.” That means they can be fired at any time and without reason, the only exceptions are termination for discrimination, whistle-blowing or union organizing.

If you join a union and have a contract:

-  Discipline, up to and including discharge, is subject to a grievance procedure and binding arbitration, depending on the terms of your contract.
-  Contract negotiations require both sides — labor and management — to listen, and reach reasonable compromises acceptable to both sides.
-  Wages, benefits and working conditions are negotiated. If you are not satisfied, you can work for changes during contract negotiations.
-  Neither labor nor management can make unilateral changes to a signed contract. If modifications are necessary during the life of a contract, both sides must agree.
-  Hiring and promotion is covered by contract. Seniority and other factors can be written into the agreement.

If your workplace is non-union:

-  You are an “employee at will.” Your employer can discipline or fire you at any time for any reason; you have no recourse.
-  “Open door” policy means the employer will listen to you… and then do whatever he or she wants.
-  Employer determines wages, benefits and other terms and conditions of work. If you’re not satisfied, your only option is to get another job.
-  Wages, benefits and other terms and conditions can be changed by the employer at any time.
-  Hiring and promotion is up to the discretion of the employer.

The Facts

Union employees make an average of 30% more than non-union workers.

92% of union workers have job-related health coverage versus 68% of non-union workers.

Union workers are more likely to have guaranteed pensions than non-union employees.