19. Negotiations between an employer and the union have proceeded without success. The union has told its members to walk off the job. The employer has forbidden any union members who want to report for work from being admitted to the workplace premises. Which employer practice does this example demonstrate?
Answer: A
This example demonstrates a lockout.
A lockout occurs when an employer prevents workers from entering the workplace, typically during a labor dispute. In this case, the employer has forbidden union members who wish to work from entering the premises, which clearly illustrates the practice of a lockout.
A) Lockout
This option is correct as it accurately describes the employer's action of blocking union members from returning to work during a negotiation impasse. A lockout is a strategic response by employers to exert pressure on the union during labor disputes, aligning perfectly with the scenario presented.
B) Constructive discharge
Constructive discharge refers to a situation where an employee resigns due to an employer creating a hostile or unbearable work environment. This option is incorrect because the situation described does not involve employees resigning; rather, it involves the employer actively preventing employees from working.
C) Wildcat strike
A wildcat strike is an unauthorized work stoppage by union members without the union's approval. This option does not apply, as the scenario describes a situation where the employer is locking out employees, not a spontaneous strike initiated by workers.
D) Retaliatory termination
Retaliatory termination occurs when an employer dismisses an employee in response to their involvement in legally protected activities, such as union organizing. While this option involves employer actions against employees, it does not fit the situation where the employer is refusing entry to workers rather than terminating their employment.
Conclusion
The correct identification of a lockout is clear in this scenario, as the employer's actions directly prevent union members from entering the workplace. Other options fail to accurately represent the circumstances, as they either involve resignation, unauthorized strikes, or terminations rather than the practice of barring employees from work.