Define: Closed Shop

Closed Shop
Closed Shop
Quick Summary of Closed Shop

A closed shop is a workplace where only union members are allowed to be hired. This means that an employer can only hire individuals who are already members of a specific labour union, or who are willing to join that union shortly after being hired. The closed shop arrangement was common in certain industries and regions, particularly during the mid-20th century when labour unions wielded significant influence. However, it has become less prevalent due to changes in labour laws and practices, as well as shifts in the structure of the workforce. Today, closed shops are generally prohibited or restricted by labour laws in many jurisdictions, which aim to protect workers’ rights to join or refrain from joining a labour union freely.

What is the dictionary definition of Closed Shop?
Dictionary Definition of Closed Shop

n. a business that will hire only union members by choice or by agreement with the unions, although the Labor-Management Relations Act prohibits closed shop practices which require employees to be union members. A “union shop” is a business in which a majority of the workers have voted to name a union as their certified bargaining agent.

Full Definition Of Closed Shop

A closed shop refers to a workplace where membership in a specific labour union is a prerequisite for employment. This means that individuals who are not members of the designated union cannot be hired or retained by the employer. The closed shop policy is often implemented to promote unionization and collective bargaining within the workplace. However, it is important to note that closed shops are generally prohibited or heavily regulated in many jurisdictions, as they may infringe upon an individual’s right to freedom of association and discriminate against non-union workers.

Closed Shop FAQ'S

A closed shop is a workplace where only union members are allowed to be employed. Non-union workers are not eligible for employment in a closed shop.

Closed shops are generally illegal in the United States under the National Labour Relations Act (NLRA). The NLRA prohibits employers from requiring employees to join a union as a condition of employment.

Yes, there are some exceptions to the prohibition on closed shops. In certain industries, such as the construction industry, closed shops may be allowed under specific circumstances.

No, a closed shop cannot be established through a collective bargaining agreement. The NLRA prohibits employers and unions from entering into agreements that require employees to join a union as a condition of employment.

No, an employer cannot discriminate against non-union workers in a closed shop. The NLRA prohibits employers from discriminating against employees based on their union membership or lack thereof.

An employer cannot terminate a non-union worker solely because they are not a union member in a closed shop. However, if the non-union worker engages in misconduct or violates workplace rules, they can be terminated like any other employee.

Non-union workers in a closed shop have the right to join the union if they choose to do so. However, they cannot be compelled or forced to join the union as a condition of employment.

In a closed shop, non-union workers can be required to pay union dues or fees as a condition of employment. This is known as an agency fee or fair share fee, which covers the cost of collective bargaining and representation.

Non-union workers in a closed shop have the right to file complaints against the union if they believe their rights have been violated. They can file a complaint with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) or seek legal recourse through the courts.

Related Phrases
No related content found.
Disclaimer

This site contains general legal information but does not constitute professional legal advice for your particular situation. Persuing this glossary does not create an attorney-client or legal adviser relationship. If you have specific questions, please consult a qualified attorney licensed in your jurisdiction.

This glossary post was last updated: 6th April, 2024.

Cite Term

To help you cite our definitions in your bibliography, here is the proper citation layout for the three major formatting styles, with all of the relevant information filled in.

  • Page URL:https://dlssolicitors.com/define/closed-shop/
  • Modern Language Association (MLA):Closed Shop. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. April 18, 2024 https://dlssolicitors.com/define/closed-shop/.
  • Chicago Manual of Style (CMS):Closed Shop. dlssolicitors.com. DLS Solicitors. https://dlssolicitors.com/define/closed-shop/ (accessed: April 18, 2024).
  • American Psychological Association (APA):Closed Shop. dlssolicitors.com. Retrieved April 18, 2024, from dlssolicitors.com website: https://dlssolicitors.com/define/closed-shop/