Within the HRPA Human Resources Competency Framework (Functional Domain: Labour and Employee Relations) and the CHRP Knowledge Exam Blueprint, HR professionals must demonstrate knowledge of labour relations principles, including types of work stoppages, dispute resolution mechanisms, and employee tactics during collective bargaining conflicts.
Work-to-rule is a form of job action or labour disruption tactic used by unionized employees when negotiations have broken down but before or instead of a full strike.
Key definitions and distinctions:
Work-to-Rule
Employees perform only the minimum requirements of their job descriptions and strictly adhere to workplace rules, deliberately reducing productivity.
The goal is to exert pressure on management while remaining within the letter of the employment contract.
Extract:
“A work-to-rule campaign involves employees performing tasks strictly according to job descriptions and policies, resulting in reduced output without a formal work stoppage.”
(HRPA Competency Framework – Labour and Employee Relations, Knowledge Area: Labour Legislation and Collective Bargaining Practices)
Wildcat Strike
An illegal strike that occurs without union authorization or in violation of a collective agreement.
Right to Work
Refers to laws (primarily in the U.S.) that prohibit mandatory union membership or dues as a condition of employment; not a Canadian labour relations concept.
Essential Services Agreement
A prearranged agreement ensuring that critical public services continue during a strike or lockout.
Therefore, D. Work to rule correctly describes employees’ actions during a labour dispute when they intentionally reduce productivity by adhering strictly to rules.
Verified Reference Summary (HRPA Frameworks and Study Materials):
HRPA Human Resources Competency Framework – Functional Domain: Labour and Employee Relations
CHRP Knowledge Exam Blueprint (HRPA, Ontario)
HRPA Exam Preparation Guide – Labour Relations and Collective Bargaining Section
Ontario Labour Relations Act, 1995 (Context Reference for Strike and Job Action Definitions)