Managing Industrial Action

Collective conflict can take many forms from disorganised resistance to full-blown strike action. Any type of action can be costly and damaging to employers and workers. Therefore, this chapter aims to help students and practitioners understand how issues or changes in the workplace can lead to collective conflict and in particular strike action. The chapter will outline the different roles parties play during a strike, how a strike develops and some of the practical steps which can be taken during a period of industrial conflict. There is first-hand information from workers who have gone on strike, practical hints and tips from mediators who help to address conflict and a detailed case study to draw out the important points to consider. Overall, the chapter will help readers to understand the dynamics of industrial conflict, so they can represent the interests of their organisations, identify opportunities to resolve issues and maintain relationships with employees and unions.