In United States labor history, the term describes an action taken by an employer to prevent employees from working. It is essentially the employer’s version of a strike, where instead of employees refusing to work, the employer refuses to allow them to work. A common example occurs when management closes the doors of a business during a labor dispute, preventing unionized employees from entering until they agree to the company’s terms. This tactic is often employed during collective bargaining negotiations.
The implementation of this strategy has historically been a significant maneuver in labor-management relations. It is frequently used to pressure workers into accepting less favorable contract terms regarding wages, benefits, or working conditions. Its legality and specific parameters are often governed by federal and state labor laws, making understanding the legal precedent surrounding these actions crucial. The impacts of these actions can be profound, affecting workers’ livelihoods, company productivity, and broader economic stability.
