Melissa Healy and Ryan Kunkel Break Down the NLRA’s Impact on Employers

In a recent article in the HR Daily Advisor, “Union or Not, Strikes Happen: What Every Employer Needs to Know,” labor and employment attorneys Melissa Healy and Ryan Kunkel outline for employers—both unionized and nonunionized—how to navigate the protections afforded to employees under  the National Labor Relations Act (NLRA), which grants most nonmanagement employees the freedom to engage in collective actions, including strikes, even in nonunionized workplaces.

The authors provide several recommendations for employers seeking to remediate any employee complaints that may lead to collective action, including maintaining open communication, respecting employee rights under the NLRA, regularly reviewing workplace policies, and providing management training on labor rights.

They conclude: “The uptick in recent union activity serves as a reminder that the right to strike is not limited to unionized workplaces. Employers must recognize that the NLRA protects all employees’ rights to engage in concerted activities, including strikes. By being aware of these rights and taking proactive steps to address employee concerns, employers can better navigate the complexities of labor relations and maintain a positive and productive work environment.”