Workplace rules are often written down in policies or contracts. But an important question remains:

What happens if those rules are not followed?

Without a way to challenge violations, written rules would have little practical effect. This is why union contracts include a grievance process. A grievance process provides a structured way for workers to raise concerns when a contract provision may have been applied incorrectly or overlooked.

The issue can be reviewed through a series of steps involving discussions between union representatives and management. If the issue cannot be resolved early in the process, it can move through additional steps designed to reach a resolution.

The purpose of this system is to ensure that the rules negotiated in the contract are applied consistently. Contracts establish the standards. The grievance process helps ensure those standards are respected.

Enforcement makes workplace rules real.