Your Rights

Under the law in Alberta, you have legal rights as a worker.

Teamsters Union 987 is part of a legacy of labour unions that have fought for over a century to guarantee that every workplace has standards, but there is still work to do.

The most important right to be aware of is that for almost all employees you are allowed to organize (form or join a labour union) in your workplace.

Unfortunately, most employers will resist bringing a union into their company, so being aware of your right to organize is essential. If your employer violates any of the following rights at any point in the process of forming a union, contact your Teamsters Union 987 organizer – outside of work hours – immediately.

• You can discuss forming a union with co-workers while not working – on break, at lunch, before and after your shift. This includes:
  • Having meetings;
  • Distributing flyers and other informational tools
• You have the right to hand out and sign petitions or membership cards outside of working hours.
• You have the right to lodge a formal complaint against your employer with the help of Teamsters Union 987, if they have legitimately acted against the Alberta Labour Relations Code. You have the right to vote in favour of forming a union without any interference from your employer.
• You have the right to be free from any form of influence from your employer regarding joining a union. Illegal actions by the employer include:
  • Asking your opinion of the union;
  • Making any threats to supporters of the union;
  • Giving or offering preferential treatment (raises, better hours, etc.) to employees who oppose the union;
  • Preventing employees from organizing outside of work time;
  • Distributing any anti-union materials in an attempt to persuade employees’ decisions to unionize.

Teamsters Union 987 is always available to answer any questions about your rights. Contact us at any time. We are here to help.