What is the purpose of a collective agreement in the workplace?

The purpose of a collective agreement in the workplace is to outline terms of employment between an employer and a union. These agreements are the results of negotiations between the union, which represents the workers, and the employer, establishing the working conditions, wages, hours, benefits, and other key aspects of employment. By having a collective agreement, both parties have a clear understanding of their rights and obligations, which helps to promote a fair and structured work environment. This legal document serves to protect employees' interests while also providing the employer with a framework for managing their workforce under agreed-upon terms.

The significance of a collective agreement lies in its ability to foster a cooperative relationship between the workforce and management, enabling issues to be addressed through negotiation rather than conflict.