Frequently Asked Questions
The following provides general information for non-striking employees in the event of a labour disruption.
The open nature of campus provides the means for employees to choose alternate routes to access campus that avoids locations where picketing is occurring. It is important to note that the presence of a picket line and the need for the employee to cross it does not automatically constitute a safety risk.
For an employee to refuse to cross a picket line due to safety concerns, they must have reasonable grounds, which cannot be speculative or hypothetical, to believe their physical safety is endangered. In such circumstances, they should immediately contact the Picket Hotline at 613-533-6464 to report the circumstances and receive assistance; remain in a safe place near the work location; and inform their supervisor that they are awaiting assistance from Campus Security and Emergency Services and are unable to attend to their duties pending such assistance.     
All employees not in a striking bargaining unit are required to attend work as normal.
Any request for an alternate work arrangement will be subject to approval based on operational needs of the department consistent with established work practices and collective agreements, if applicable. 
It is normal for there to be heightened emotions during a strike. While striking employees are entitled to picket, and an employer is entitled to continue its operations, no one is entitled to intimidate or coerce others. If you are experiencing intimidation, please review the university’s Harassment and Discrimination Prevention and Response Policy, or any applicable legislation.
Everyone should exercise caution and prioritize their safety when navigating picket lines. If employees who are going to work encounter delays, they should communicate, when able, with their managers. Managers should exercise flexibility to the extent they are able when employees are late for work due to navigating picket lines.