Collective bargaining
Collective bargaining is the process by which a certified union and an employer negotiate a collective agreement setting wages, benefits and working conditions for a group of unionized employees. Once a union is certified, the employer must bargain with the union rather than with individual employees, and both sides must bargain in good faith.
How BC law treats it
In BC, collective bargaining for provincially regulated employers is governed by the Labour Relations Code, RSBC 1996, c 244, administered by the BC Labour Relations Board. Federally regulated employers, such as banks and interprovincial transportation, fall under the Canada Labour Code.
What it means for your business
An employer facing a union organizing drive must avoid conduct that could be seen as interfering with employees' choice, as this can lead to unfair labour practice complaints.
Risks and common mistakes
Changing wages or working conditions after a union applies for certification can breach statutory freeze provisions.
Browse the full Fulcrum Law Dictionary for related terms.
General information about British Columbia and Canadian law, current to October 2026. It is not legal advice.
