University of Washington Policy Directory

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*Formerly part of the University Handbook
Administrative Policy Statement
43.1



Employee Representative Access—Organizing and Conduct of Business

(Approved by the Executive Vice President by authority of Administrative Order No. 9)



1.  Policy

As reflected in the Higher Education Personnel Board Rules: "Classified employees shall have, and shall be protected in the exercise of the right to form, join, and/or assist any employee organization, or to refrain therefrom, (except as provided in WAC 251-14-058) and to do so freely and without fear of penalty or reprisal." (WAC 251-14-010)

2.  Conditions of Policy

The University's policy on union access is designed to ensure that employee rights are protected as well as to ensure that the normal functioning of University departments, facilities or hospitals is not disturbed. The policy allows employee organization representatives to meet with or contact employees in designated places, provided the following conditions are met:

  • When visiting the University, union organizers or employee representatives must identify themselves to the appropriate University administrator or designee and conduct themselves so as not to disrupt the normal functioning of the department, facility, or hospital.

  • Individual or group meetings must take place on the employees' own time; that is, away from the work area during meal periods, or rest breaks, or outside of working hours except as otherwise provided by a collective bargaining agreement.

  • Individual or group meetings must be held in locations in which there will be no disruption or interference with departmental or institutional operations and where the activities of other employees, clients, patients or visitors will not be affected. Further, union meetings or activities are not allowed in patient care areas of the University or Harborview Hospitals nor any other University-affiliated patient care setting.

  • Use of University facilities must be scheduled by the union as specified in the University's reservation and approval procedures. (WAC 478-136-025) Use of departmental conference rooms or other areas must be approved by the departmental manager.

3.  Additional Information

Any questions regarding this policy may be directed to the Labor Relations Office:

Or contact the appropriate Human Resources Service Team Member listed on the Human Resources Service Team Assignments web page.

May 1, 2002.