disputes procedure

disputes procedure

a set of rules stipulating the procedures to be followed where two (or more) parties are in dispute with each other, with the aim of resolving the difference without recourse to open conflict. Such a procedure may be used to deal with disputes between employers and TRADE UNIONS concerning pay and conditions of employment. Where these matters are the subject of COLLECTIVE BARGAINING within the firm, the procedure will normally form part of the PROCEDURAL AGREEMENT governing relations between management and unions. Where, however, they are dealt with externally (by industry-wide bargaining), the disputes procedure will probably be operated by the EMPLOYERS' ASSOCIATION of which the company is a member. When a dispute arises the company hands it over to the association for resolution. See GRIEVANCE PROCEDURE.