Title: Calling for Views on the Draft Code of Practice for Trade Unions’ Access to Workplaces

We are inviting submissions on a draft code of practice that outlines the new legal framework governing trade unions’ access to workplaces. This is an important step in ensuring that the rights and responsibilities of both employers and unions are clear, proportionate, and aligned with contemporary work environments.

What the draft code aims to achieve
– Clarity and consistency: The code provides clear guidance on when and where trade unions can access workplaces, what activities are permissible, and how such access should be coordinated to minimise disruption.
– Proportionality and safety: It emphasises proportionality in union activities, taking into account health, safety, security, and operational requirements.
– Respect for employers’ operational needs: The framework recognises the essential functions of a workplace and seeks to balance employees’ rights to representation with the organisation’s obligations to operate efficiently.
– Fair procedure: It sets out the processes for notification, scheduling, and, where relevant, consultation to ensure that access is orderly and cooperative.
– Inclusivity and modern workplaces: The code considers diverse working arrangements, including remote or hybrid models, agency staff, and multi-site operations, ensuring that access provisions are applicable and practical across contexts.

What we are seeking from stakeholders
– Practical insights: We want views on how the draft code would work in real workplaces, including examples of where the current proposals would be effective or challenging.
– Clarity and language: Feedback on whether the language is clear, precise, and accessible to employers, trade unions, and employees.
– Operational impact: Input on potential administrative or logistical burdens, and suggestions for streamlining processes without compromising safety or business continuity.
– Safeguards and balance: Consideration of safeguards to prevent abuse of access rights, protect sensitive information, and address potential conflicts at the local level.
– Alternatives and additions: Any additional measures, supportive resources, or case studies that could strengthen the code and its practical application.

How to participate
– Submissions should be provided by [deadline date] and can be sent via [submission method: email/online portal/post]. Please include a reference to “Draft Code of Practice – Trade Unions’ Access to Workplaces” in all correspondence.
– Submissions may be made on behalf of organisations or as individuals. If possible, please indicate your role and the sector in which you work, as well as the context in which you foresee applying the code.
– We welcome a range of formats, including short responses, structured comments, or longer position papers. Where relevant, please attach anonymised examples or anonymised case studies to illustrate points.

What happens next
– All submissions will be reviewed by a steering group composed of representatives from employers, trade unions, and relevant regulatory or advisory bodies.
– We will publish a summary of the feedback received and outline any revisions or next steps. Where appropriate, follow-up consultations or public engagement events may be organised to discuss specific themes in more depth.
– The final code of practice will be published with an accompanying impact assessment, outlining how it supports effective workforce representation while maintaining operational integrity.

Key considerations for the draft
– Timing and notice: How far in advance should access be arranged, and what information should be provided to minimise disruption?
– Scope of access: Which locations, activities, and categories of staff should be covered, including contractors and agency workers?
– Safeguarding and privacy: How will the code protect sensitive information and ensure appropriate handling of employee data?
– Dispute resolution: What processes should be in place to address disagreements between employers and unions regarding access?
– Accessibility and equality: How can the code promote equitable access across different sites, shifts, and roles?

We recognise that workplaces vary considerably, and a one-size-fits-all approach may not be appropriate. The goal of the draft code is to offer a robust, practical framework that supports lawful and responsible union access while safeguarding business operations and workplace safety.

If you have thoughts, experiences, or recommendations, we encourage you to share them. Your input will help shape a code of practice that is fit for purpose, adaptable to diverse workplaces, and reflective of the needs of employees, unions, and employers alike.

July 10, 2026 at 12:23PM
使工作获得回报：关于工会进入工作场所权的新法律框架草拟行为准则

我们正在征求对关于工会进入工作场所的新法律框架的草拟行为准则的意见。

阅读更多中文内容： 就新劳资框架下工会进入工作场所的行为准则草案征求意见（Draft）