Michigan Nursing Home Administrator (NHA) Practice Exam

Under what legal grounds may an employer take disciplinary action during union activities?

1. If it interferes with operational efficiency

2. If the employee was previously warned

3. If it violates collective bargaining agreement

4. If the employee is on company time

The correct answer is: If the employee is on company time

The rationale for taking disciplinary action based on the premise that the employee is on company time focuses on the implications of workplace policies and the expected conduct of employees during their working hours. Employers have the right to expect their employees to fulfill their job duties during paid work hours. When union activities are conducted during work hours, it may disrupt operational efficiency and productivity, hence justifying potential disciplinary action. In the context of labor laws, while employees have the right to engage in union activities, these rights may be limited by the requirement for them to adhere to company policies regarding work time. If an employee chooses to engage in union activities while on the clock, it could lead to disciplinary measures if it contravenes the employer's policy on maintaining workplace efficiency. The other options may provide grounds for disciplinary action in certain circumstances, but they are not as direct in establishing a clear employer right to discipline based on time management and operational priorities as the situation where an employee participates in union activities during working hours.