Labor Relations

Union Activity During Working Hours

On May 6, 2026 we released details on Union Activity During Working Hours and in Work Spaces. Since then, more questions have arisen regarding union-related activities in the workplace, that we would like to provide the following reminders and expectations.

UA is committed to respecting employees' rights to engage in protected union activity under Alaska's Public Employment Relations Act (PERA) while also ensuring that University operations, services, and educational activities continue without disruption. Here are some important reminders about organizing activity during work hours and in workspaces.

Working Time vs. Non-Working Time

Employees have the right to engage in protected union activity; however, the University also has the right to expect employees to perform their assigned job duties during working time.

As a general guideline:

  • Working time is time when employees are expected to be performing their assigned duties.

    • Union solicitation and other union-related activities may be restricted during working time.

  • Non-working time includes meal periods, rest breaks, and time before or after scheduled shifts.

    • Union-related discussions and solicitation are generally permissible during non-working time, provided they do not disrupt operations and all employees involved are also on non-working time.

Union Materials and Workspaces

The distribution of union materials is generally not permitted in areas where University business is actively conducted, but it is generally allowed in non-work areas.

Examples of work areas include:

  • Offices, cubicles, and workstations

  • Classrooms and laboratories while in use

  • Reception areas and service counters

  • Workrooms where employees are actively performing duties

Examples of non-work areas include:

  • Break rooms

  • Employee lounges

  • Coffee and water cooler areas

  • Parking lots

  • Hallways and common areas that do not interfere with work activities

Expectations for Employees

To ensure compliance with University expectations and applicable labor laws:

  • Employees should perform their assigned responsibilities during scheduled work time.

  • Union-related conversations, solicitation, and distribution of materials should occur during non-working time and in appropriate non-work areas.

  • Employees should avoid engaging coworkers in union business while those coworkers are actively working.

  • Union activities, including direct engagements and the distribution of union materials, may not disrupt University operations, services, instruction, research, or other institutional activities.

  • University resources, including University IT resources and systems, may not be used in the production or distribution of union materials or to engage in union activities.

  • Employees should remain respectful of differing viewpoints and workplace responsibilities.

Commitment to Neutrality and Respect

The University remains committed to maintaining a workplace where employees can exercise their lawful rights while ensuring that institutional operations continue effectively. Any workplace restrictions concerning solicitation or distribution of materials must be applied consistently and neutrally, without regard to union affiliation or viewpoint. Supervisors are expected to remain neutral and avoid interference, retaliation, or conduct that could be perceived as discouraging protected activity.

We appreciate your cooperation in balancing workplace responsibilities with your rights and participation as represented employees.

Questions regarding these expectations may be directed to Human Resources Labor Relations.

Thank you for your continued professionalism and commitment to the University of Alaska.

 

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