Egalitarian Provisions Are Rare in Canada and Are Probably Most

Egalitarian provisions are rare in Canada and are probably most often found in organizations which have adopted a socio- technical systems approach.In general,such agreements tend to feature broad,rather general statements of principle rather than detailed delineations of union and management territory.Such provisions suggest the granting of a considerable measure of control to workers and their unions.An example would be the Shell Sarnia preamble stating that the agreement's purpose is to "develop an enabling framework within which an organizational system can be developed and sustained that will ensure an efficient and competitive world- scale Chemical Plant operation and provide meaningful work and job satisfaction for employees." What is perhaps most notable about the Shell Sarnia agreement is what it doesn't contain: a management rights provision,a formal grievance procedure,or specific work rules or job control provisions beyond a stipulation that layoffs will be made in order of reverse seniority.In general,the aim of such agreements is to promote trust and empower workers.