What is industrial action?

Industrial action refers to various measures taken by employees, often organised by trade unions, to protest against working conditions, pay, or other employment-related issues. These actions are typically aimed at putting pressure on employers to meet their demands.  

Common forms of industrial action include: 

• Strikes: Employees stop working entirely for a period of time. 
• Action short of a strike: various forms of action that employees can take without completely stopping work which can include: 

• • Work-to-rule: Employees perform their duties exactly as outlined in their contracts, avoiding any additional tasks or overtime. 

• • Go-slow: Employees deliberately reduce their work pace. 

• • Overtime ban: Employees deliberately refuse to work any overtime hours 

Last reviewed: 18.02.25