The US National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) has found that Apple’s workplace policies are violating US labour law by unlawfully discouraging employees from discussing working conditions. An agency official confirmed that the NLRB will issue a complaint against the company unless they settle first. The NLRB is responsible for investigating charges filed by workers and unions and has the power to strike down workplace policies that violate the law.
Apple has not responded to the request for comment regarding the NLRB’s findings. However, the company has previously stated that it takes worker complaints seriously and thoroughly investigates them. The former senior engineering manager at Apple, Ashley Gjovik, filed complaints against the company in 2021.
Gjovik’s complaints focus on Apple’s policies, including those relating to confidentiality and surveillance, which she claims deter employees from discussing issues such as pay equity and discrimination. She also cited an email from Apple CEO Tim Cook, in which he allegedly sought to stop workers from speaking to the press. This is not uncommon among tech companies, as strict confidentiality policies are in place to protect trade secrets.
It is important to note that US labor law prohibits workplace policies that could discourage workers from improving working conditions. Apple is facing several pending NLRB complaints, including one claiming that the company unlawfully required workers at an Atlanta retail store to attend anti-union meetings. The company denies any wrongdoing.
Gjovik has expressed hope that the NLRB’s actions will encourage more workers to speak up and organize. An NLRB spokeswoman did not respond to a request for comment. In conclusion, the NLRB’s findings regarding Apple’s workplace policies highlight the importance of protecting workers’ rights to discuss working conditions and improve their workplace environment.
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