Which of the following contains two examples of overt industrial action? (A) Lockouts and sabotage (B) Pickets and absenteeism (C) Staff turnover and strikes (D) Overtime bans and work-to-rule - HSC - SSCE Business Studies - Question 2 - 2009 - Paper 1

To determine which option contains two examples of overt industrial action, we need to define what overt industrial action is. Overt industrial action refers to publicly visible actions taken by workers to express their dissatisfaction, often aimed at changing conditions of work.

• Option (A): Lockouts and sabotage

  • Lockouts are a form of overt action where employers prevent workers from entering the workplace. Sabotage, on the other hand, can be seen as covert. This option is partially correct.

• Option (B): Pickets and absenteeism

  • Picketing is a clear example of overt action as it is a public demonstration by workers usually aimed at influencing conditions. Absenteeism, however, can be less overt as it can occur without any demonstration.

• Option (C): Staff turnover and strikes

  • Staff turnover refers to the rate at which employees leave a workforce and is not an example of overt action. Strikes are a definitive example of overt industrial action, and thus this option is partially correct.

• Option (D): Overtime bans and work-to-rule

  • Both of these actions are really forms of overt industrial action. Overtime bans publicly demonstrate worker dissatisfaction by refusing to work beyond regular hours, while work-to-rule is a method where employees follow all rules and regulations strictly, which can slow down operations.

Therefore, the correct answer is (D) Overtime bans and work-to-rule, as both described actions are clear, overt demonstrations of industrial action.