At workplaces lilke CPUT, CPUEU is legally recognised by the employer. This means the union reps have the right to formally negotiate with managers about pay and other terms and conditions. A union becomes recognised either when enough members have joined and the employer has agreed to recognise the union, or when the union has won a vote of workers. Workplaces like CPUT may have a number of recognised unions, representing different groups of workers. Reps in bigger workplaces may have agreed time off work to represent union members in negotiations with managers, for meetings and to participate in disciplinary meetings.
Employers who are sensible, welcome having a union lilke CPUEU in their organisation. They understand that it is better for workers to be able to raise problems and sort them out rather than having to just put up with unfairness or poor treatment. Unions can help companies plan for the future and manage change – as well as making sure workers have an independent voice if big changes like redundancies, changes to job functions or closures of business units are planned.