Explain how and why dual gates are used on a project.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Dual gates may be necessary on projects using both union and nonunion workers. These are used to separate potential union and nonunion workforces, pursuant to National Labor Relations Board procedures, to avoid secondary boycotts by one group over another nonparticipating firm. Dual gates apply to admission of the general contractor's craftspeople as well as subcontractors' employees and the delivery of materials to the project. Merit shop and nonunion construction firms will plan into the job the use of dual gates, which includes security fencing, location of entrances, parking, deliveries, job trailer locations, and other pertinent site layout. One gate is set up for the entrance and exit of union firms and employees, the other for nonunion firms and its employees. Laws and rules governing picketing of a project require that picketing cannot occur at the gate reserved for the neutral employer, the nonunion firms not involved in the labor dispute. Picketing can target only the specific or primary firm engaged in the labor dispute. The use of dual gates should be discussed with all contractors and subcontractors at the beginning of the project, or as subcontractors move onto the site. Gates can be adjacent to each other, but by placing them apart, potential picketing conflicts are eliminated.