Employment Relations Act 1999

Overview

The Employment Relations Act 1999 was enacted to enhance the protection of workers' rights in the UK. It introduced significant reforms in trade union recognition, individual employment rights, and family-related leave entitlements. The Act built on previous legislation such as the Trade Union and Labour Relations (Consolidation) Act 1992 and the Employment Rights Act 1996. This Act covers a broad range of employment matters including:

• Legal recognition of trade unions for collective bargaining.
• Protection against blacklisting of union members.
• New rights for employees concerning maternity, parental leave, and time off for dependants.
• The right to be accompanied at disciplinary and grievance hearings.
• Enhanced rights for part-time workers and those on fixed-term contracts.
• Powers for ACAS and the Certification Officer were also strengthened.

Benefits of compliance:

• Ensures legal compliance and avoids litigation.
• Promotes fair and consistent treatment of employees.
• Enhances workplace morale and productivity.
• Protects the organisation’s public image.
• Reduces risk of employment tribunal claims.