What Do I Do If I Encounter a Picket Line?
February 5, 2026
If an FSA member encounters a picket line on the way to perform their duties for BCIT, we ask that you not cross that picket line.
Article 7.9.1 (p. 33) of the FSA–BCIT Collective Agreement states:
“All Employees have the right to refuse to cross a legally established trade union picket line, or a trade union picket line which has been officially recognized by the Union in advance of its erection, and such refusal to work shall not be considered a violation of this Agreement or grounds for disciplinary action or any other penalty.”
Members whose assignments would otherwise require them to work in a location behind a legally established or FSA‑recognized picket line have the right to refuse to cross. Members unable to perform their normal duties for this reason may be assigned alternate duties.
An employee who does not work due to a picket line may not be paid by BCIT. In such cases, the FSA may issue strike pay to impacted members.
If your assignment would otherwise require you to work in a location behind a picket line, we ask that you do the following:
- Advise your manager of the situation and share this post with them.
- Work with your manager and Departmental colleagues to plan alternate work activities.
- If your manager directs you to perform work that is behind a picket line, contact the FSA immediately at 604‑432‑8859, [email protected], or your Member Engagement Officer.
- If you encounter a picket line in the course of your duties, immediately inform your manager that you will not be crossing it and request alternate responsibilities.
- If you have any concerns about your manager’s response, call or email the FSA at 604‑432‑8859 or [email protected].
Members who encounter a picket line outside of their work activities are also asked not to cross it. With our union currently engaged in negotiations, it is important that we demonstrate to the employer, to the government, and to the public that we stand in solidarity with striking workers wherever they may be.