Collective agreement
what it is, what it can give you, and how to check your rights
Collective agreement
What it is:
An agreement between employees (union) and employer regulating terms beyond the Labor Code — bonuses, leave, guarantees, social package.
Who is covered:
All company employees, not only union members. If a collective agreement exists — it applies to you automatically.
What to look for:
Bonuses (seniority, intensity, night shifts), extra leave, material aid, health allowance, layoff guarantees, indexation.
vs employment contract:
The employment contract is individual (your pay and role). The collective one sets common rules for everyone.
Getting the text:
The employer must show it — ask HR/union in writing. Refusal violates Labor Code art. 16.
If none exists:
Employees can initiate talks via a union or authorized rep — the employer cannot refuse to negotiate.
Minimum guarantees:
Collective terms cannot undercut Labor Code minimums — worsening clauses are automatically void.
Practical value:
Often real money: 10–30% seniority bonus, 1–2 salaries/year material aid, 4–7 extra leave days — worth knowing.