Legal Definitions - industrial union

An industrial union is a type of labor union that represents workers across multiple industries or trades. These unions are typically organized by the type of work that members perform, rather than by the industry in which they work.

For example, the United Auto Workers (UAW) is an industrial union that represents workers in the automotive industry, including those who work in manufacturing, assembly, and maintenance. The International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) is another industrial union that represents workers in the electrical industry, including those who work in construction, maintenance, and repair.

Industrial unions are often formed to give workers more bargaining power with employers. By representing workers across multiple industries, these unions can negotiate for better wages, benefits, and working conditions on a larger scale.