What does the term "hot-cargo" signify in labor agreements?

The term "hot-cargo" signifies a prohibition on handling products from certain employers, typically those that are perceived as unfair or operating under conditions that violate labor standards or practices. In labor agreements, "hot-cargo" clauses allow union members to refuse to handle goods from companies that do not adhere to agreed-upon labor practices or that have disputes with the union. This function serves as a form of solidarity among workers, aiming to protect their rights and interests by exerting economic pressure on employers who do not comply with union regulations or who are engaged in unfair labor practices.

The essence of a "hot-cargo" clause is to empower workers by giving them a collective voice in what goods they can morally and ethically support through their labor. It plays a significant role in labor negotiations and reflects union strategies to advocate for better working conditions and labor rights. This understanding highlights the critical relationship between labor agreements and the ethical responsibilities of employers, stressing the importance of solidarity within the labor movement.