Open Workplaces

The Government of Canada has begun to move to open office workplace design in some offices across the country. We have members already working in this type of office, and some others whose offices will soon be converted.

Referred to as “GC Workplace,” significant concerns about productivity, noise, ergonomics and sickness must be addressed to ensure the success of these workplace changes.

We are working with your employer to ensure that existing open workplaces are improved and that the design process is improved so that your workplace is a healthy and productive environment. We are using collective bargaining, consultation, and government relations to ensure these concerns are effectively resolved.

As a member or steward you can help too:

  1. Ask for information and for regular updates on open offices within your department.
  2. Host meetings with other members to understand their concerns.
  3. Be an advocate to the employer to ensure GC Workplace is adapted and implemented in a way that meets member needs.
  4. Report back to PIPSC on what your department is doing and problems you are experiencing by emailing openworkplaces@pipsc.ca.

Our digital toolkit is available now to support your discussions with management and other members. If you have any questions or concerns, or to order your toolkit, please contact openworkplaces@pipsc.ca.

 

Latest News

25 August 2020
On August 19, 2020, we sent a letter to Minister Anand demanding a stop to the office conversion process until COVID-related health issues have been eradicated from federal workplaces.
21 May 2019
Earlier this year, Institute members met in Ottawa with Steve Mackinnon, Parliamentary Secretary to Public Services and Procurement Canada (PSPC) Minister Carla Qualtrough as part of the February 5, 2019 PIPSC Lobby Day. He committed the department to consultation with the Institute and other affected bargaining agents on this critical issue.
15 October 2018
As a part of our response to The Government of Canada’s move to open workplace design, we conducted a random survey of members to learn more about their experiences.
10 September 2018
The Government of Canada has begun to move to open office workplace design in some offices across the country. There are PIPSC members already working in this type of office and others whose offices will soon be converted.