What is the term for hiring replacement workers during a strike?

When workers go on strike, employers sometimes hire individuals to take their place and keep operations running. These replacement workers are commonly referred to as "scabs." The term carries a strong negative connotation within labor movements and is used to describe those who cross picket lines and, in the view of striking workers, undermine their collective action and solidarity.

The origin of the term "scab" in this context dates back to the 18th century, with its roots in an older English usage referring to skin diseases or a "mean, low, 'scurvy' fellow." By the early 1800s, laborers began using it to describe workers who refused to join unions or participate in strikes. The metaphor suggests that such individuals are a blemish or a hindrance to the "healing" and progress of the labor force, actively working against the common good of their fellow laborers.

The decision to hire replacement workers is a contentious one during labor disputes. From an employer's perspective, it's a way to mitigate financial losses and maintain productivity during a strike. However, unions generally view the use of replacement workers as a tactic that weakens their bargaining power and prolongs strikes. The legal landscape surrounding replacement workers varies, with some countries and regions having "anti-scab" laws that prohibit or restrict their use, while in other places, it is generally legal for employers to hire them. The long-term impact on workplace morale and relations after a strike can be significant when replacement workers have been employed.