In the context of labor relations, a lockout refers to the employer’s refusal to allow workers to enter the workplace, often as a tactic used during a labor dispute or contract negotiation. This form of industrial action is typically the employer's response to a workers’ strike or the breakdown of negotiations between management and a labor union. Essentially, a lockout is the opposite of a strike—while a strike occurs when workers refuse to work, a lockout occurs when the employer denies workers access to their jobs.

    The purpose of a lockout is usually to force workers or unions to accept the employer’s terms in the negotiation process. Lockouts are more common in industries where labor unions are particularly powerful, such as manufacturing, transportation, and entertainment. For example, in professional sports leagues like the NFL and the NBA, lockouts have occurred when collective bargaining agreements (CBAs) fail, leading to the suspension or cancellation of entire seasons. During a lockout, workers are typically without pay, and production or services come to a halt. This drastic step can have severe economic consequences for both employees and employers, as it often damages relationships and hurts productivity.