As opposed to the reasons given for possible productivity increases, these policies are not restricted to manufacturing environments. Noted as a practice in both union and non-union shops, typically where piecework is involved. Union leadership routinely touts the supposed superiority of goods, manufactured or constructed, by union members. Unions have in many cases helped to raise production standards. This has been noted especially in construction trades with the elimination of shoddy workmanship done by less reputable firms.
Many examples however expose needlessly high standards.
Bricklayers, plasters, and other similar trade unions lower productivity by insisting on these high standards. Their justification is derived from claiming that such care in necessary to ensure perfect accuracy and soundness product. As Reynolds notes, this claim is often overworked. Thus, a well intentioned ideal is transformed into a hollow excuse to fill union coffers. It is common to hear of horror stories regarding duplication of work.