Final answer:
The answer addresses workplace rules against 'horseplay' or 'gambling' and explains that these rules can be vaguer than management intended and are subject to interpretation by arbitrators, who do not always uniformly uphold such rules.
The correct option is a. Vaguer than management intended, even though it seems clear what is meant by these terms.
Step-by-step explanation:
The question that the student asked pertains to the interpretation and enforcement of workplace rules, specifically those that prohibit activities such as 'horseplay' and 'gambling.' When dealing with such rules, arbitrators can find them less clear than management intended; what seems clear and distinct may still be interpreted in various ways due to their subjective nature. Moreover, the seriousness with which arbitrators treat infractions can vary depending on context and perceived severity.
While it may seem like the terms 'horseplay' or 'gambling' convey a clear meaning, often these rules are vaguer than management intended. This ambiguity can lead to different interpretations and the necessity for arbitrators to fill in the gaps, which might result in various consequences or disciplinary actions not being uniformly upheld. Notably, they are not always upheld by arbitrators when it comes to disciplining those who break these rules. Additionally, the degree of seriousness with which such rules are treated can vary substantially.
Therefore, the correct option that describes rules prohibiting 'horseplay' or 'gambling' would be option (a): Vaguer than management intended, even though it seems clear what is meant by these terms.