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QUESTION 6: BUSINESS ROLES (HUMAN RIGHTS, INCLUSIVITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES) Businesses are required to respect the economic rights and safety of their employees in the workplace - NSC Business Studies - Question 6 - 2020 - Paper 2
Question 6
QUESTION 6: BUSINESS ROLES (HUMAN RIGHTS, INCLUSIVITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES) Businesses are required to respect the economic rights and safety of their employees... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:QUESTION 6: BUSINESS ROLES (HUMAN RIGHTS, INCLUSIVITY AND ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES) Businesses are required to respect the economic rights and safety of their employees in the workplace - NSC Business Studies - Question 6 - 2020 - Paper 2
Step 1
Outline the economic rights of employees in the workplace.
Answer
Economic rights are fundamental rights outlined in the Bill of Rights that must be respected in the workplace. These rights include:
- Free from Forced Labour: Employees should not be compelled to work against their will.
- Right to a Safe Work Environment: Employees have the right to work in conditions that do not threaten their health or safety.
- Fair Wages and Equal Pay: Employees are entitled to fair compensation for their labor, commensurate with their duties and responsibilities, without discrimination.
- Fair Labor Practices: Employees should experience fair treatment regarding work hours, conditions, and treatment.
- Right to Join and Form Trade Unions: Employees have the right to form or join labor unions that represent their interests.
- Right to Strike: Employees may participate in lawful strikes as a form of protest if their rights are violated.
Step 2
Explain the roles of the health and safety representatives in protecting the workplace environment.
Answer
Health and safety representatives play a crucial role in safeguarding workplace environments by:
- Ensuring Safety Equipment Availability: They ensure that all necessary protective clothing and equipment are provided to employees.
- Identifying Dangers: Representatives are responsible for identifying potential hazards within the workplace.
- Promoting Safety Training: They work to promote safety training so employees recognize potential dangers and know how to act proactively.
- Monitoring Safety Measures: Continuous evaluation of health and safety measures taken by the management is a critical responsibility for representatives.
- Investigating Complaints: Health and safety representatives collaborate with employers to address accidents or complaints about workplace safety.
Step 3
Discuss the benefits of diversity in the workplace.
Answer
Diversity in the workplace offers numerous benefits, such as:
- Enhanced Problem-Solving: A diverse workforce brings varied perspectives and experiences that can enhance creativity and problem-solving capabilities.
- Increased Innovation: Different backgrounds foster innovative thinking, helping businesses to develop new ideas and services.
- Improved Customer Relations: Embracing diversity allows businesses to better understand and serve a wider customer base, improving customer satisfaction.
- Attracting Talent: Companies known for diversity are more attractive to potential employees, facilitating talent acquisition.
- Better Decision Making: Diverse teams tend to make better decisions, as they consider multiple viewpoints and options.
Step 4
Recommend ways in which businesses could deal with the following diversity issues in the workplace: Gender
Answer
To address gender diversity issues, businesses can:
- Ensure Equal Opportunities: Create equal opportunities for men and women in hiring, promotions, and leadership roles.
- Implement Diversity Training: Conduct training programs that educate employees on gender biases and promote an inclusive culture.
- Support Work-Life Balance: Offer flexible work arrangements that accommodate the needs of both male and female employees.
- Establish a Zero-Tolerance Policy: Create and enforce policies against discrimination and harassment in the workplace.
Step 5
Recommend ways in which businesses could deal with the following diversity issues in the workplace: Disability
Answer
To address disability diversity issues, businesses can:
- Provide Accommodation: Ensure the workplace is accessible, including providing necessary facilities and resources like ramps and adaptive technology.
- Inclusive Policies: Develop inclusive policies that accommodate individuals with different abilities and needs.
- Sensitivity Training: Educate staff on disability awareness to foster an inclusive culture.
- Employment Opportunities: Actively seek to employ individuals with disabilities and provide support for their career development.