Die werksetiek van werknemers binne 'n chemiese nywerheid

Abstract

In the study of work ethic, the individual is considered in relation to colleagues, work, the organisation and the environment. All the factors present in this relationship influence work ethic. Bearing in mind South Africa's need for growth, and the connection between a strong work ethic and economic prospects, it is deemed advisable that an organisation should know more about the experience of work ethic, as well as how such knowledge could be appropriated to the advantage of the environment, the organisation and the individual. The general aim of this research was to determine the work ethic of employees within a business unit of a chemical organisation. What work ethic actually encompasses was gained from a literature study. The most important factors influencing work ethic were analysed. A qualitative research design based on the phenomenological approach was used. A directed sample of 14 employees was made. Interviews were used to determine the employees' experience of work ethic. Content analysis was done to analyse the data and to quantify and interpret research findings. The results of the empirical investigation showed that work ethic is a multidimensional concept that is situational contextualised. Work was described as an outcomes-orientated activity that occurs within a specified time schedule and is aimed at adding value. It was found that the main theme of work ethic was the moral processes that occurred in the relationship between the worker and the organisation. In the expression of work ethic, the need for a close connection to be made with an organisation's ethical practice of business principles was important.

The employees identified cultural, individual and organisational factors that influenced the experience of work ethic. Group dynamics also played a role in this regard.