Die determinante van harmonieuse verhoudinge in die werksituasie met spesiale verwysing na 'n aanleg in 'n chemiese fabriek

Abstract

A prerequisite for a happy and productive labour force is positive labour relations. Co-operation between the different groups of workers is necessary for the survival of any company and, in fact, of the country. Hence, determinants must be identified that will improve relations between workers and between the employer and its workers. The study was conducted in a large division of a chemical factory which is the largest of its kind in the world. This division has the highest rate of disciplinary incidents and labour turnover in the factory. A high rate of both absenteeism and accident frequency also occurs in the division.

The workers involved were 202 shift personnel as well as 103 labourers. Data was obtained via questionnaires, interviews and conferences. It was found:- a) the lower level White workers tend to see the Black worker as an X - type worker; b) there is a direct relation between personnel strength and the number of disciplinary incidents as well as the number of company leavers ; c) a major cause for dissatisfaction (as pointed out by leavers ) is working conditions; d) the need to satisfy higher needs (Maslow) is present at all levels of workers; e) the lower level White worker tends to have a negative approach towards the Black worker; f) personnel committees stagnated. The study revealed that:- * supervisors must be trained in labour relations and the handling * of grievances; * record keeping of absenteeism must be introduced; * quality circles and job enrichment should be introduced; * the working conditions in the division must be improved; * the organizational structure of the division must be investigated and optimized; * the supervisors must be motivated to manage and to be less task orientated.