Protection against unfair discrimination
Discrimination means to make a choice. The discrimination we are concerned here is when it is based on unfair reasons. For example: unfair discrimination because they are of the opposite sex, disabled in some way, etc.
Health and safety at work
In most countries, there are now laws which make sure that all employers:
- protect workers from dangerous machinery
- provide safety equipment and clothing
- maintain reasonable workplace temperatures
- provide hygienic conditions and washing facilities
Workers cost a great deal to recruit and train. It is therefore worthwhile keeping them safe and healthy. Such workers are likely to be better motivated, work more efficiently and stay with the firm for a longer period of time.
Protection against unfair dismissal
The following examples of dismissal are unfair:
- for joining a trade union
- for being pregnant
- when no warnings are given before dismissal
Wage protection
Workers have a right to be paid for work they do for employers. There should be a written agreement between worker and employer - the contract of employment - that will contain:
- hours of work
- wage rate to be paid
- how frequently wages will be paid
There are businesses which pay the employees very low wages (which are impossible to live with). Therefore, the government introduces a legal minimum wage. A minimum wage makes it illegal for an employer to pay an hourly rate below the minimum set.
- Prevent strong employers from exploiting unskilled workers.
- As many unskilled workers will receive higher wages, it encourages employers to train them to make sure they are more productive.
- Low-paid workers will earn more and will afford to spend more.
- Increases business costs which will force them to increase prices.
- Unemployment will rise, as some employers can’t afford to pay these wages and therefore makes some workers redundant.
Consumer Protection legislations
Most of the countries have consumer protection laws aimed at making sure that businesses act fairly towards their consumers. A few examples are:
- Weight and Measures Act: goods sold should not be underweight. Standard weighting equipments should be used to measure goods.
- Trade Description Act: deliberately giving misleading impression about the product is illegal.
- Consumer Credit Act: According to this act consumers should be given a copy of the credit agreement and should be aware of the interest rates, length of loan while taking a loan.
- Sale of Goods Act: It is illegal to sell products with serious flaws or problems and goods sold should conform to the description provided.
