Search results
1 – 10 of over 1000Prakash Shrestha, Dilip Parajuli and Bibek Raj Adhikari
This paper aims to examine the current quality of work-life (QWL) situation and the effectiveness of labor laws for promoting QWL in the context of Nepalese workplaces.
Abstract
Purpose
This paper aims to examine the current quality of work-life (QWL) situation and the effectiveness of labor laws for promoting QWL in the context of Nepalese workplaces.
Design/methodology/approach
It uses a descriptive-interpretative-qualitative approach to analyze the responses. Information is gathered through discussions with 85 higher- and middle-level managers of large and medium-sized organizations.
Findings
The majority of Nepalese organizations accept safe and healthy working conditions, social relevance of work-life, social integration in the work organization, and work and total life space as the key aspects of QWL. They have become even more critical as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they face challenges in providing employees with opportunities for continued growth and security, immediate opportunity to use and develop human capacities, adequate and fair compensation and constitutionalism in the work organization. QWL-related provisions in Labour Act, 2017, play a vital role in promoting the QWL situation. The QWL programs offer many benefits to employees’ private and working lives. The lack of such programs would undoubtedly have negative consequences for Nepalese companies. Compliance with labor laws will promote a better QWL situation at Nepalese workplaces.
Research limitations/implications
Only managerial perspectives are considered for examining the current situation of QWL and the effectiveness of QWL-related provisions of the Labour Act, 2017. It excludes the views of union leaders.
Practical implications
This paper indicates that labor laws’ QWL-related provisions are effective. It also provides several policy measures for promoting a better QWL in Nepalese workplaces.
Originality/value
This study presents QWL-related legal provisions and the actual situation at the workplaces of Nepal. It also presents the key aspects of QWL in the context of Nepal.
Details
Keywords
Shamim Mohammad, Shivaraj Huchhanavar, Hifzur Rahman and Tariq Sultan Pasha
The extant literature underlines the inadequacies of legal and policy frameworks addressing the safety and health concerns of sandstone mineworkers in India. Notably, Rajasthan, a…
Abstract
Purpose
The extant literature underlines the inadequacies of legal and policy frameworks addressing the safety and health concerns of sandstone mineworkers in India. Notably, Rajasthan, a state renowned for its extractive industries, mirrors these concerns. Against this backdrop, this paper aims to critically evaluate the relevant legal and policy landscape, with an emphasis on the recent central statute: the Occupational Safety, Health and Working Conditions Code of 2020 (OSHWCC). Given that the Code subsumes the key legislation pertaining to the safety and health of mineworkers, an in-depth critical analysis is essential to forge suitable policy interventions to address continued gross violations of human rights.
Design/methodology/approach
The critical analysis of legal and policy frameworks on silicosis in sandstone mineworkers is based on a comprehensive reading of existing literature. The literature includes relevant laws, case law, reports of the Rajasthan State Human Rights Commission and National Human Rights Commission, publicly available data and key scholarly contributions in the field.
Findings
Although the OSHWCC has made some changes to the existing regulatory architecture of mines in India, it has failed to safeguard the safety and health of mineworkers. Notably, the vast majority of mines in India – constituting approximately 90%, which are informal, seasonal and small-scale – remain beyond the jurisdiction of this Code. In Rajasthan, there are specific policies on silicosis, but these policies are poorly implemented. There is a serious shortage of doctors to diagnose silicosis cases, leading to under-diagnosis. The compensation for silicosis victims is insufficient; the distribution mechanism is complex and often delayed.
Research limitations/implications
The central and many state governments have not established the regulatory institutions envisaged under the OSHWCC 2020; therefore, the working of the regulatory institutions could not be critically examined.
Originality/value
The paper critically evaluates laws and policies pertaining to silicosis in sandstone mineworkers, with a special emphasis on the state of Rajasthan. It offers a comprehensive critique of the OSHWCC of 2020, which has not received much attention from previous studies.
Details
Keywords
Danni Wang and Catherine Cheung
This study aims to present the evolution of decent work studies. Findings point to several directions for future research efforts, including conceptualizing decent work and the…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to present the evolution of decent work studies. Findings point to several directions for future research efforts, including conceptualizing decent work and the pandemic’s associated impact. Results will help to guide government authorities to promote decent work by delivering fair income, increasing the stability and security of employment and monitoring employees’ work-life balance.
Design/methodology/approach
This review consists of knowledge mapping based on keywords from multidisciplinary studies on decent work and the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analyses (PRISMA) model on tourism and hospitality studies. First, keyword knowledge mapping was conducted in VOSviewer, resulting in 667 papers. Then, a PRISMA model generated a systematic review of the literature in tourism and hospitality based on 41 papers.
Findings
Knowledge mapping revealed six thematic clusters, namely, Labor Rights and Gender Equality, Sustainability and Health, Psychology of Working Theory, Conceptualization of Decent Work, Marginalized Groups and Unemployment and Job Quality. According to the PRISMA model, the conceptual evolution of decent work in tourism and hospitality can be divided into three stages: initial (1999–2008), emerging (2009–2018) and development (2019–present).
Research limitations/implications
Based on the findings, further interdisciplinary research into decent work is recommended. Scholars in the tourism and hospitality sector can incorporate other fields of decent work, such as psychology, to broaden the lens of studies to discover the role of meaning and purpose in the workplace and to promote the concept to its fullest extent. Furthermore, employees’ assessments of decent work might help businesses improve human resources management via corporate social responsibility measures.
Originality/value
To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first systematic review of decent work in tourism and hospitality. It shows that this notion is in its infancy, as most studies on the topic thus far have been empirical and descriptive. Nonetheless, most findings contribute to knowledge and practice by clarifying industry employment conditions.
Details
Keywords
Frank Ato Ghansah and Weisheng Lu
While the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the construction industry, it is still unclear from prior studies about adequately positioning the quality assurance (QA) for the…
Abstract
Purpose
While the COVID-19 pandemic has impacted the construction industry, it is still unclear from prior studies about adequately positioning the quality assurance (QA) for the post-pandemic era and future pandemics, especially cross-border construction logistics and supply chain (Cb-CLSC). Thus, this study aims to develop a managerial framework to position the QA of Cb-CLSC during pandemics and post-pandemics by taking lessons from how COVID-19 has impacted the existing QA systems and has been managed successfully.
Design/methodology/approach
This is achieved pragmatically through an embedded mixed-method design involving a literature review, survey and interview from experts within the Hong Kong SAR–Mainland China links, typically known as the world’s factory. The design is further integrated with the partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) approach.
Findings
The study revealed 10 critical managerial practices (MPs) to position the QA to be adequate for the post-pandemic and during future pandemics, with the top three including “strict observance of government regulations (MP1)”, “planning ahead the period of quality assurance with the quarantine days in host countries (MP6)” and “modification of contract to cater for uncertainties (MP4)”. This attained a relatively good percentage agreement of 53% between the industry and academia. However, the top four MPs regarded as very effective include “implementing digital collaborative inspections with subcontractors and trades (MP8)”, “implementing a digital centralized document and issue management system (MP7)”, “strict observance to government regulations, including vaccination of workers, social distancing, use of prescribed nose masks, etc. (MP1)” and “planning ahead the period of quality assurance with the quarantine days in host countries (MP6)”. Two underlying components of the MPs were revealed as policy-process (PP)-related practices and people-technology-process (PTP)-related practices, and these can be modelled into a managerial framework capable of effectively positioning the QA to be adequate during pandemics through to the post-pandemic era.
Practical implications
The findings of this study depicted significant theoretical and practical contributions to the proactive management of QA activities during pandemics through to the post-pandemic era. It could empower organisations to pay attention to smartly and innovatively balancing people, processes, pandemic policy and technology to inform decisions to effectively position the QA for the post-pandemic era and survive the risks of future pandemics.
Originality/value
The study contributes to the body of knowledge in that it develops a managerial framework to position the QA of Cb-CLSC during pandemics and post-pandemics by taking lessons from how COVID-19 has impacted the existing QA systems and has been managed successfully. It is original research with invaluable primary data in the form of surveys and interviews from experts within the Hong Kong SAR–Mainland China links, typically known as the world’s factory.
Details
Keywords
Manpreet Kailay, Kamalpreet Kaur Paposa and Priyanka Chhibber
The present study was designed to explore the major challenges being faced by the Indian nurses' pre-post pandemic period affecting their well-being (WB) and identify factors that…
Abstract
Purpose
The present study was designed to explore the major challenges being faced by the Indian nurses' pre-post pandemic period affecting their well-being (WB) and identify factors that motivated them to perform their service wholeheartedly during the pandemic. The study also tries to bridge the gap in the study area by providing various ways that can help maintain the WB of health care professionals.
Design/methodology/approach
A descriptive exploratory qualitative design involving semi-structured interviews was conducted during December–January 2021 with 30 nurses from hospitals in Punjab Qualitative and thematic data analysis technique were adopted. In addition, a literature review was also conducted to study the various factors that affect the WB of health care professionals.
Findings
There are various themes and subthemes that were identified by the health care professionals, such as (1) psychological WB, (2) social WB and (3) workplace WB and (4) key motivators. This research work has identified various managerial implications that can play a huge rolein strengthening the healthcare sector of the entire world economy, paving the way toward the better WB of healthcare professionals (HCPs).
Originality/value
Firstly, it is probably the only study that is performed on nursing staff to evaluate their personal experiences during crucial times. It has successfully compared the factors affecting WB pre- and post-pandemic, leading to the emergence of many new factors that have originated due to the pandemic and are the cause of the poor WB of HCPs (Figures 2, 4). Secondly, it is the only study that targeted only those nurses who have provided their services in both scenarios. Finally, the study has been a pioneer in identifying the importance of maintaining the WB of HCPs at hospitals.
Details
Keywords
Thi Ngan Pham, Minh Tu Tran Hoang, Yen Ngan Nguyen Tran and Binh An Nguyen Phan
This study aims to comprehensively assess how digital maturity degree (DMD) impacts sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) performance through the mediating role of SSCM…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to comprehensively assess how digital maturity degree (DMD) impacts sustainable supply chain management (SSCM) performance through the mediating role of SSCM practices in businesses in Vietnam.
Design/methodology/approach
The hypotheses were performed using partial least square-structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) with data collected from a survey of over 234 managers having responsibility in the supply chain field in Vietnam. Qualitative data were collected through semistructured interviews with 6 experts to deepen understanding of the relationship between DMD and SSCM.
Findings
The results show the mix-results in the relationship between SSCM practices and SSCM performance dimensions while DMD strongly impacts SSCM practices. Also, this study finds the mediating role of SSCM practices on the relationship between DMD and SSCM performance.
Originality/value
This is the first study to investigate the role of DMD on SSCM practices and SSCM performance, using empirical evidence. Moreover, the authors integrate both qualitative and quantitative for understanding complex SSCM phenomena. The present study also helps businesses improve their SSCM performance by leveraging SSCM practices and developing their digital technologies in the long-term view.
Details
Keywords
Ibrahim S. Abotaleb, Yasmin Elhakim, Mohamed El Rifaee, Sahar Bader, Osama Hosny, Ahmed Abodonya, Salma Ibrahim, Mohamed Sherif, Abdelrahman Sorour and Mennatallah Soliman
The objective of this research is to propose an immersive framework that integrates virtual reality (VR) technology with directives international safety training certification…
Abstract
Purpose
The objective of this research is to propose an immersive framework that integrates virtual reality (VR) technology with directives international safety training certification bodies to enhance construction safety training, which eventually leads to safer construction sites.
Design/methodology/approach
The adopted methodology combines expert insights and experimentation to maximize the effectiveness of construction safety training. The first step was identifying key considerations for VR models such as motion sickness prevention and adult learning theories. The second step was developing a game-like VR model for safety training, with multiple hazards and scenarios based on the considerations of the previous step. After that, safety experts evaluated the model and provided valuable feedback on its alignment with international safety training practices. Finally, the developed model is tested by senior students, where the testing format followed the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH) working safely exam structure.
Findings
An advanced immersive VR safety training model was developed based on extensive lessons learned from the literature, previous work and psychology-informed adult learning theories. Model testing – through focus groups and hands-on experimentation – demonstrated significant benefit of VR in upgrading and complementing traditional training methods.
Originality/value
The findings presented in this paper make a significant contribution to the field of safety training within the construction industry and the broader context of immersive learning experiences. It also fosters further exploration into immersive learning experiences across educational and professional contexts.
Details
Keywords
Abraham Ansong, Sharif Shani Amadu and Moses Ahomka Yeboah
This study aims to examine the mediation effect of safety climate (SC) on the relationship between ethical leadership and employee health and safety in the oil and gas downstream…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to examine the mediation effect of safety climate (SC) on the relationship between ethical leadership and employee health and safety in the oil and gas downstream sector in Ghana.
Design/methodology/approach
This study used a quantitative approach (survey) to collect data from 215 pump attendants at the fuel stations in the Accra Metropolis. The authors used PLS structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) to test the research hypotheses in this study.
Findings
The results show that leaders’ adherence to ethical practices had a significant and positive effect on both their employees’ health and safety and SC in the workplace. Furthermore, the ability of leaders to use ethical practices to achieve a healthy and safe work environment was also contingent on the presence of a safe work climate.
Practical implications
This study highlights the need for leaders to pay specific attention to adhering to ethical rules and regulations and also promoting a safe climate in the workplace to guarantee the health and safety of employees.
Originality/value
This study presents a novel contribution to the literature by empirically demonstrating the contingency importance of SC in the quest of leaders leveraging ethical practices to promote the health and safety of employees in the workplace, which has not been discussed by previous studies.
Details
Keywords
Dorine Maurice Mattar, Joy Haddad and Celine Nammour
This study aims to assess the effect of job insecurity, customer incivility and work–life imbalance on Lebanese bank employee workplace well-being (EWW), while investigating the…
Abstract
Purpose
This study aims to assess the effect of job insecurity, customer incivility and work–life imbalance on Lebanese bank employee workplace well-being (EWW), while investigating the moderating role that positive and negative affect might have.
Design/methodology/approach
Quantitative data was collected from 202 respondents and analyzed using structural equation modeling system through IBM SPSS and AMOS.
Findings
Results revealed that each of the independent variables has a negative, statistically significant effect on Lebanese bank EWW. The positive affect and the negative one are shown to have a moderating effect that lessens and boosts, respectively, these negative effects.
Theoretical implications
The study adds to the literature on EWW while highlighting the high-power distance and collectivist society that the research took place in.
Research limitations/implications
Limitations include the sample size that was hoped to be larger, in addition to the self-reporting issue and what it entails in the data collection process.
Practical implications
The study has many practical implications, including the validation of a questionnaire in a developing Arab country, hence providing a reliable tool for researchers. HR specialists should lean toward applicants with positive affect, ensuring that their workplace is occupied by members with enhanced resilience. Furthermore, employers should support their employees’ professional growth, thus, boosting their employability during turmoil and consequently making them less vulnerable in times of economic recession.
Originality/value
The study’s unique context, depicted in the harsh economic and financial crisis, makes the findings on EWW of a high value.
Details
Keywords
Julia Aubouin-Bonnaventure, Séverine Chevalier, Fadi-Joseph Lahiani and Evelyne Fouquereau
The post-COVID-19 era is characterised in the professional field by a deterioration in the psychological health of employees and by “The Great Resignation”. These phenomena…
Abstract
Purpose
The post-COVID-19 era is characterised in the professional field by a deterioration in the psychological health of employees and by “The Great Resignation”. These phenomena require managers to rethink both organisational and HR strategies to protect their workers’ health, to retain them in their job and, in fine, to ensure the sustainability of the organisation. However, studies have demonstrated that high performance work systems (HPWS), which are currently the dominant approach in human resource management, are related to an intensification of work and consequently a deterioration of employees’ health (conflicting outcomes perspective). At the same time, workers’ well-being has been shown to be associated with numerous organisational outcomes, such as individual performance. However, relatively few articles have investigated win–win organisational practices or programmes that promote the well-being and consequently performance of workers. These include virtuous organisational practices (VOPs), which specifically aim to enhance employees’ well-being, considered not as a means to an end, but as an end in itself (mutual gains perspective). This paper aims to develop the general hypothesis that VOPs could increase employees’ performance by protecting their health and thus offer an alternative to HPWS.
Design/methodology/approach
We review relevant current research on psychological well-being and work performance and present innovative systems of organisational practices such as VOPs that create psychologically healthy workplaces and enhance workers’ optimal functioning (well-being and performance).
Findings
Based on theoretical arguments and empirical studies, we hypothesise that alternative practices such as VOPs can increase employees’ performance while protecting their health and encouraging them to stay in the organisation.
Research limitations/implications
After this review, we discuss future avenues for research to encourage the scientific community to test this hypothesis.
Practical implications
Finally, we make a number of specific recommendations about how to (1) appraise, design and implement VOPs, (2) enhance organisational communication and managerial adherence to VOPs, and (3) train managers in R.I.G.H.T leadership behaviours.
Originality/value
Presentation of an original approach in this research field: the VOPs.
Details