Term 3 | Topic 12 – Human rights, inclusivity and environmental issues (Business Studies Grade 12)

A set of Q&A flashcards covering the key workplace human rights concepts, including equity, freedom of expression, information access, privacy, safety, economic and social rights, and cultural rights.

What does Equity mean in the workplace?

People must be equal in rights, status and advantages and be treated as such.

What does Freedom of speech and expression guarantee in the workplace?

The right to express opinions and should not be punished or discriminated against for voicing them.

What does Information rights in the workplace entail?

Everyone should have access to information that concerns them, including information held by employers, the government and other stakeholders.

According to the guidelines, how many core human rights of employees in the workplace are there?

Six.

What protection is provided under Safety/Security and protection of life?

The right to a health-sparing environment and proper gear to protect health and safety.

Why should businesses have policies about human rights in the workplace?

To guide dealings with employees, customers and stakeholders, promoting loyalty and reducing legal actions.

What does Privacy require in the workplace?

Respect for personal information; confidentiality of employee and customer data; and restrictions on reading emails or recording conversations unless stated clearly upfront.

What is the recommended focus when addressing each human right?

Focus on how businesses should deal with each right.

What does Respect/Dignity require of businesses?

Value employees regardless of socio-economic status and treat them with respect and dignity; avoid embarrassing or degrading work; respectful communication.

What does Equity require beyond non-discrimination?

Equal pay for work of equal value; fair application of legislation (e.g., EEA); examples include equal opportunities and paternity leave.

What does Freedom of speech and expression support in the workplace (communication)?

Open channels for communication and mechanisms to raise grievances (e.g., grievance box).

What rights are included under Information for workers?

Access to policies, schedules, contracts and labour laws; transparency in finances; inform employees of new information; CSI project details.

What are the economic rights of employees?

Freedom from forced labour; right to accept/choose work; fair wages and equal pay for equal work; reasonable working hours; safe and healthy conditions; join/form trade unions; right to participate in a legal strike.

What do the social rights include in the workplace?

Clean water; education; protection; health care.

How can social rights be promoted in the workplace?

Adhere to rights to clean water and social security; provide skills training and adult basic education; register workers with UIF; encourage participation in events; site clinics for basic medical care.

What do cultural rights include?

Right to participate in cultural life; use language; regular cultural information sessions; accommodate diverse cultures (food, backgrounds); employ from varied cultural backgrounds per EEA; tolerance training.

What is implied by equality, respect and dignity for a business?

Employees must be treated equally regardless of race, color, age, gender, disability; equal access to opportunities and resources; implement relevant legislation; diversity and harassment policies; address discrimination swiftly and fairly; safe, fair workplace; respectful task delegation and recognition of good work.

What is the right to join/form trade unions and participate in a strike?

Employees have the right to join unions and participate in legal strikes.