Workplace Interventions

To be productive, offer services efficiently, and turn a profit, businesses need the skills and experiences of employees at all levels (from senior managers to shop floor cleaners).  The rapidly changing environment in which today's companies operate requires flexibility and coordination of production processes.

 

Like other challenges in the contemporary business world, HIV/AIDS is a factor that a company must consider in its planning and operations.  HIV infection can disrupt the smooth operations of a business in a variety of ways.  For example, if the staff person responsible for handling accounts receivable experiences frequent or prolonged absences because of HIV-related illness, cash flow is likely to suffer.

 

HIV/AIDS not only affects workers on the job; it also causes a major drain on family savings and resources.  Wages are lost when a member of a household is ill and too weak to work.  Medical expenses increase to treat the conditions associated with HIV infection.  Income is further limited because caring for a sick family member disrupts the work schedules of others.

 

Labor unions and other workers' organizations have collaborated with employers to assure that workplaces have HIV/AIDS policies and programs.  Workers groups are concerned with protecting employees from discrimination and unwarranted dismissal or denial of benefits because they are (or are believed to be) HIV-positive.

 

Keeping workers healthy and on the job is essential for the well-being of both families and employers.  Keeping businesses healthy is essential for the continued employment of workers.