The implementation of a strategy for the effective management and control of HIV/AIDS in the workplace : a study in the Vaal Triangle Region

Abstract

It is an accepted practice in any business organisation that the opportunities and threats facing organisations must be examined and plans drawn up to take advantage of the opportunities and to deal effectively with the treats. Surely HIV/AIDS is one of the greatest threats and challenges that organisations in South Africa are facing. The study is an exploratory research into an important issue facing many organisations today and is adequately supported by a proper and detailed literature study supported by an empirical study on the relevant research topic. A number of interviews were also conducted to determine what specific viewpoints, suggestions and limitations there were, or could be, toward the evaluation of existing structures and strategies and what alternative actions could be used and implemented, to effectively manage as well as control the disease and its various impacts within the workplace. The literature review within the scope and limitations of the study, therefore, concentrated on the specific nature and various impacts of AIDS as a starting point, followed by a detailed investigation why organisations need to implement sufficient action programmes, policies and strategies. The reality is that AIDS know no gender, race or class boundaries but is actually influenced by socio-economical factors such as poverty, violence and rapid urbanisation, with the potential to disrupt economic stability and growth for the country. The empirical part of the study consisted of a questionnaire that was completed by various respondents (organisations) which included a minimum number of 500 employees and more within the area of study. The objective was to establish if current structures within organisations, are effective and suitable enough or lacking. The research finding clearly indicated the various impacts that organisations are currently facing and what specific action programmes, policies and strategies needs to be implemented. It was the intention of this study to cover a wide variety of aspects related to the impact of AIDS within the workplace, so that proper insight and clear understanding of the epidemic and its nature could be formulated with all its facets and various impacts on the organisation land its resources.