Employee Relations Management

Labor Laws

100

What is the minimum wage set by law in India under the Minimum Wages Act?

Minimum wage in India varies from state to state and depends on factors such as the industry and skill level of workers. As of 2024, it can range from ₹178 to ₹700 per day.

200

Which act provides for the payment of gratuity to employees after completing 5 years of service?

The Payment of Gratuity Act, 1972.

300

According to the Factories Act of 1948, how many hours can an adult worker work per week?

48 hours per week (with 9 hours per day and a maximum of 6 days a week).

400

What does the Equal Remuneration Act ensure for men and women in the workplace?

It ensures equal pay for equal work for both men and women.

500

Explain the process and eligibility criteria for filing a complaint under the Industrial Disputes Act of 1947.  

Any worker (or group of workers) can file a complaint regarding an industrial dispute. The process typically involves:

• Raising a dispute with the management.
• If unresolved, it can go to conciliation proceedings.
• If conciliation fails, it may be referred to a labour court or industrial tribunal.
  Eligibility criteria include being a worker as defined under the Act and having a dispute related to employment, non-employment, terms of employment, or conditions of labor.

Conflict Resolution

100

Define conflict resolution in the context of workplace relations.

Conflict resolution refers to the process of resolving disputes or disagreements between employees or between employees and management in a workplace.

200

What is the difference between mediation and arbitration in conflict resolution?

Mediation involves a neutral third party helping both sides to come to a mutual agreement, whereas arbitration involves a third party making a binding decision after hearing both sides.

300

Name one common cause of conflict in a workplace setting.

Poor communication between employees and management.

400

What are the main phases of the negotiation process in conflict resolution?

The main phases include:

• Preparation: Gathering information and setting goals.
• Discussion: Both sides presenting their views.
• Clarification: Identifying the key issues.
• Negotiation: Offering solutions.
• Agreement: Reaching a compromise.
• Implementation: Enforcing the agreed-upon solution.

500

Describe a win-win conflict resolution strategy and how it benefits employee relations.

A win-win strategy seeks solutions that satisfy both parties' needs. This fosters collaboration rather than competition and helps build trust and better relationships in the workplace.

Grievance Handling

100

What is a grievance in the context of employee relations?

A grievance is a formal complaint raised by an employee regarding workplace conditions, management decisions, or policies.

200

Name two key elements of an effective grievance procedure.

• Timely response to grievances.
• Clear communication channels for employees to raise their concerns.

300

What role does an HR manager play in grievance handling?

The HR manager facilitates the grievance process by listening to the employee's complaint, investigating the issue, and working with both parties to resolve the problem in a fair and timely manner.

400

Explain the term progressive discipline as part of the grievance resolution process.

Progressive discipline involves applying increasingly severe penalties (verbal warning, written warning, suspension, etc.) for repeated violations of company policy, giving employees a chance to improve their behavior.

500

Outline the typical steps in the grievance procedure from filing a complaint to resolution.

1. Filing the grievance: The employee files a formal complaint.
2. Initial meeting: The grievance is discussed with the immediate supervisor or HR.
3. Investigation: HR or management investigates the issue.
4. Resolution meeting: A discussion with both parties to resolve the issue.
5. Escalation (if unresolved): The grievance is taken to higher management or a tribunal.
6. Final decision: A resolution is reached, and actions are taken.