Influence of Work Environment on the Quality of Life of Women Employees - A Critical Analysis

摘要

Among all the industries, women's employment in electronics industry has shown a substantial growth. Therefore, increased participation of women for gainful employment in production activities of industry with varying working environment is expected to influence the quality of life. The present study was conducted on 93 executive (EX-Ⅰ) and 460 non-executive women (NEX-Ⅱ) employed in a public sector electronics industry. Data were collected on various aspects of working environment such as type of work involved, the provision of food service, facility at the work site, welfare activities, medical facilities, creche facilities, perceived stress related to occupation, household and marital life. Quality of life was measured in terms of demographic, socio-economic status, living conditions and life style of these women. Results of the study indicated that women were involved in sedentary nature of activities, had good food service facility, but desired changes to suit the type of work. Well equipped on-campus creche facility, statutory and non-statutory welfare activities were worth mentioning. Occupational stress was found to be high in women executives, whereas household and marital role stress was found to be high in case of non-executives affecting their health status. Quality of life as measured by demographic and socio-economic characteristics showed a desirable trend. Improved living conditions in terms of housing, energy and time saving facilities were observed to be good. By and large, although women at work are provided with adequate working environment which enhances their living conditions and life style, the much needed empowerment of domestic support system for women's better health and nutritional status has to be ensured.