What Does Quality of Work Life Really Mean? Is It the Same as Work-Life Balance?

Hello,

Can anybody please define for me in clear words what is meant by Quality of Work Life (QWL)? Some define it as 'when there happens to be a balance between work life and family life, it is termed as quality of work life.' Some say it is the problem of creating a good working environment for the employees where they work cooperatively.

'Work-life balance' and 'quality of work life' mean the same, or is the meaning different?

Please reply. My ID is 'mcprincy4u@yahoo.co.in'.

Quality of work life:

The defining of quality of work life involves three major parts: occupational health care, suitable working time and appropriate salary.

The safe work environment provides the basis for the person to enjoy working. The work should not pose a health hazard for the person. The employer and employee, aware of their risks and rights, could achieve a lot in their mutually beneficial dialogue.

The working time has been established by the state according to legislation which is a 40- hour working week in Estonia. The standard limits on overtime, time of vacation and taking of free days before national holidays have been separately stipulated. The differences regarding the working time have been established for the persons under 18 years of age, pregnant women, breast-feeding mothers and the person raising the disabled child.

The appropriate salary is agreed upon by the employee and the employer. The Government of the Republic establishes each year the rate of minimum salary, the employer should not pay less than that to the employee.

Work represents such a role in life which has been designated to it by the person himself.

On the one hand work is an earning of one's living for the family, on the other hand it could be a self-realisation providing enjoyment and satisfaction.

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hi

“QWL is a process of work organizations which enables its members at all levels to participate actively and efficiently in shaping the organization's environment, methods and outcomes. It is a value-based process, which is aimed towards meeting the twin goals of enhanced effectiveness of the organization and improved quality of life at work for the employees.”

there are few definitions for QWL but the main ones are-

1)QWL is “The degree to which members of a work organization are able to satisfy important personnel needs through their experience in the organization”. by J Richard and J Loy

2) Richard E Walton, states a much broader concept of QWL proposing eight conceptual categories viz. adequate and fair compensation, safe and healthy working conditions, opportunity to use and develop human capacities, future opportunity for continued growth and security, social integration in the work place, social relevance of work, balanced role of work in the total life space and Constitutionalism in the Work Organization etc. it is rare to find work-life situations that satisfy all eight criterias. We can view these eight features as goals to aim for.

Hi,

QWL basically focuses on the work-life balance and satisfaction of an organization's workforce, thereby meeting the organization's objectives in an efficient and effective manner.

Regards,
V. Hari Krishnan

The defining of quality of work life involves three major parts: occupational health care, suitable working time, and appropriate salary.

The safe work environment provides the basis for the person to enjoy working. The work should not pose a health hazard for the person. The employer and employee, aware of their risks and rights, could achieve a lot in their mutually beneficial dialogue.

The term "quality of work life" (QWL) was first introduced in 1972 during an international labor relations conference. The basic objectives of an effective QWL program are improved working conditions (mainly from an employee's perspective) and greater organizational effectiveness (mainly from an employer's perspective).

A win-win situation may result if QWL is positively linked to business performance. Positive results of QWL have been supported by a number of previous studies, including reduced absenteeism, lower turnover, and improved job satisfaction. Not only does QWL contribute to a company's ability to recruit quality people, but it also enhances a company's competitiveness. Common beliefs support the contention that QWL will positively nurture a more flexible, loyal, and motivated workforce, which are essential in determining the company's competitiveness.

Nathaniel has mentioned: "The differences regarding the working time have been established for persons under 18 years of age, pregnant women, breastfeeding mothers, and the person raising a disabled child."

I would like to know the benefits a breastfeeding mother can enjoy, especially in terms of working time.

Thanks for your help.

Regards,