Weyco & Child Labor Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 1000 words

Weyco & Child Labor - Essay Example It was observed that numerous workers were successful to quit smoking; however, there were certain workers who failed to do so and ultimately were fired (WELCOA, 2005). Contextually, the anti-smoking policy implemented by Howard Weyers, the CEO of Weyco, can be considered as partially correct and justified as it would help the employees to live a healthier life by quitting smoking habits. Conversely, it can be stated that Weyer’s attempt to regulate employee’s tobacco consumption outside organization which can be considered to be conflicting with the privacy interests of the employees (Lype, 2012). Employees, in this context might feel that their rights-to-privacy are being threatened by a certain extent. From a generalized view, it can be stated that employers do not possess the rights to interfere in employees’ personal affairs with no relation to the organizational interests. However, those criticizing Weyco with similar policies needs to consider that compani es have a legal duty to offer a safe and healthy workplace, which might as well comprise of a smoke free air. Withdrawing the paid and sponsored health care benefits to one and all would be a viable alternative in comparison to firing the employees. Consequently, if a greater number of firms attempt prohibiting smoking inside the workplace, it would be a good thing for corporate America. However, cessation of smoking outside organization might not prove as a viable option with greater chances for companies of being exposed to lawsuits on the basis of discrimination and assault of employee privacy. When faced with similar situation, instead of adopting intrusive means, attempts can be made to motivate the employees in participating voluntarily in such programs (Darrow, 2005). Child Labor Child labor can be considered as morally dangerous as well as legally harmful. However, child labor practices have often been witnessed even in today’s modern day scenario. Such practices are fundamentally forced because of poverty when child labor is considered as the only option for the survival. Contextually, it has often been witnessed that various industries, especially apparel industry contractors in major instances practices child labor which has today led to the polarization of these companies in two distinct groups, one being ethically sound and the other being unreliable on ethical grounds. Consequently, apparel manufacturers as well as retailers often have to witness challenges when opting for strategic alliances with contractors without compromising their ethical responsibilities and profitability. With this concern, manufacturers as well as retailers need to motivate the contractors with rewards in order to attain the objective of ethical business practices and to remain competitive in its long-run (Emmelhainz & Adams, 1999). Additionally, code of conduct can be developed for the contractors that will prohibit the use of child labor by a significant extent. However, USA or any other particular country must not be permitted to â€Å"dictate† other nations to conduct their businesses ethically determining the wage rate in those economies. It is in this context that when such authority will be bestowed upon USA, it will become quite likely that the nation would gain greater power in world politics which might cause dissatisfaction amid international trading associations. USA can instead support and set examples on ethical trade practices for other nations. In this regard, price, performance and productivity are often considered to be of secondary importance. It is utmost important for the firm to take ethical considerations when choosing foreign suppliers which can be executed through legal contracts. Additionally,