The function of workplace forums

• A workplace forum is an elected organisation consisting of employees in a particular workplace
• Workplace forums can be formed when there are more than 100 employees
• If employees decide to set up a forum, it must be representative of all the employees in the workplace
• The group of representatives is known as a workplace forum
• The function of the forum is to represent the employees in that workplace and to consult and negotiate with management about matters concerning employees
• The purpose of workplace forums is to prevent or reduce one-sided decision making by employers that will affect employees
• Workplace forums aim to encourage worker participation in decision-making in the workplace
• Forums play an active role in resolving conflict that may occur between employees and employer
• They aim to resolve conflict before it leads to more serious problems in the workplace
• prevent unilateral decisions made by employers on issues affecting the employees
• encourage workers' participation in decision making
• have the right to be consulted by an employer on:

  • restructuring of work methods
  • of job functions
  • retrenching of workers
  • mergers and transfer of ownership
  • job grading
  • criteria for merits and bonuses
  • health and safety measures
  • establish an affirmative action programme
  • partial or total closure of the business
• promote the interests of all employees in the workplace
• enhance efficiency in the workplace through co-operation
• are consulted by an employer and reach consensus about working conditions
• An employer must consult the workplace forum before changing:

  • disciplinary codes and procedures
  • workplace rules of conduct
  • measures to monitor unfair discrimination
  • rules of social benefit schemes