The impact of working hours on employee productivity: case Study of Sabertek.

Abstract

ABSTRACT Productivity is important in the workplace and as the elements of productivity come together to deliver goods and services, organisations can be faced with many challenges. Improving and sustaining employee productivity has become a growing concern and challenging for organisations. Organisations overcome these challenges by not only focusing on employee productivity but by harnessing a rich employee relationship with a conducive and happy working environment. This ensures employee commitment and effective benefits such as a healthy bottom line and facilitating innovation at the organisation. The aim of this study was to examine how the number of hours worked impacts employee productivity. A census consisting of 61 blue-collar employees was used from an electronic manufacturing organisation, Sabertek, based in Centurion. Data were collected using a manually distributed questionnaire newly developed specifically for this study by the researcher. Statistical analysis revealed that there were several significant relationships, the main relationship was between productivity and working hours (standard and long hours). The results revealed that there is a positive and significant relationship between hours worked by an employee and their productivity. In addition to making significant contributions, the study also found that there was room to improve and maximise the productivity at the organisation through the development of practical recommendations. It is recommended that companies increase their employee engagement and focus on rewarding employees. In addition, efficiently improving overall employee engagement with management will be effective in the organisation since it seeks to expand its operations globally. This study would also provide insight into factors that affect productivity during working hours which will provide management with useful information to create effective solutions and provide a conducive working environment for employees, therefore, enhancing productivity at Sabertek. Key words: Working hours; productivity; health, stress; well-being; job satisfaction; working conditions; wages