An Investigation into the Cause of Industrial Unrests Among Blue-Collar Workers in Export Processing Zone (Epz) Athiriver Kenya

ABSTRACT It was observed that there was a high level of strikis in the EPZ's and this had led the study on the factors, \vhich had led to strike. High level of strikes is undesirable due to losses incurred by the firms as well as the cost of damages. Production is also affected because it comes to a stop during.the strike period. Many authors and researchers have identified various causes, effects and measures of industrial strikes. The objectives of the study were to i:stablish causes oi'strikes and recommend measures to be taken to reduce strikes. The location of the study was Athi River the target population was 990 and a representative sample of or70 employees:s was selected through sampling technique. Six past employees who had been dismissed were selected for the interview. The instruments, which were used in data collection, were: Questionnaires, Interview guides and Document analysis guide. It was established that hey were not satisfied with the salaries:s and wages paid. working conditions and decision-making. In addition workers had not been allowed to join trade unions, also most employees lacked permanent employment. Finally cases of sexual harassment were found to be true. It was concluded that the rate of strikes would continue to escalate i r control measures were not taken. The recommendations for action were that: salaries ai1d allowances should be improved; good performance need to he recognized in order to motivate employees and finally rules and regulations should be flexible It also recommended that further research be carried out to the causes of strikes. more past employees should be interviewed and ,workers from other zones be interviewed.