How to Increase Morale for Assembly-Line Workers
Small businesses that manufacture goods often have assembly line operations to increase productivity. Assembly lines are great at increasing output, but the work itself can be monotonous and physically taxing, which may lead to low worker morale and high turnover. Business owners can employ a variety of techniques to boost worker morale and help retain employees.
Increase Pay and Benefits
Morale often depends on the pay and benefits workers receive for doing their jobs. Workers who feel that they are well paid and receive decent benefits such as health coverage, dental coverage, retirement plans, and paid vacation are more likely to be content with their jobs than workers who feel under-compensated. Increasing worker pay, adding new benefits and giving workers annual raises can increase morale.
Improve Working Conditions
The working conditions assembly line employees face can have a significant impact on morale. If workers are constantly uncomfortable due to harsh temperatures, repetitive lifting, standing, working in small spaces or working in areas with air pollutants, morale can suffer. To improve morale, take steps to ensure workers are comfortable. This might include installing fans, buying equipment to reduce the need for heavy lifting, and providing adequate workspace. Improving working conditions also helps reduce the chances of costly accidents, illnesses, and injuries.
Listen to Employee Feedback
Assembly line workers in large factories often have little power to influence their jobs and working conditions. Workers who feel that their needs and opinions don’t matter might experience low morale. Letting workers provide feedback about working conditions and other issues, and taking steps to resolve employee concerns, can raise morale.
Allow Regular Breaks
Assembly line work can be physically draining, so workers need regular breaks to rest and recuperate during the workday. Workers should have scheduled breaks every few hours so they do not get worn out. Forcing employees to work on an assembly line for a prolonged period without a break can hurt morale. It also can increase the risk of accidents and health problems caused by fatigue and heat.
Make Overtime Optional
Small businesses often have significant fluctuations in product demand, which might require increased production during certain times of the year. Running an assembly line on the weekend or past normal work hours is a way to meet spikes in demand, but forced overtime can damage worker morale. Making overtime optional lets workers who want extra money do extra work while allowing other workers to keep their weekends and nights free.
Source: Small Business
