A LACK of fairness at the workplace – whether genuine or perceived – has implications far beyond the emotional well-being of employees. Studies show that when employees are unfairly treated, they are less productive, less likely to help coworkers, and more likely to leave the company.

Conversely, workplace fairness brings many benefits. It not only makes employees feel safe and more committed, but creates a productive environment and fosters a harmonious relationship between employer and employee.

In Singapore, workplace fairness efforts began with the Tripartite Guidelines on Non-Discriminatory Job Advertisements in 1999. The Tripartite Alliance for Fair and Progressive Employment Practices was established in 2006, and the Tripartite Guidelines on Fair Employment Practices followed a year later.