By- Umesh Baurai, FXB India Suraksha , 24 Sep :HIV/AIDS is an epidemic growing fast and can hurt any body including companies. Most of the companies have developed their own HIV/AIDS policy based on certain principles like of Recognition of HIV/AIDS as a work place issue, Non discrimination, Gender equality, Healthy environment, Social dialogue, screening for purpose of exclusion, confidentiality, continuation of employment relationship, prevention, communication and leadership, care and support.
All the principles also have been recognized in HIV/AIDS bill pending before the parliament through these principle company try to develop its policy with the hope that its all employees will give response to HIV/AIDS through safer sexual behavior, in reply company safe guard the employment rights of infected and affected work force and also develop an environment where gender equality and promotion of prevention activities can take place.
Company start of workplace intervention program depends upon the factors like
Nature of Work Company is involved, Nature of job of workers , Number of work force, Location of company and economic status of region, Unemployment rate, of region where company is established
In precise start of workplace intervention program is directly related to cultural changes brought by establishment of Industrial area.
To have successful and effective Work place intervention program it has following components
1 An ongoing education program with
A Up-to date written material for all employees
B Occasional information presentation
C Information about responsible sexual behavior
D Information about confidentiality and discrimination
E Information about treating STIs, TB, and other infection where services are available.
2 Training for select staff
A Peer educator
B Supervisor/worker safety representative.
C Worker support groups
D Manager peer groups.
3 Condom distributions
A Employees will have ready access to a regular supply of male condoms
B Employees will have ready access to a regular supply of female condoms
C Distribution points will be setup in a workplace
D The program will include information on correct condom use.
E The Company will order condoms.
4 STI diagnosis and treatment
A Clinical facilities exist can be upgraded
B Clinical staff is trained
C The company clinic maintains a regular supply of diagnostic and treatment equipments and drugs.
D Privacy and confidentiality procedures are in place
5 Counseling HIV testing and support
A The company will train /or hire trainers for counselor and support their work
B The company can obtain HIV testing materials and information on test protocols, laboratory quality assurance and government recommendations
C Space is available for workplace counseling and testing
D Privacy and confidentiality procedures are assured
E Post-test counseling will be provided
F The Company will encourage support groups
G Home-based care is covered
H Supervisors are trained in managing on-the-job situations of HIV- positive employees.
Meticulous act with in the paradigm of social work will not only benefit company monetarily but also help nation in giving response to HIV/AIDS.