The effect of strike action in the South African mining industry with specific reference spitzkopcoal mining industry: mpumalanga province

This article focuses mainly on strike action in the South African mining industry. Remarkably, without conflict, strikes cannot exist, which indicates the interrelatedness between ‘strike action’ and ‘conflict’. Labour disputes and resulting disruptions have been the main contributory factor to the mining industry's record low production figures over the past five years. It is notable that before the 1994 elections, the majority of strikes were politically inspired and hence little focus was placed on the employees' needs. However, post-1994 management have subsequently realised the necessity and importance of being responsive to the needs of their staff. Arguably, employees who are satisfied with their employment positions, as well as working conditions, are far less likely to go on strike compared to employees who are unsatisfied. Besides, employers have also realised the importance of labour with specific reference to labour relations from a pragmatic point of view, hence, labour relations cannot be viewed in isolation. A variety of external factors affects labour relations and must be considered when reviewing the labour relations climate. This article suggests specific general guiding principle to be followed by management when handling strike situations. It has been established in this article that there must be greater awareness in order to understand the impact of strike action on productivity.