| OCR Text |
Show 6 RECOMMENDED 5T ANDARD5 FOR EMPLOYMENT OF WOMEN Development of Standards Significant changes in women's work have been. developing 'Over They have been the result of economic and-technologicol progress and 'Of demographic and social influences. Two world wars speeded up the process. Today women are an im portant part 'Of the Nation's labor force. In large and increasing numbers they are employed in manufacturing goods or performing services for the public-vworking in factories, offices, schools, stores, hospitals, hotels, restaurants, and laundries. Over a million women are employed by Federal, State, and local governments; several million work in private households, the last century and a half. 94. Variations in Standards The Nation's best interests demand good labor standards for homemakers as well as wage women, many 'Of whom are mothers and In many instances employers have voluntarily established earners. such standards for their employees. In 'Other cases good standards have been adopted through collective bargaining between employers But when standards depend wholly on voluntary ac tion, they often vary in adequacy from firm to firm, and many workers are completely unprotected. For this reason the States quite gener standards for women's employment that govern wages, have set and workers. up ally hours, and other conditions 'Of work in a large number of occupations and industries. The standards vary from State to' State, and not every State has established each type 'Of standard. Labor standards 'are not static but are influenced by continuously changing conditions. They change as a result 'Of advancing scientific knowledge and a growing recognition by both workers and employers of the importance of good working conditions, Minimum wage standards have been adjusted in many States to reflect rising prices and improved standards of living. Historically 227 |
