2.5.2 Legislation

Question 1

What is legislation?

Answer 1

Laws and regulations passed by governments that require businesses and individuals to conduct their behaviour

Legislation affects various aspects of business operations and compliance.

Question 2

What is the aim of consumer protection legislation?

Answer 2

To ensure consumers are treated fairly by the companies with which they interact

This includes areas like product safety, quality standards, and consumer rights.

Question 3

List some areas covered by consumer protection legislation.

Answer 3

• Safety of products
• Standards and quality of products
• Rights of consumers if they are unhappy with their purchase
• Product information that must be given to customers

These areas help protect consumers from unfair practices.

Question 4

How can compliance with consumer protection laws impact businesses?

Answer 4

May result in increased business expenditure which may reduce profitability

Compliance costs can affect overall financial performance.

Question 5

What is the aim of employee protection legislation?

Answer 5

To prevent the exploitation of workers

Employee rights and welfare are prioritized under this legislation.

Question 6

List some areas covered by employee protection legislation.

Answer 6

• Pay and working conditions
• Equality of employment rights for marginalised groups
• Right to belong to a trade union and take industrial action
• Contracts and termination of employment

These areas help ensure fair treatment of employees.

Question 7

What impacts can employee protection legislation have on businesses?

Answer 7

• Changing working practices
• Potential penalties or rewards
• Compliance costs
• Higher labour costs

Businesses must adapt to these legislative requirements.

Question 8

What is the aim of environmental protection legislation?

Answer 8

To hold businesses responsible for their environmental impact

This legislation focuses on sustainable practices and environmental conservation.

Question 9

List some areas covered by environmental protection legislation.

Answer 9

• Pollution
• Destruction of wildlife
• Traffic congestion
• Air quality
• Resource depletion

These areas address the environmental responsibilities of businesses.

Question 10

What may happen to businesses that fail to adhere to environmental protection laws?

Answer 10

They may be fined or forced to cease commercial activity until they resolve problems

Compliance is critical to avoid legal repercussions.

Question 11

What is the aim of competition policy?

Answer 11

To protect the interests of both consumers and businesses by restricting anti-competitive practices

This ensures fair competition in the market.

Question 12

List some areas covered by competition policy legislation.

Answer 12

• Abuse of market power to limit monopoly power
• Anti-competitive acquisition activity
• Cartel activity and collusion

These areas help maintain a competitive market environment.

Question 13

What does health and safety legislation require from businesses?

Answer 13

To operate in a way that protects the physical and mental wellbeing of its employees, contractors, and customers

This is essential for maintaining a safe workplace.

Question 14

List some areas covered by health and safety legislation.

Answer 14

• Provision of adequate breaks and rest periods
• Temperature and noise levels
• Provision of safety equipment
• Hygienic and sanitary conditions
• Preventing stress

These areas are critical for employee health and safety.

Question 15

What are some requirements of the business under health and safety legislation?

Answer 15

• Staff training and supervision
• Changes to working hours and rest provisions
• Purchase and maintenance of safety equipment

Compliance with these requirements is necessary for legal operation.

Question 16

True or False: Serious health and safety breaches can lead to prosecution.

Answer 16

True

Businesses must take health and safety laws seriously to avoid severe penalties.