Knowledge; Attitude and Practices of Employers should they Discover that their Domestic Worker is HIV Positive

ABSTRACT

Background: Infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is an epidemic that has become the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in South Africa. HIV/AIDS threatens productivity; profitability and the welfare of employees and their families. Some employers insist on knowing the HIV status of their domestic workers; and there have been reports of discrimination and unfair dismissal when they are found to be infected. Methods: This qualitative study describes the knowledge; attitudes and practices of employers towards HIV-positive domestic workers in Rustenburg. In-depth interviews and a focus group discussion were conducted with 10 purposefully selected participants; all employers of domestic workers. Results: It was found that employers had reasonable knowledge about HIV and AIDS and positive views on accepting and accommodating an HIV-positive domestic worker. While they would not consider dismissal on the basis of HIV status; they were not aware of legal aspects related to HIV-positive domestic workers or how to offer support. They were also not aware of universal precautions to use to prevent HIV transmission. Conclusion: There is a need to provide more information to employers to ensure that HIV-positive domestic workers are reasonably accommodated in their work and have access to appropriate services