5. Methodology
This study has employed both qualitative and empirical approach because of mixed nature of the
problem with a view to achieving the best outcome of the research. The qualitative methodology
of research has been applied for subjective assessment based on secondary sources to investigate
the loopholes in the current legal framework on the safety and security net of the garments
workers in Bangladesh. While doing this part of the research, the existing literature on the labour
laws have been explored and examined thoroughly. Through application of this approach,
findings have been reinvigorated and compiled suggesting better security and safety net along
with propositions for necessary amendments of the current labour law.
For the empirical part of the study primary data have been collected through a structured
questionnaire. This questionnaire includes 16 statements. One statement is related to workers’
satisfaction as to feeling of safety. Fifteen statements are related to safety factors. Perceptions of
workers have been measured by the response of interviewees to the respective statement at a 7 –
Point Likert Scale. Point 7 indicates strong agreement; on the contrary point 1 indicates strong
disagreement with the statement. Population of this study is about 4 million garments workers
working in more than 6000 factories in Bangladesh. 213 samples (garments workers) have been
investigated from 62 garments factories. Out of these 62 factories, 44 are situated outside the
centre of Dhaka (Ashulia and Narayanganj) and remaining 18 have been selected from inside
Dhaka (Mirpur, Tikatuli, Chairmanbari, Kachukhet, Mugda and Norda). Among them, good
quality, average quality and below-average quality factories have been selected for this study to
ensure proper representation.
Qualitative technique like Focus Group Discussion (FGD) was also used to collect primary data.
FGD was conducted on one group of samples having eight members.
Secondary data have been used to get ideas on safety factors. Data have been analyzed with the
help of SPSS (Version 17).
These questionnaires are designed in such manner so that the garments workers can express their
opinions without any prejudice and bias finding the obstacles as to safety net in consonance with
ILO Conventions and standards. The findings of the mixed approach will be categorised