The way supervisors accomplish this task is changing in some organizations. In companies that have restructured their operations for maximum efficiency, supervisors use computers to schedule work flow, monitor the quality of their workers' output, keep track of materials used, update their inventory control system, and perform other supervisory tasks. New management philosophies emphasize fewer levels of management and greater employee power and decision making. Blue-collar worker supervisors have many interpersonal tasks related to their job as well. They also meet on a regular basis with their managers, reporting any problems and discussing possible solutions.
Supervisors also meet among themselves to discuss goals, company operations, and performance.
In companies with labor unions, supervisors must follow all provisions of labor-management contracts. Supervisors teach employees safe work practices and enforce safety regulations. Many blue-collar worker supervisors work in a shop environment. They may be on their feet much of the time overseeing the work of subordinates and may be subjected to the noise and grime of machinery. Other supervisors, such as those in construction and oil exploration and production, may work outdoors and are subject to all kinds of weather conditions.