Which of the following is not an ethical responsibility of an HR department?

The correct answer highlights a distinction between ethical responsibilities and market practices. While fair compensation, a safe work environment, and non-discriminatory access to employment opportunities are fundamental ethical responsibilities of an HR department, aligning wages to be the same as a competitor is not inherently an ethical obligation.

Fair compensation pertains to ensuring employees are paid equitably for their work and contributions, which relates to principles of fairness and justice. A safe work environment is crucial for employee well-being and demonstrates a commitment to the health and safety of workers. Non-discriminatory access to employment opportunities ensures that all individuals have equal chances for employment regardless of their background, which is a core ethical principle advocating for equality.

In contrast, matching competitor wages addresses competitive positioning rather than ethical obligations. While staying competitive in terms of wages can be a business strategy to attract and retain talent, it does not fulfill an ethical duty. Thus, HR departments are not ethically required to match competitor wages; instead, their focus is on fairness, safety, and inclusivity in the workplace.