A limitation of a piece rate system is that it

• A. It rewards teamwork
• B. It cannot be used if work cannot be measured
• C. It eliminates the risk of unsafe practices
• D. It guarantees high wages

Answer: (B)

Piece-rate pay is based on how many units a worker produces, so it only works if you can reliably measure each unit of output. If the nature of the work can’t be measured or judged fairly, you can’t set a fair piece rate or determine earnings, making it impossible to use this system. That’s why this limitation is the best fit: the method hinges on measurable output.

The other points don’t describe a fundamental limitation of piece rates. While teamwork can be affected and there can be pressures that encourage unsafe practices or variability in wages depending on output, the core constraint is the need for clear, measurable work.