If managers are reluctant to lay off direct labor employees when activity declines leads to a decrease in the ratio of variable to fixed costs.

Variable Cost

Costs that vary directly with the level of production or service activity.

Fixed Costs

Expenses that do not change with the level of production or sales, such as rent, salaries, and insurance premiums.

Direct Labor

The wages and salaries for those employees directly involved in the manufacturing process of a company's products.