We live in a world where almost everything is under legal regulation, and the workplace is no different. Employers must be aware of various legal aspects to ensure that their business is compliant with the law.
However, as times change, so do the laws that govern workplaces. What was once legal may no longer be, and vice versa. So, here are a little information about different legal aspects employers should know.
Employment Contracts
It is crucial to have an employment contract in place when hiring new employees. This document will outline the terms and conditions of the employee’s job.
The contract should include the employee’s start date, job duties, salary, and a termination clause.
It is crucial to have a lawyer review the contract before signing it, to ensure legally binding. This way, both the employer and the employee know what is expected.
Workplace Policies
Another important thing for employers to know is the workplace policies. These are the rules and regulations that govern how employees behave in the workplace.
The policies should include a dress code, acceptable language, and social media policy. It is essential to have these policies in place and enforce them consistently. It will help to create a safe and productive work environment.
An employee handbook is a great way to communicate workplace policies to employees. It allows the employer to state their expectations clearly, and employees have a reference to look to if they have any questions.
Discrimination in the Workplace
One of the most important laws to be aware of is discrimination law. It covers various areas, such as age, race, sex, and disability. Employers must ensure that their workplace is free from discriminatory behavior or policies.
To enforce this, employers must have a policy that prohibits any discriminatory behavior. They should communicate this policy to all employees, and they should give training on discrimination to all managers.
They should also put sanctions on any employees who engage in discriminatory behavior. This way, employers can show that they take discrimination seriously and will not tolerate it in their workplace.
Occupational Health and Safety
Employers must also be aware of occupational health and safety laws. This law requires employers to provide a safe work environment for their employees. It includes proper training, safety equipment, and safe work practices.
Employers must also ensure that employees know these safety measures and follow them. Failure to do so can result in fines and even imprisonment. On the other hand, employers who go above and beyond to provide a safe work environment can receive tax credits.
Insurance Claims
Every business should have some insurance in place. This safety net will protect the company from any accidents or claims. When choosing your plan, it is essential to know what is covered.
Employers should be aware of their insurance company’s policy on claims. Some companies will only cover accidents that happen at work, while others will cover accidents that occur outside of work. It is essential to read the fine print and know what is covered so that you are not caught off guard if an accident does happen.
Claims for disability insurance are the primary and most important for employers. If an employee is injured and cannot work, the employer will have to cover their salary. It can be a financial burden on businesses, so having the right insurance is essential.
Disputes Inside the Workplace
Unfortunately, disputes between employees do happen. Employers need to know how to handle these situations.
Proper dispute resolution procedures should be in place, and employers should train managers to handle these situations. It will help to ensure that the dispute gets resolved quickly and fairly.
In addition, employers should also have a policy in place for dealing with harassment. It will ensure that employees feel safe in the workplace and that any incidents are dealt with swiftly.
Termination of Employment
Employers must also be aware of the laws regarding termination of employment. There are several things to consider, such as the notice period and severance pay.
These laws can vary from province to province, so consulting with an employment lawyer is important. They will be able to help employers understand their rights and responsibilities when it comes to terminating an employee.
It is crucial to ensure that you follow the correct procedure when terminating an employee. Doing so will help to avoid any legal complications down the road. It can also help to prevent any bad publicity for your business.
So, there you have it! Employers should be aware of the different legal aspects of running a business. By knowing the law and following it, employers can avoid any legal issues down the road.
This way, both the employer and the employee can be confident that they comply with the law. And most importantly, both parties can feel safe and secure in the workplace.
