Employment policies designed to maximize productivity may help businesses increase their profitability. Some policies, if not explained properly, may also lead to trouble. If you recently launched a new company and have not yet set up a new-hire training program, an employee handbook may help protect you from worker lawsuits.
As noted by Business Management Daily, a policy that might cause an issue relates to at-will employment. The policy enables you to inform workers that their employment may end at any time and without cause. A clear description of the policy in an employee handbook may help prevent potential legal issues from developing after a termination.
Employees’ hours and overtime pay
Your company has a need to employ workers who show up on time and remain efficient. Handbooks typically outline work schedules and the issue of overtime. As noted by the U.S. Department of Labor, if non-salaried employees work more than 40 hours per week, federal law requires paying them at an overtime rate for the additional hours. An employee handbook may clarify that overtime does not automatically begin when an employee works more than eight hours on any given day.
Policies described in handbooks generally explain how your company keeps track of employees’ hours and how often they receive paychecks. Handbooks may also explain how your employees can dispute their paychecks’ hours or wages with management.
Company-owned equipment
Your handbook may explain the proper use of company equipment. To prevent employees from wasting computer time, you may include policies prohibiting the use of company email for personal communications. An employee handbook may also outline rules and penalties related to various issues.
With the correct verbiage, your handbook may help to create an efficient workforce. In addition to containing policies and procedures for employees to follow while at work, your handbook may also help avoid potential lawsuits.