Employment law is a legal regulation that ensures the employer-employee relationship is in compliance with the law. Employment law states when to hire and accept a job offer. The law also;
- Restricts discrimination
- Ensures workers’ safety
- Ensures employees receive economic support
- Encourages work consistency by minimizing organizational disputes
An employer needs to stay abreast with the changing employment laws and follow the rules accordingly. Abiding by the employment law not only protects the interest of employees but also keeps you and your company away from common complaints and lawsuits.
The employer-employee relationship laws require an employer to follow the following rules;
- Equal treatment: Employers must ensure that all employees are not discriminated against in any way and receive equal treatment.
- Employee leave: The employment law relationship acts require you to give your employee a maximum of 12 weeks of leave if they have served your company for more than six months. You must listen to the reasons for requesting a break and make informed decisions without being bias.
- Equal gender pay: The Equal Pay Act requires that both male and female employees must receive equal pay if holding the same position. It is wise you keep the payment records for employees for proof.
- Immigration law: under any circumstance should an employer hire an illegal immigrant. You must verify their eligibility for such employees to work and fill out a 1-9 form.
- Compensation pay: The Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) has established a minimum wage that workers should receive. Employers should also compensate their workers with overtime pay if they work for more than 40 hours in a week.
- Employee safety in the workplace: Creating a peaceful working environment that is not hazardous to your employees contribute significantly to increased productivity. Your workers will feel safe hence improve motivation.
By following the above rules, the employee and employer relationship will improve. It will be easier to communicate with your workers, thus minimize disputes. Note that you will not satisfy all employees. Some of them will go the extra mile and file lawsuits against you. Remember to remain calm and try to find a solution to the problem. After all, employees have a right to sue if they feel abused.
While adhering to employment laws, do not forget the labor laws if you have employees belonging to a labor union. Labor and employment law go hand in hand to manage all employees successfully. These laws aim at protecting the workers’ interests. While labor laws protect the interest of collective employees, employment laws focus on the individual employee.
Know how to differentiate aspects of employment laws. That way, you won’t find yourself in a confusing situation. To ensure compliance with the law, you may consider hiring legal employment professional. They will help in advising your staff accordingly so that they do not violate the law. They will also stay abreast and let you know where you need to make changes. In case of any legal complaint, they will offer guidance where required.