Handbook Policies to Revisit

By ThePayrollFactory
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In today’s constantly changing and fast-paced workplace, it is recommended that all business owners revisit their employee handbooks every so often and consider updating them to reflect current trends. The idea that employee handbooks are just boring stacks of basic policies can unfortunately lead many businesses to become stagnant in their routines. Because of this, many forget to employ creative and strategic policies that can provide important benefits to the company.

To avoid your handbook becoming outdated, consider focusing on at least the following policies:

  • Employment Classifications – The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has been increasing its compliance enforcement efforts, and employers need to understand how to initiate proper assessment in various areas of wage and hour laws. Examples include W-2 employee vs. 1099 independent contractor, exempt vs. non-exempt and full-time vs. part-time.
  • Health & Safety – Another area of DOL attention involves businesses maintaining a safe and productive workplace environment. The federal Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA) requires covered employers to maintain a workplace that is free of hazards and having specific policies in place is an important part of the process.
  • Social Media – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and YouTube continue to rise in popularity, even more so due to smart phones. Because of this, employers need to remain mindful of how their employees are using the internet and how they are promoting your business and the public image of the company they are putting out there for the world to see. Social media can cross barriers between confidentiality and privacy rights as well,  so it’s a good idea to examine the specific laws in your state to make sure you’re not in violation when implementing any policies relating to social media.
  • Telecommuting – Telecommuting can be used as an important recruitment and retention tool, and more companies are allowing more workers to work remotely more often.
  • Benefits – Whether trying to stay on top of various health care reform laws, apply family medical leave updates, or provide vacation and sick leave time-off, it is vital for employers to ensure that their benefits-related policies remain current.

To make sure your employee handbook is up to speed, we recommend conducting a thorough review of it at least once a year with the guidance of an experienced HR Professional. The Payroll Factory® also offers an employee handbook service that helps to ensures compliance with various federal and state labor laws. Contact us today for more information!

  • Jason Saul, Director of Sales
  • 610-644-4569
  • jason@prfusa.com

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The Payroll Factory®
Payroll processing for small business owners. Focus on what you do best and leave the rest to us.
  • 18 E Lancaster Ave, Malvern, PA 19355
  • 610-644-4569

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