Practical HR Tips, News & Advice. Updated Daily.
The National Labor Relations Act (NLRA) allows employees, both union and non-union, to engage in “concerted activities for the purpose of mutual aid or protection.” This includes an employee’s right to have a union representative present at an investigatory meeting that the employee reasonably believes could result in discipline.
by Craig M. Borowski The holiday season is almost upon us. Employers often use this time of year to show their appreciation for employees’ hard work and to celebrate with them in the workplace. Unfortunately, however, even an office party planned with the best of intentions can create legal liability for your company or possibly […]
by Steven L. Brenneman With a mayoral election looming and opponents challenging him from the left, Chicago Mayor Rahm Emanuel pushed through a Chicago ordinance that will gradually increase the minimum wage to $13 per hour by 2019. Currently, the state minimum wage is $8.25 per hour. The new Chicago ordinance, passed December 2, establishes […]
Even though women account for more than 50% of the U.S. population, gender diversity remains a key goal of many HR departments and recruiting initiatives. This is particularly true when it comes to leadership positions, in which women are even less well represented.
If you receive a sexual harassment complaint, you must promptly investigate and impose corrective action to stop the harassment. But it’s less clear what you should do if you can’t substantiate the complaint. A new Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals decision focuses on how far you need to go in this situation.
Fed/OSHA continues to move ahead with its controversial ergonomics proposal, despite pending legislation that would require more time for public comment before the rules are finalized. OSHA’s hearings on the proposal wrapped up May 12 after testimony from over 1,000 witnesses, and the agency expects to publish final regulations by year’s end. But the controversy […]
The California Occupational Safety and Health Administration has published tips for workers and employers to keep in mind during heat waves. The new materials include an advisory for employers that explains the duty to take steps necessary to prevent heat-related illness, plus fact sheets for workers to help them recognize and respond to symptoms of […]
Do we have to reimburse uniform costs?