Practical HR Tips, News & Advice. Updated Daily.
Question: We have an employee whose essential functions require the use of their hands. They have requested an accommodation, and their physician has recommended a few weeks of time off until specific medical restrictions can be determined. What is our obligation to pay this employee during this doctor-recommended leave of absence? Answer: The leave of absence […]
Question: We have an employee who is getting a service animal and wants to know our policy on it. What can we ask in terms of why he needs the animal? What rights do we have in terms of allowing the dog on the job site? We operate heavy equipment at the job site and […]
It’s long been known that U.S. workers take fewer vacation days than their international counterparts. Fewer vacation days are typically offered by U.S. employers, and of those offered, many go unused. There are many reasons for this, not the least of which is the U.S. work culture in which employees often fear falling behind or […]
Over the last decade, workplace flexibility has become a hot topic and a priority for many employees. Now that workers have options like telecommuting, alternative scheduling, and freelancing, they’re looking for flexibility in their benefits, too.
Star Wars geekdom is strong in my family. I have it. My sons have it. My wife… well, she’s coming around. Like many my age, I grew up on the original Star Wars trilogy, idolizing the litany of iconic characters that include Han Solo, Luke Skywalker, Princess Leia, Chewy, Darth Vader, and so many others. […]
By Hadiya Roderique Even in the “Northern Exposure” zones of Canada, employees commonly have access to the Internet at work. Many use the Internet for personal reasons during work time. Many employers are concerned about the loss of productivity resulting from excessive personal use of the Internet. A number of employers have attempted to characterize […]
Like abuse of alcohol or illicit drugs, the nation’s growing opioid epidemic is presenting workplace challenges. The current opioid epidemic has been called the worst drug crisis in American history, reaching every corner of society, including workplaces both large and small. This epidemic involves the use of prescription opioid (pain) medications and illicit drugs, including […]
Balancing parenting and a career is almost magical. So many parents balancing a career would say, “I don’t know how I do it, but I do.” Add working from home to the mix, and working parents really have a challenge on their hands. Some of your employees may be thriving in this new norm, while […]
With many families facing uncertainty involving their children’s schools, questions about the applicability of the Emergency Family and Medical Leave Expansion Act (EFMLEA) provided under the Families First Coronavirus Response Act (FFCRA) continue to come up.
There has long been a certain stigma tied to being laid off from a job. Sure, it’s not quite the same as getting fired for cause, but it’s still not great to be seen as expendable when staffing cuts are required. But that stigma might be starting to break down in the face of employers […]