What Should Employers Include in Employee Handbooks?
For business owners in Atlanta, creating a comprehensive employee handbook is an important step when establishing clear policies and procedures in the workplace. A strongly crafted workbook can serve as both an effective communication tool and a legal safeguard. Below, our Atlanta employment law attorney explains the most important components to include in your handbook.
Foundational Elements to Include in Your Handbook
There are certain foundational elements you should include in the employee handbook. These include:
- Welcome message: Your welcome message should include your mission statement, and an overview of the company and its values. This can excite new employees about working for the business and sets the tone for the company’s culture.
- Employment policies: It is important to include information regarding Georgia’s at-will employment laws, equal employment opportunity policies, and a classification of full-time and part-time employees.
- Benefits and compensation: Your handbook should outline overtime policies, pay periods, eligibility for benefits, and the legal requirements for final paychecks.
- Conduct in the workplace: The handbook should also outline expectations for workplace conduct such as the dress code, anti-harassment and discrimination policies, and disciplinary procedures.
Georgia-Specific Laws
It is also important to include information about the employment laws specific to Georgia. These include:
- The minimum wage: While the state minimum wage in Georgia is $5.15 per hour, most employers must follow the federal minimum wage law, which is $7.25 per hour.
- Firearms in the workplace: While employers do have the right to ban firearms inside physical workspaces, they cannot prohibit employees from keeping guns inside of locked, privately-owned vehicles.
- Workers’ compensation laws: Outline the state laws regarding workers’ compensation benefits, such as reporting procedures and provide a “Panel of Physicians” that employees can choose from when receiving treatment.
Policies for Leave and Time Off
Policies regarding leave and time off are some of the most referenced sections of employee handbooks. It is important to include policies regarding the following:
- Paid time off: If you offer paid time off, include policies for sick leave, vacation, or a combination. Also outline procedures for requesting time off as well as carryover policies and accrual rates.
- FMLA: Include information regarding the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) such as eligibility requirements, procedures for requesting time off, and any policies specific to your business if you are not covered by FMLA.
- Bereavement leave: Include details regarding bereavement leave after the death of a relative, including eligibility requirements, the duration allowed, and any required documentation.
Our Employment Law Attorney in Atlanta Can Draft Your Handbook
Employee handbooks must be comprehensive and include state and federal laws, as well as policies customized to your specific company. It is not easy to know what to include, the legal requirements, and how to minimize your risk. At The Forsythe Law Firm, LLC, our Atlanta employment law attorney can ensure your policies comply with the employment laws that are rapidly changing, prevent unintentional contract violations, and protect your business from lengthy and costly litigation. Call us today at 404-476-2717 or contact us online to schedule a consultation and to get the legal help you need.
Source:
dol.georgia.gov/minimum-wage
