If you’re a business owner with employees, you need to put together an employee handbook. A handbook can help you better enforce workplace rules and regulations. Failing to have an employee policy in place can also lead to a litigation nightmare. That said, it can be difficult to determine what type of information should be included in an employee handbook. These are five things that should be part of any employee policy.
1. Terms of employment
It’s essential to classify your employees properly. Determine whether you intend to hire them as full-time or part-time employees or whether they are working in a contract position. Inform them that Colorado is an “at-will” employment state. This means they may be fired at any time unless the terms of their employment specify otherwise.
2. Harassment and anti-discrimination policies
You should strictly forbid harassment and discrimination in the workplace. It’s important to provide examples. This can help your employees better understand the terms of your policy. You will also want to establish a reporting process.
3. Employee conduct
Will you be performing drug tests? What about a dress code? Are firearms prohibited on workplace property? You should address these questions and identify any other concerns you may have.
4. Vacations
Set forth how employees will accrue vacation time and paid time off. You will also want a plan to address both planned and unplanned absences. If you are going to allow for bereavement leave, this is the place to make it known.
5. Termination
Put together a detailed process for terminating employees. You will want to consider whether you should have employees agree to an exit interview. You should also outline the process for paying out any unused vacation time. Establish whether you intend to offer any severance package.
Make sure your employees have reviewed the handbook
Your handbook should end with a section asking employees to acknowledge that they have reviewed and understood your workplace policies. A legal professional can help you put a handbook together or review a current handbook to address any potential shortcomings.