A small business needs clear workplace rules. Without them, employees may not know what the company expects. Owners may also struggle to handle the same issue in a fair and consistent way. An employee handbook puts key workplace policies in one place.
Cover the basics
An employee handbook should explain the rules that apply to daily work. The exact policies will depend on the business and its employees. Common topics include:
- Work hours, attendance and timekeeping
- Pay schedules and benefits
- Workplace conduct
- Anti-discrimination and anti-harassment
- Safety and injury reporting
- Leave and time-off
- Remote work and technology use
- Company property and confidential information
- Social media and electronic communications
- Discipline and termination
- At-will employment disclaimer
Each policy should be clear and match the way the business operates. Businesses should avoid promises they do not intend – or cannot guarantee – to keep.
Follow Ohio and federal law
Ohio businesses must consider both state and federal employment laws when creating workplace policies. Under Ohio law, certain employment practices must meet state requirements. Federal law also sets rules for areas such as wages, discrimination and employee rights. Ohio handbooks should include clear language stating that the handbook does not create a contract of employment and that either party may end the employment relationship at any time.
Some requirements depend on the size of the business or the type of employees involved. A policy that works for one company may not work for another. Businesses should also avoid handbook rules that limit rights protected under applicable law.
Federal labor law also affects certain policies. Handbook rules on workplace conduct, confidentiality, and employee communications must be drafted carefully to avoid limiting employees’ rights to discuss wages and working conditions with coworkers.
Keep policies current
An employee handbook should not remain unchanged for years. Businesses may add new benefits, change work practices or adopt new technology. Laws and workplace requirements can also change.
Review the handbook when the business makes major changes and update policies when needed. Employees should receive clear notice of important changes.
A useful handbook gives employees clear expectations and helps owners apply workplace rules consistently. Keeping it accurate and current can help prevent confusion before workplace problems arise.
