FAQs on Employee Handbook Template and Dallas Laws
The process of writing or updating an employee handbook can be an onerous and complex task for businesses of all sizes3 min read
The process of writing or updating an employee handbook can be an onerous and complex task for businesses of all sizes. An employee handbook template should be tailored to comply with local and federal laws, as well as the unique culture of the workplace. As such, it is essential to source counsel knowledgeable in Dallas labor laws to ensure the content of your manual is legally sound.
This article will provide a comprehensive overview that addresses common questions regarding the writing or updating of an employee handbook template in accordance with Dallas regulations.
What is an Employee Handbook?
An employee handbook (also referred to as an employee manual, policy manual, or employee policy manual) is a collection of written procedures and policies which provide protection to both the employer and the employee.
Employee handbooks typically include information about the company benefits and entitlements, payroll and tax policies, job expectations and descriptions, and satisfactory behavior and work habits. They also provide a comprehensive outline of the company’s policies and procedures related to disability, harassment, termination, disciplinary action, and more.
Who Benefits from an Employee Handbook?
An employee handbook is beneficial to both employers and employees. On the one hand, an employee’s professional actions are acknowledged and associated outcomes are identified. This can minimize a company’s exposure to legal and financial risk through the establishment of established policies and procedures.
On the other hand, a written handbook allows for the codification of internal policy, giving the employee an unambiguous source to refer to, which can curtail opinions on how the business should be handled in the workplace. A company handbook also ensures the individual conduct of the employer is in strict alignment with the federal and state labor laws.
Why is an Up-to-Date Employee Handbook Necessary?
The laws related to the operation of a business and related labor matters can often change, therefore, the employee handbook must be updated regularly to stay in compliance with current regulations. It is also important to ensure the business practices outlined in the employee handbook affirm the organization’s stance on contemporary labor issues, such as gender discrimination, management of medical leave, off-the-clock work, and more.
An employee handbook that doesn’t stay current with changing laws or doesn’t reflect the company’s practices or values may create more legal issues than it solves.
What Should be Included in an Employee Handbook Template?
When creating an employee handbook, Texas businesses should keep in mind that the contents of the document may depend on the types of legal issues you face most. Here are several components that Texas businesses may consider when creating their unique employee handbook template:
Company Culture and Values
Equal Employment and Non-Discrimination
Leave Policies
Pay and Benefits
Harassment and Discrimination Prevention
Employee Technology Use & Cybersecurity
Businesses should also review current handbooks regularly to ensure compliance with ever-changing laws. Hiring experienced legal counsel is the most secure way to protect the business’s interests and ensure proper implementation of its policies.
How Can I Implement an Employee Handbook?
Having your employees read and adhere to a company’s written employee handbook can be the trickiest part of the development process. It is important to remember that employees must acknowledge the policies and procedures outlined in the handbook in writing.
Once the handbook is completed, employers should provide new and current employees with a hard copy of the handbook. Employees should then sign an acknowledgment form to confirm that they have received and are familiar with the policies and procedures therein. After employees have agreed to abide by the handbook, their understanding of the handbook should be maintained by providing periodic training and refresher courses.
Can An UpCounsel Attorney Help Me Construct an Employee Handbook Template?
Creating a compliant and comprehensive employee handbook can be made much easier with the assistance of experienced and knowledgeable attorneys. UpCounsel offers straightforward solutions to companies that are looking to develop an employee handbook.
The UpCounsel community is comprised of experienced attorneys armed with the knowledge and expertise to help businesses stay in compliance with local and national regulations. Upon engaging UpCounsel’s services, employers can be assured that any changes to labor legislation or new business norms will be factored into their employee handbooks.
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