Employment laws play a crucial role in defining a workplace. These laws ensure that each employee and employer adheres to the given standards and discourage any act against the law. Unfortunately, many employees face issues in their workplace.
For instance, several workplace sexual harassment cases get filed each day. In such cases, it would be most helpful for the victim to be aware of Charlotte employment law. Every employee and employer must be mindful of the basic employment laws. It could help prevent unwanted instances and give them an upper hand in dealing with legal matters related to the workplace.
What are employment law basics?
- Safety
Each employer must ensure the safety of employees and other professionals in the workplace. Many laws and acts, such as the Occupational Health and Safety Act, mandate the employer to provide a safe workplace. Ensuring safety factors might also include compliance training for managers or employers.
- Discrimination & Harassment
Employers or managers must refuse to hire, fire, or limit employment opportunities by discrimination. Any discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin is against the law.
Workplace harassment complaints must be addressed as a priority by the employer or the manager in a workplace. It is within each employee’s right to take action against any discrimination or harassment encountered in the workplace.
- Protected Leave Laws
Employees eligible for leaves can take time off from the workplace as per the basic employment laws. The Family and Medical Leave Act permits employees to take leaves when giving birth to a child, adopting a child, caring for themself, or looking after their family members in difficult times.
An employee might also be entitled to qualify for exigency leave if they are called to active duty in the armed forces. Employers or managers must not penalize in any way for taking protected leaves.
- Compensation & Overtime
Employers might require employees to work overtime when facing a deadline or a time-sensitive project. The employer must keep track of how many employees have worked overtime. Similarly, each employee will be within their right to obtain compensation if they are eligible for the same under various laws and acts.
- State and Local Laws
Many cities and states have similar state and local laws and regulations about employment. Most of these laws are stricter than federal laws. As a result, managers and employers must be aware of various local and state laws. The employer must comply with each federal, state, or local law to improve their workplace. An employee can contact an attorney in Charlotte to understand the basics of employment laws.