By Mike O'Brien bio Employers may be wondering how a Biden administration will affect workplace laws. Prior to the election, Biden’s campaign website gives some clues as to his priorities in this area. Biden lists the failure to pay minimum wage and overtime pay, forcing off-the-clock work, and misclassifying workers as problems resulting in billions of dollars a year in wage … [Read more...] about How HR regulations could change under Biden administration
OSHA
The workplace in 2020: political talk, COVID-19 violence, executive order
By Mike O’Brien bio Don’t forget labor relations rules when employees talk politics at work During this month’s contentious election season—with a highly polarized American electorate—many employers may be grappling with problems arising from workplace political discussions. Research by the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) has indicated that more than a quarter … [Read more...] about The workplace in 2020: political talk, COVID-19 violence, executive order
Are employers responsible/liable for an employee’s home ergonomics, safety and expenses?
By Lynne Curry bio Question: The work from home shift that started with COVID-19 continues as many employees and their employers find the arrangement works well. What is the employer’s responsibility/liability for workplace ergonomics and safety when the home becomes the workplace? Does the employer need to compensate the employer for expenses in upgrading Wifi and getting a … [Read more...] about Are employers responsible/liable for an employee’s home ergonomics, safety and expenses?
Can you require your medical office workers to get a flu shot?
Vaccination is the most effective defense against flu viruses. So it behooves you to ensure that your medical office workers get flu shots every year at the start of every flu season. But what if your staff members neglect or just plain refuse to be vaccinated? Can you require them to get a flu shot? Bottom Line: Yes, a mandatory flu vaccination policy is legally justifiable … [Read more...] about Can you require your medical office workers to get a flu shot?
When an opioid crisis hits your medical practice
By Lynne Curry bio The first time you saw "Bill" appear to nod off during a staff meeting, you pulled him aside after the meeting. When you asked if he was okay, he said he was. You gave him the benefit of the doubt because he'd worked for you for three years and been a good employee. You knew he'd recently gone through a divorce and thought maybe he'd had a hard … [Read more...] about When an opioid crisis hits your medical practice