Staying up to date with employment law is a critical part of running a successful business, however, it’s often overlooked by business owners who find themselves overwhelmed with keeping up with changing employment laws and entitlements on top of their other daily business tasks.

Maintaining current knowledge of these laws is important for protecting the rights of employees and safeguarding the business from potential litigation that could arise from ignorance or non-compliance with the law. Fortunately, with the expertise of employment lawyers, business owners can ensure they’re following the law and adopting the best practices to maintain a compliant and peaceful workplace. If you’re not well-versed in employment law, this article will explore five key areas of employment law that every business needs to know about.

Employment Contracts & Agreements

Drafting clear, concise and comprehensive employment contracts is fundamental to grounding employees and ensuring that everyone in the organisation understands what’s required of them. These contracts outline the terms of employment, including job duties, salary, benefits and termination procedures. Employment lawyers can help ensure that these contracts comply with local and national regulations, preventing misunderstandings and disputes that could arise from poorly drafted agreements.

Workplace Health & Safety

Health and safety regulations are designed to prevent accidents and illness in the workplace. Businesses must understand their obligations under occupational health and safety laws. Regular training, proper equipment and a culture of safety are essentials that employment lawyers can advise business owners on if they don’t already have a good grasp of OH&S laws. By doing so, businesses can minimise the potential for costly compensation claims and show their employees that they care.

Discrimination & Harassment

Workplace discrimination and harassment can lead to a toxic environment as well as some very real and permanently damaging legal repercussions. Employment law protects individuals from being treated unfavourably due to personal attributes such as age, gender, race and sexual orientation. Employment lawyers play a pivotal role in advising on policies, training and procedures to ensure compliance with anti-discrimination laws and to foster a culture of respect and equality in any organisation they work with.

Unfair Dismissal & Redundancies

When the time comes to dismiss an employee or make their position redundant, businesses must act in accordance with the law. Unfair dismissal claims can be costly and damage a company’s reputation by creating a sense of distrust amongst employees. Employment lawyers can effectively guide businesses through the legal requirements when it comes to employee dismissal, including appropriate notice periods and severance packages, ensuring that any termination is lawful and fair.

Employee Rights & Entitlements

Understanding employee rights is fundamental to maintaining a lawful and ethical workplace. This includes entitlements such as leave, minimum wage and maximum working hours. Employees are also entitled to certain protections and benefits, which vary by location and industry. Employment lawyers are adept at navigating these complexities, helping businesses to uphold their legal obligations and protect themselves from potential litigation.

Conclusion

By staying informed and compliant in these five areas of employment law, businesses can reduce the risk of legal challenges, foster a positive workplace culture and focus on growth and success. Employment lawyers can help businesses to navigate the ever-changing landscape of employment law, ensuring they can fulfil their legal obligations.