Yearly employment law checkup: 5 items to review now

The new year is a good time for employers to review and update employment practices. Proper policies and practices will reduce risks of costly employment claims. Here are some items to review:

1. Drug testing procedures.

2. Job duties for salaried-exempt employees.

3. Pay practices for hourly employees.

4. Policies and procedures on discrimination, harassment and retaliation.

5. Management training on handling employee reports and requests.

Companies that have made changes affecting employees (such as restructuring, policy revisions, etc.) in the last year should consult legal counsel for a more extensive audit of current human resources policies and practices.

– Elaina Smiley, Meyer, Unkovic & Scott, es@muslaw.com