What Is Required in an Employee Handbook?

Employers develop employee handbooks to state workplace policies. An employee handbook clearly states what an employer expects of an employee, and vice-versa. Having an employee handbook can potentially protect an employer from lawsuits from employees. However, employers are not required to have employee handbooks.

Work Schedules

The hours an employee is expected to work for his job may be detailed in the handbook, to help prevent schedule conflicts that may occur in the workplace.

Compensation

Pay and salary scales or policies are sometimes included in the employee handbook, as well as any bonuses or pay raise schedules that an employee is entitled to.

Attendance Policy

An attendance policy is significant, because it details the disciplinary actions (suspension or termination) for absences (excused and unexcused) and tardiness.

Workplace Safety

A section on workplace safety is important, detailing the safety practices an employer and employee must follow pertaining to the industry of the company.

Benefits

Benefits such as insurance, vacation time, sick time, paid holidays, tuition reimbursement, business travel and other fringe benefits should be included in the employee handbook.

Leave Policies

Leave policies (military leave, jury duty, family medical leave and others) should be detailed carefully in an employee handbook.

References

• NOLO: Why You Should Create an Employee Handbook
• U.S. Small Business Administration: How to Create an Employee Handbook