 An Employee Handbook doesn’t need to be long but it should be comprehensive and cover some basic information including Affirmative Action Policies in writing, as well as other important governmental programs/expectations. Many liability insurance carriers require written employment policies to be clearly spelled out.
Workers engaged in jobs that are considered high risk like construction, trucking, logging or if you regularly deal with Worker’s Compensation claims, it is important to have important parts of policies and procedures in writing. All employees should be provided with a copy of a handbook or policy manual and required to sign something that states “they have read and understood all policies, procedures, etc.†The employee should retain a copy of this form and MORE IMPORTANTLY; the original signed document should be placed in the employee’s personnel file.
There are a number of software programs which will walk you through creating a handbook or policy manual. Be aware, however, these programs cannot cover every industry. If you know certain rules, regulations, safety issues, concerns are likely to pop up in your industry, you should include them in your manual. If you aren’t sure what is required in your state or need help creating an employee manual contact a Work Comp Co-Op rep today. They will be glad to assist in all of your small business solutions designed to save time and money.
