Create and Maintain an Employee Handbook

Key Points

  • When creating an employee handbook, an employer needs to determine the purpose of the employee handbook as well as which subjects, topics and policies it will include based on legal requirements, business needs and conduct expected in the workplace.
  • The handbook policies should contain clear and unambiguous language to provide employees with a reasonable understanding of workplace policies and procedures. The employer should ensure that the handbook is kept up to date in light of continuing legal developments that affect workplace policies.
  • The employer should distribute the handbook to all employees who should be required to sign a written acknowledgment that they have reviewed the contents of the handbook and consent to its terms. The employer should train employees and supervisors on all relevant policies and procedures.
  • The handbook should contain a disclaimer that all employment is at-will and the employer reserves the right to change, amend or modify the handbook policies at its discretion.

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