The beginning of the year is a great time to take a fresh look at your employee handbook, and make any necessary additions or changes to your existing handbook. A good rule of thumb is to have your employee handbook reviewed and updated yearly.

An employee handbook details the rules, policies and procedures of your company.   It typically covers a variety of topics such as safety and security, harassment, conduct standards, discipline, and communication policies.

Here are 5 reasons to review and update your employee handbook:

1. New and Changed Laws – Rules, regulations and laws are frequently changing, and new ones are regularly being issued.  It is critical that your company is complying with all the rules which are applicable to it.  Minimum wage, family leave laws, technology, and employee classifications are some topics that must be constantly updated in your employee handbook in order to avoid problems or potential litigation.
2. Time Gaps – Has it been over a year since you last reviewed your employee handbook?  If it is, then it is time for your company to take action.  It is recommended that your human resources department stay current on the laws and regulations and frequently update your handbook.  We all know however about the increased demands on HR departments these days.  Therefore, it may be prudent for you to give this project to an employment law attorney. 
3. Internal Changes – Has your company made any recent major internal changes, perhaps due to a restructuring, new ownership, or executive changes? If you rebranded, reorganized, or refocused your company, updates to your employee handbook may be necessary so that all employees are on the same page.
4. Morale – Having a completed and updated employee handbook sends a positive message to your employees.  It demonstrates that you care about and recognize their needs by taking the time to lay out and regularly update the policies and procedures of your organization. 
5. Compliance – An updated employee handbook is one less compliance topic for you to have to worry about as an employer.  It will serve as protection and proof for you during the course of an audit or investigation.   

Wolfson and Klein-Wolfson, PLLC would be happy to assist you with your employee handbook needs.  We can draft a new handbook, or review your current handbook, to make sure that it covers the applicable local, state and Federal laws, rules and regulations.