It has become imperative, and in many states a legal requirement, that employers implement programs to prevent violence at the workplace. The centerpiece of the prevention effort is to adopt a written policy on workplace violence. … [Read more...] about Model Policy: Workplace violence and office security
Workplace Safety
Office safety inspection checklist
The examples outlined below do not list all the possible items for office inspections. The best checklist for your workplace is one that has been developed for your specific needs. Whatever the format of the checklist, provide space for the inspectors' signatures and the date. Inspectors: Date: (O) Satisfactory (X) Requires … [Read more...] about Office safety inspection checklist
Manager Briefing: Extreme heat emergency protocols
Objective: To ensure the safety and well-being of staff and clients during extreme heat weather conditions through comprehensive planning, immediate response actions, and continuous monitoring. Preparation Emergency Plan Develop and/or update the office’s emergency plan to include protocols specific to extreme heat. Ensure all staff are familiar with the plan and … [Read more...] about Manager Briefing: Extreme heat emergency protocols
18 ways your firm can run afoul of the law and regulations
It's crucial to ensure that the law firm operates within the boundaries of the law and adheres to relevant regulations. Running afoul of the law can have serious consequences for the firm's reputation, finances, and even legal standing. Here are some, but not all, the ways a law office can get into trouble with the law and regulations: Unauthorized Practice of Law: … [Read more...] about 18 ways your firm can run afoul of the law and regulations
Model Policy: Office Room Temperature
The purpose of this policy is to establish guidelines for maintaining a comfortable and productive work environment for all staff and clients by regulating the temperature in the law office. By implementing this office temperature policy, the law office aims to maintain a comfortable and productive work environment for all staff and clients. Consistent communication, … [Read more...] about Model Policy: Office Room Temperature
Must employee notify our office of DUI?
QUESTION If one of our employees gets a DUI, do they have to notify us? ANSWER It depends. EXPLANATION There are at least four factors affecting whether the employee would have to come forward and tell you about the DUI? Your HR policies: What, if anything, do your current policies say about whether employees must notify you of their DUIs? Conviction or … [Read more...] about Must employee notify our office of DUI?
What, if anything, does OSHA require you to do to protect telecommuters?
While telecommuting is nothing new, the imperative for using it has never been greater. In addition to all the cost-saving, work-life balance, recruiting and hiring advantages, letting employees work from home during a pandemic has become a vital infection control measure. But it also poses significant compliance challenges, particularly in the realm of OSHA. After all, how are … [Read more...] about What, if anything, does OSHA require you to do to protect telecommuters?
Safety briefing – Preventing slips, trips, and falls
Dear [Practice Name] Team, Ensuring a safe and secure work environment is our top priority. To maintain a hazard-free workplace, it's essential that we all take proactive measures to prevent slips, trips, and falls. These incidents can lead to injuries that affect both individuals and overall productivity. Here are some guidelines to help you stay safe and prevent … [Read more...] about Safety briefing – Preventing slips, trips, and falls
Five essentials to support employee mental health and well-being
Events of the last four years have changed the nature of work for many and the relationship that some workers have with their jobs. The Surgeon General’s Framework for Mental Health & Well-Being in the Workplace outlines the foundational role that workplaces should play in promoting the health and well-being of workers and communities. With more than 160 million … [Read more...] about Five essentials to support employee mental health and well-being
7 tips for a safe winter commute
In the best of winters, driving to and from the office can be challenging. This winter is becoming downright dreadful in many parts of the country. Snow, ice, and cold weather can all create hazardous conditions on the road, and it is important to take extra precautions to ensure the safety of yourself and others. Here are tips for winter driving safety for you and your … [Read more...] about 7 tips for a safe winter commute