Human resources (HR) is often associated purely with administrative tasks. While HR is involved with this, its role is much more comprehensive.
HR plays a key role in legal compliance, employment policies, risk assessments and preventing reputational damage. Below are some important points to remember.
Protecting your business from legal risks
HR ensures that your company follows federal and state employment laws. These include wage regulations, workplace safety rules and anti-discrimination laws. If your business fails to comply, you could face costly legal action. HR professionals help draft policies, train managers and handle disputes before they become legal issues.
Ensuring fair hiring and employment practices
Employment laws protect workers from unfair treatment. Your HR team must enforce equal employment opportunity (EEO) standards, prevent discrimination, and manage accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). They also ensure compliance with Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) rules on wages, overtime and working hours. Without proper HR oversight, hiring mistakes can lead to serious legal problems.
Workplace disputes and terminations
HR is responsible for handling employee disputes and ensuring terminations are legally sound. Wrongful termination claims can be expensive, especially if proper procedures aren’t followed. HR professionals guide businesses through progressive discipline policies, documentation and fair dismissal processes. This helps prevent retaliation claims and wrongful termination lawsuits.
HR is about much more than administration. It’s about protecting your company from risks, particularly in terms of discrimination and wrongful termination lawsuits. Investing in a strong HR team is worthwhile. Seeking legal guidance can help ensure your HR department is set up for success.