10 Key Employment Rights Every Employee Should Know About
What are your employment rights in the workplace?
As an employee, it is important to understand your rights in the workplace. By knowing your employment rights, you can better advocate for yourself and ensure that your employer is fulfilling their legal obligations. In this blog post, we will outline 10 key employment rights that all employees should know about, including those employees protected under the Equality Act 2010.
The right to a safe working environment
All employees have the right to a safe working environment. Employers are responsible for providing a workplace that is free from hazards and ensuring that employees have the necessary training and equipment to perform their job safely.
Protection from discrimination
Employees have the right to be protected from discrimination based on their race, gender, age, disability, religion, or sexual orientation. Employers must ensure that all employees are treated fairly and are not subject to discriminatory practices.
The right to a fair wage
Employees have the right to be paid a fair wage for their work. This includes receiving minimum wage and overtime pay as required by law.
The right to privacy: Employees have the right to privacy in the workplace. Employers cannot monitor employee communications or conduct searches without a legitimate reason.
The right to reasonable accommodations
Employees with disabilities have the right to reasonable accommodations to perform their job. Employers are required to make reasonable accommodations unless doing so would cause undue hardship.
The right to a safe and healthy workplace
Employees have the right to a workplace that is free from health hazards. Employers must comply with health and safety regulations and provide necessary training to employees.
The right to family and medical leave
Employees have the right to take unpaid leave for certain family and medical reasons, such as caring for a newborn or a family member with a serious illness.
Protection from retaliation
Employees have the right to be protected from retaliation for reporting illegal activity or filing a complaint against their employer. Retaliation can include termination, demotion, or other adverse actions.
The right to a workplace free from harassment
Employees have the right to a workplace that is free from harassment. This includes sexual harassment, racial harassment, and other forms of harassment.
The right to form a union
Employees have the right to form a union and engage in collective bargaining with their employer. Employers cannot retaliate against employees for participating in union activities.
It is important to note that employment rights may vary depending on the country or state you are located in. It is recommended that employees familiarise themselves with their local labour laws to ensure they are fully informed of their rights.
Expectations as an Employer in the Workplace
Employers have a set of expectations from their employees in the workplace that form the foundation of a productive and harmonious working environment. First and foremost, punctuality and reliability are highly valued traits.
Employers expect their staff to arrive on time for work and meet deadlines consistently. This commitment to punctuality demonstrates respect for colleagues and clients, helping maintain a positive reputation for the company.
Additionally, employees are expected to show initiative and proactiveness in their roles. Employers appreciate individuals who take ownership of their tasks, identify opportunities for improvement, and contribute creative solutions to challenges. This proactive attitude not only enhances individual job satisfaction but also contributes to the overall success and growth of the organisation.
Another essential expectation from UK employers is professionalism and respect in all interactions. This includes treating colleagues, clients, and superiors with courtesy and consideration. Maintaining a respectful and inclusive workplace culture is crucial, and employees are expected to avoid discriminatory behaviour and embrace diversity.
Moreover, employers value effective communication skills, both written and verbal, as clear and concise communication is vital for efficient collaboration and successful project execution.
Lastly, employees are expected to adhere to the company’s policies and procedures, including health and safety guidelines, to ensure a safe and compliant working environment. Overall, in the UK, a strong work ethic, professionalism, and a commitment to the company’s values and goals are key expectations that employers have of their employees in the workplace.
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Employment law advice and support with Catherine Herries-Smith Solicitors
Knowing your employment rights is essential to ensure you are treated fairly in the workplace. The rights outlined above are just a few of the many protections available to employees. If you believe that your employer is not fulfilling their legal obligations, it is important to speak up and seek legal advice if necessary. By standing up for your rights, you can help create a safer, fairer workplace for all employees.
If you are concerned you employment rights may have been undermined, or you would like advice about your workplace dispute, get in touch with Catherine Herries-Smith Solicitors today. With years of experience in employment law, we support both employers and employees to ensure they have a safe and happy workplace environment that benefits everyone. We look forward to supporting you in your workplace soon.