Supplemental materials for LEAP 2025 session The Power of the NLRB: Protected Concerted Activities, Handbooks and Organizing
A good employee handbook is one of your most important tools for avoiding workplace disputes and staying out of court. However, a poorly drafted handbook is worse than having no handbook at all.
Use the following questions to analyze the thoroughness and reliability of your employee handbook:
□ 1. Does your handbook clearly state that it is not to be considered a contract in any way and that you reserve the right to change it?
□ 2. If your handbook lists offenses warranting discipline, including discharge, does it make clear that those listed are merely illustrative rather than exhaustive?
□ 3. Does your handbook encourage employees to bring their complaints to their union or to management?
□ 4. Does your handbook make clear that you don’t tolerate any type of harassment?
□ 5. Does it provide procedures for addressing harassment complaints?
□ 6. Do the benefits policies contained in the handbook comply with federal and state laws?
□ 7. Do all employees receive copies of the handbook after each revision?
□ 8. Do you have a receipt form that employees sign when they receive the handbook or any revisions of it?
□ 9. Is your handbook up to date in all areas?
□ 10. Does your attorney review your handbook regularly to see that it contains nothing in conflict with federal and state laws or local regulations?
□ 11. Is it written clearly and simply?
□ 12. Is the language respectful of employees?
□ 13. Are the rules described in the handbook enforced in an even-handed manner?
□ 14. Do you make sure that your employees read the handbook?
□ 15. Is it free of political statements, including the company’s opinions regarding labor organizing?
If you answered “No” to any of these questions, you should review your company policies and the way they are communicated to your workforce.
Interested in joining HR Employment Law Advisor? For a limited time, LEAP 2025 attendees can get an annual membership at 30% off at https://www.hremploymentlawadvisor.com/leap30.
