The workplace may be challenging, and it is easy to feel like you are on your own while you navigate the complexities of your employer-employee relationship. This is especially true for new employees, who may not be aware of their rights. However, every employee has essential rights that protect them from unfair treatment and promote a safe and healthy working environment. In this Employee Survival Guide, we look at four work rights you may not have realized you have.
Your rights as a job applicant.
What many people are unaware of is that job candidates have the same rights as employees even before they are hired. Although it may appear contradictory, these rights include the right to be free of discrimination based on age, gender, color, nationality, or religion throughout the hiring process. Unfortunately, these variables have already been shown to impede job eligibility, which is why employee rights have been extended to people outside of the organization.
To avoid unfair rejections, a potential employer cannot ask a job candidate specific family-related inquiries throughout the recruiting process, for example.
Your right to privacy.
Your employer cannot make you divulge confidential information with them or your coworkers. This implies that employers cannot ask questions such as:
- Religion
- Marital status:
- Sexual orientation.
- Age
- Political opinions, unless particularly required for professional purposes.
Your right to receive a contract of employment.
Employers do not always provide employees with employment contracts although they are an essential element of the job.
While employers are not legally required to give a contract, within two months of commencing a position, an employee should obtain a written statement outlining the fundamental basics as well as the essential terms and conditions of employment.
These would contain the job title, estimated hours of work, monthly remuneration, paid vacation and sick leave entitlements, details of any applicable pension scheme, minimum notice period, disciplinary process, and grievance reporting procedures.
Your right to reasonable disability accommodation.
The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) mandates companies to provide reasonable accommodations to help employees with disabilities in the workplace. These adjustments must be particular and relevant to the individual’s requirements while not causing an excessive burden for the employer.
Reasonable accommodations include modifications in work hours or workplace design, as well as supplying adaptable equipment as needed.
These are only a handful of the numerous rights that employees have. Knowing your rights is vital for avoiding unfair treatment and having a great work experience. If you suspect your employer is breaching your rights, contact an employment lawyer for assistance.
