What Are Your Rights as an Employee?

​We all have exclusive rights afforded by the federal government. Concerning employee rights in the workplace, several federal laws protect employees from mistreatment, such as the ones listed below.

1. Fair Pay
   The FLSA (Fair Labor Standards) of 1938 is the foundation of several laws regarding fair compensation. Under this mandate, employees that have an hourly wage are ensured a minimum salary along with eligibility for overtime pay after having worked more than forty hours in a week. Also, overtime is not only for those paid by the hour – but several states also require employees to receive extra overtime compensations for their earned commissions.
   
   
2. Workplace Safety
   The Department of Labor’s OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) enforced standards for the safety of the workplace, appropriate training, and reporting of work conditions that may deem unsafe or violating. The rules are for the prevention of hazardous work conditions that may lead to death or severe injury. The agency also guarantees that an employer cannot subject whistleblowers to retaliation for reporting violations of workplace safety.
   
   
3. Discrimination
   When it comes to workplace rights, employees having the freedom to enjoy a workplace that is free from discrimination is a broad topic with several laws to protect it. With the rampant running of discrimination in our society, these measures aim to maintain equality in the workplace. The 1964 Civil Rights Act Title VII prohibits discrimination based on national origin, religion, race, sex, or color. Individuals with disabilities also have the protection of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990. The said disabilities include:
   
      - Mental or physical impairments that may significantly limit one or more significant daily         life activities.
      - Having a record of the impairment.
      - Being regarded as to have the said impairment.
   
   
4. Sexual Harassment
   The Civil Rights Act Title VII also provides sexual harassment protections in the workplace that may lead to a hostile work environment. Such instances include sexual favor requests, unwelcome sexual advances, or any sexual or verbal conduct that may interfere with your ability to do your assigned task properly. It may create an offensive, hostile, or intimidating work environment. Additionally, sexual harassment also falls under workplace discrimination, and therefore, under the EEOC purview.

What comes with employee rights is having insurance. If ever you encounter injuries or hazards within the workplace, you are entitled to workplace compensation insurance. You can discuss with your employee the terms of the arrangement.

At Cornerstone Insurance Agency, we put our clients first by offering them policies that they can afford. Having insurance is a necessity nowadays and we're here to help you out. Learn more about our products and services by calling our agency at (888) 661-8831. You can also request a free quote by CLICKING HERE.