Archives

Chronic Conditions—Frustrating, Annoying? Yes, But You Must Accommodate

One of the most challenging tasks in HR is dealing with lifelong illnesses or chronic conditions under the FMLA and ADA. But you have no choice, says Attorney Patricia Eyres. What Is a Chronic Condition? What is a “Chronic Condition” for purposes of leaves, accommodations, and performance management? Eyres says that it is a disease […]

The Angel, the Saint, and the FLSA

In the February 13th issue of the DOL News Brief, we learned that in the 1930s, two iconic figures of the times had an impact on the Federal Labor Standards Act. The “angel” was Shirley Temple, America’s curly-haired darling, who lifted the nation’s spirits during the Depression and earned, says the article (quoting the Washington […]

New Affirmative Action Regs Puzzle and Mystify

Some organizations have decided that the new affirmative action regulations will be so burdensome that they are working their way out of contractor status, says attorney David Fortney. “We’re tired of being hassled,” they say, and they are wrapping up their government contracts.

Building an ethical culture: What HR needs to know

Human resources professionals spend a lot of time working to create a respectful work environment. Much of that effort is necessary to stay in compliance with antidiscrimination and other workplace laws, but a true focus on ethics goes beyond legal compliance.  Susan Alevas, an attorney, management consultant, and president of Alevas Consulting Group, Inc., recently […]

When is Obesity a Disability?

Recently, the American Medical Association (AMA) has declared obesity to be a disease. This has implications for employers, since obesity may now also be considered a disability in certain circumstances. table style=”padding: 15px;” align=”right”> When is Obesity a Disability? To see when it might be possible that obesity may be declared a disability, let's take […]

Is Obesity a Disease?

In June 2013, the American Medical Association officially voted to classify obesity as a disease. While this classification doesn’t have legal weight, it provides support for individuals arguing that obesity should be considered a protected ADA disability—which could open the door for discrimination claims. Let’s take a look at the rationale behind this change. Obesity […]

Surveillance and Secrets—Managing Social Media Risks

[Go here for S’s 1 and 2] S #3. Surveillance or “Snooping” What’s the Risk? When you monitor employee’s social media activity, you run two risks, says Yip: Damage to morale. The company may call it surveillance, but the employees will view it as snooping, and they won’t like it. The vast majority of employees […]

Train Workers To Leave Job Dangers At Work

Some of the dangers you face at work can follow you home … if you don’t take certain precautions. Hazardous “hitchhikers” can endanger the health of small children and other family members in your home. Yesterday, we listed hazardous chemical agents that can inadvertently come home with you. Here are more. Hazardous Biological Agents Chemicals […]