Work is a big part of most people’s lives. Regardless of whether you love your career or you dread showing up to work every morning, there are certain workers’ rights that your employer must guarantee. You must be familiar with these, so you can protect yourself and demand what you are legally entitled to.
What are Employee Rights?
Employee rights are a set of principles defined by the
International Labor Organization, a United Nations agency that aims to
guarantee fair, healthy, and equitable work conditions for employees by setting
forth international labor standards through conventions and treaties, including
the Universal Declaration on Human Rights and the International Covenant on
Economic, Social and Cultural Rights.
Here are the top five keys you must know about worker’s rights:
1. Workplace Safety
The Occupational Safety and Health Act of 1970 went a long
way toward minimizing dangers in the American workplace. The legislation
created several specific safety provisions, including industry-specific
guidelines for construction, maritime, and agricultural jobs. The Occupational
Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) has the primary responsibility for
enforcing the law, although state agencies may also have a role in implementing
certain provisions.
At the Marcarian Law Firm, we are ready to investigate your case today Employee Rights Attorney.
2. Health Coverage
The Affordable Care Act promised to make health insurance a right
for workers in most medium- and large-size businesses. The Employer Shared
Responsibility Payment provision requires that companies with 50 or more
full-time workers offer them a minimal level of health insurance—or pay a
substantial penalty. To qualify as a “full-time” employee, an individual must
work at least 30 hours a week on average.
3. Unemployment Benefits
Even though each state has its unemployment insurance agency,
jobless benefits are offered through a joint federal-state program. States
manage payments to the unemployed but have to meet specific federal guidelines
regarding how they do so.
4. Whistleblower Protections
A patchwork of federal statutes helps protect Whistleblower
Attorney who reports their employer for violations of the law.
Whistleblower protections are often built into other pieces of legislation that
govern an industry. For example, the Clean Air Act safeguards those who
highlight environmental law violations, and the Consumer Product Safety
Improvement Act offers protection to those who uncover unlawful manufacturing
policies.
5. Employment-Based Discrimination
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was a watershed moment for
social justice in America, especially when it came to employment. Title VII of the
Act made it illegal for businesses to discriminate based on “race, color,
religion, sex, or national origin.
These rights are based on federal employment discrimination laws. If you are facing employment law or Labor and Employment Attorney issues, you need to speak to an attorney today.