Distributing Company Policies
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[font size="1" color="#FF0000"]LAST EDITED ON 09-25-02 AT 04:23PM (CST)[/font][p]We are one of a few companies that do not distribute a policy manual. The policies are written, but are closly held by upper management. Policies are explained to employees as needed. Upper management is adamant in its desire not to distribute.
Must we give an employee copies of Company policies if asked?
Thanks for your help and insight.
Must we give an employee copies of Company policies if asked?
Thanks for your help and insight.
Comments
Some ABSOLUTELY have to be distributed to employees -- like an FMLA policy and anti-harassment/anti-discrimination policy.
Some employers have one policy manual for the employees that discusses work rules, open door policy, etc., then a seperate manual for managers that adds managment details that the employees don't need to know. This might be a way to solve your problem.
Good Luck!
On a serious side, if you are going to publish the employee manual, I suggest that you consult with your attorney to make sure that you are not altering the at-will nature of the employment.
Additionally, top management should know that if there is employment litigation, the policy is generally discoverable.
A company without a published and documented policy manual or employee handbook is obviously trying to hide something, or simply does not wished to be tied down to their own rules and procedures. Good Luck, as your bosses stumble over their own feet and words. I hope you are in the position to tell them, "I told you so" as you walk out of the company to a better company! Pork
(1)We are one of a few companies that do not distribute. You are right in that you are one of FEW. Most realize the wisdom of doing so. There is a direct correlation between the few who don't and the number of them that haven't yet been on the stand. The numbers seem pretty much equal for some reason.
(2) Policies are written but are closely held by upper management. As you have already read, that is an absurd posture for management to maintain.
(3) Policies are explained to employees as needed. Wrong. They are not. If they were explained 'as needed', they would have them on the date of hire. They provide as much protection for the company as they provide information to the employee.
(4) Upper management is adamant in its desire not to distribute. I don't really know how best to respond to that one, except to ask you to reread number 2.