A well-trained human resources (HR) department protects a business. In California, where employment laws are especially strict, HR is not just about hiring and managing employees. It is also about ensuring legal compliance and avoiding costly mistakes.
Below are some essential points to remember.
Why HR is essential to business operations
HR departments handle recruitment, onboarding, employee relations and workplace policies. In California, these tasks must follow various state and federal laws. This includes the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), wage and hour rules under the Labor Code and strict anti-discrimination regulations. A good HR team helps a business build a fair workplace while reducing the risk of lawsuits and penalties.
The importance of training for legal compliance
California employment law is complex and frequently updated. HR staff must stay informed about new rules, such as changes to paid sick leave, harassment training or meal and rest break requirements. Regular training is key to ensuring HR professionals understand their legal duties. Without this, even small errors in employee classification or leave policies can lead to serious legal issues.
A strong HR department can prevent a range of legal problems. These include:
- Wrongful termination claims
- Wage and hour violations
- Harassment or discrimination lawsuits
- Improper handling of employee complaints
- Errors in maintaining required records
By keeping policies current and documenting all processes properly, HR can help protect the company from liability.
Your company’s HR department must function efficiently. Without this, your business may be open to legal disputes. For more information on employment law in California, it may help to seek further guidance.