Employee Handbook

What is an Employee Handbook?

An employee handbook, sometimes also known as an employee manual or staff handbook, is a book given to employees by an employer. Usually, the employee handbook contains information about company policies and procedures, it may also form part of an employee’s terms and conditions of employment.

In short, the employee handbook explains what the employer expects from employee and what the employee can expect in return.

Why have an Employee Handbook?

You’re legally obliged to inform each member of your staff about your employment policies and practices and their main terms of employment. The employee handbook is a simple way for you to ensure you’re fulfilling this obligation.
An employee handbook is an excellent place to bring together employment and job-related information which employees need to know, such as holiday arrangements, company rules and disciplinary and grievance procedures. It can also provide useful source of information to new staff as part of the induction process.
A written employee handbook gives clear advice to employees and creates a culture where issues are dealt with fairly and consistently.
An employee handbook is valuable legal protection if an employee later challenges you in court.

What should you include in the Employee Handbook

General information:

Changes in Personal Details, Changes in Employment Terms, Employee Data, Employees Terms, Holidays, Overtime, Probationary Period, Termination of Employment, Training, Wage/Salary Payments, Working Hours

Family policy:

Flexible Working, Parental Leave

Policy and procedure:

Absence, Appraisal, Company Property, Confidentiality, Disciplinary Procedure, Drugs and Alcohol Policy, Equal Opportunities, Grievance Procedure, Harassment and Bullying, Intellectual Property Rights, Internet and Email Use, Mobile Phones, Redundancy, Retirement, Right of Search, Security, Sickness Pay, Smoking Whistle Blowing.

Standards of Conduct:

Timekeeping, Personal Appearance, Consumer Care.

Health and safety:

Accident Reporting, Fire, First Aid, Personal Protective Equipment.