Understanding Your Rights as an Employee

As an employee in a company, you must work productively, to a high standard, and maintain your self-respect. While it is up to the employer to train you to do your job and prioritize your health and well-being, there still may come a time when you will need to know your rights to ensure you are getting the right level of work from your employer and are getting the value that you deserve. 

Not many people realize this, but several laws dictate your rights as an employee, which include the right to a minimum wage, protection of your health and well-being, and protection against harassment and discrimination. It is important that you are aware of your rights, so you can ensure a smooth and happy work experience. Working is something you have to do every day, to pay your bills, put a roof over your head, and live your life. You should therefore ensure that you are in a workplace that is suitable for you.

To help you on your employment journey, here are some of your rights as an employee to help you understand the quality of employment you should be receiving and to ensure you understand what is expected. 

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#1 A safe and healthy workplace environment 

All employees are entitled to a safe and healthy workplace environment. It is the responsibility of your employer to ensure that the environment is free from hazards, and is suitable to conduct the relevant activities. They also must listen and consult with their employees on safety matters that are raised. They must complete their due diligence, and ensure their health and safety practices are constantly followed properly and regularly reviewed. If you find yourself in a situation where you have an accident at work due to an unsafe working environment, you will need to seek support from workers compensation claim lawyers. 

#2 Protection against discrimination 

It should be common sense that you should not discriminate against another individual, but unfortunately, it does happen. This is why, as an employee, you have a right against discrimination in the workplace. Your employees should have a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, and if it arises, due course of action should be taken to deal with it. Discrimination covers gender, age, race, religion, sexual orientation, and more, to ensure employees are not treated differently. It is the responsibility of your employer to ensure that practices, including hiring practices and employee behavior in the workplace, remain fair. 

#3 The right to minimum wage 

It is all employees’ right to receive a minimum wage. The minimum wage may vary depending on the country and the state that you work in, so you must check the labor laws in the location that you choose to work in so you are paid the right amount. It is the responsibility of your employees to pay you at least the minimum wage and ensure it is delivered as agreed in your contract

Understanding your rights as an employee is a vital part of working, to ensure you are treated and paid fairly.