Your career could come to a grinding halt overnight if you don't have the right workplace rights.

If you want to know if you have the right protections, look over some of these valuable guidelines. You'll feel more secure knowing you have these workplace rights to fall back on.

Read this article now and make sure you're protected.

Understanding Wage & Hour Laws

Understanding wage and hour laws is an essential part of work rights that everyone should know about. First and foremost, employers must ensure everyone is paid at least the federal minimum wage, and that wages are paid on time each pay period.

In addition, the Fair Labor Standards Act dictates the wages and the number of hours employees can work before overtime needs to be paid; this is usually measured on a weekly basis.

In certain states, employers must also provide paid sick days to help workers, depending on the number of hours worked. It is imperative to know the rules and regulations set by the government to protect your rights as an employee and ensure you are treated fairly in the workplace.

Workplace Discrimination & Harassment

Workplace rights are an individual’s ability to work in a safe and nondiscriminatory environment.

It is every employee’s right to be treated with dignity and respect. And also to have the same access to opportunities, resources, and promotional materials. Regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, and other factors.

Every employee should also be free to pursue his/her own interests without having to worry about being harassed, discriminated or punished.

Discrimination or harassment based on any of the factors, including age or disability, is illegal and can be punishable by fines and/or imprisonment.

Employers should take steps to create and maintain a workplace that is free from discrimination and harassment. So that everyone can work in an atmosphere that is free and fair.

What to Do if Your Rights Are Violated

If you think your workplace rights have been violated by an employer, it's important to speak up. Take action to ensure that you’re treated fairly.

It’s important to document any illegal or discriminatory behavior or practices that you experience or witness. Report any incidents to your supervisor or HR department. Keep track of any conversations that you have regarding the incidents.

It’s important to maintain an assertive attitude while working to protect your rights. If an informal resolution cannot be reached with the employers, contact a lawyer and file a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission or your state’s Department of Labor.

These organizations are able to investigate the violations and provide recourse if the rights have been violated. Having legal help can be especially useful when filing a lawsuit or going through the court system if other remedies have failed.

Taking steps to protect your workplace rights can help prevent further discrimination and help ensure you are treated fairly.

Know Workplace Rights Now

Workplace Rights are an important part of any job, and it's up to each employee to understand their rights and hold their employer accountable.

Knowing what rights you have in the workplace is essential for a safe and successful career. Don't forget to stay up to date on Rights in the Workplace! 

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