2009 - August
Make inductions effective introductions
Going through your workplace rules with a new employee on day one may seem like a chore. But get it right and this could be time well spent. Why is this, and how can you make the process as effective as possible?
A new alternative to redundancy?
The CBI has put forward an idea for a new scheme which it says will help employers avoid redundancies for very little cost. So what does it involve and are you going to be able to take advantage of it anytime soon?
HMRC v Stringer - the final conclusion
The House of Lords has finally given its decision in the long running saga of HM Revenue & Customs v Stringer. But it comes with a nasty sting in the tail for employers. What is the unexpected surprise?
You might have seen reports that the TUC wants an outright ban on high heels in the workplace as they encourage sexism. Is this true and, if so, should you be forcing the girls to wear shoes that would make their grannies’ proud?
Take harassment complaints seriously
A tribunal has come down hard on an employer who didn’t act when two members of staff made complaints of harassment. The mistake cost an eye-watering £22,000. What did it do wrong?
Asking job applicants about their health
There’s nothing to stop you from asking a job applicant about their medical history before offering them a job. But as a new case shows, if you choose to do this, you must pick your words carefully. So what should you be asking?
The government is thinking of allowing employees with swine ‘flu to take 14 days off without producing a sick note. But is this as bad as it sounds?
The recent warm and frequently wet weather has given rise to a jungle of weeds on your site - some of which are particularly tough and can’t be pulled up. What’s the best way of dealing with them?
Are wind turbines a viable option?
Small wind turbines have been proven to be a complete waste of time and money. But now, larger and potentially more effective ones are coming on to the market. Are they worth considering?
In a large building such as a warehouse, keeping it warm is frequently an expensive and largely ineffective exercise. However, there are ways of keeping bills down and making the space warmer. What’s available?
Electric hand dryer or paper towels?
During the fit-out of a new toilet and changing facility, you’ve become embroiled in a debate about the environmental and cost implications of electric hand dryers and paper towels. To settle matters, which is the best option on both counts?
Cheaper environmental permits on offer
Does your business have to fork out for environmental permits to comply with air pollution regulations? If so, there may be some good news for you with the government offering “money off” deals. What’s on the table?
The Environment Agency is encouraging insurers to recognise the efforts of those who have prepared flood plans. What’s to know?