It’s no secret that many companies face problems when they’re in the midst of a difficult time or the economy is taking a downturn. As we all know, these economic downturns can be devastating for those who work for such companies as their jobs may be at risk. But what rights do workers have amid company troubles? It’s important to understand your rights so you’ll know how to react if and when your company faces financial difficulties. Here are some things you should keep in mind:
Avoid Panicking
First and foremost, employees should not panic– even if it seems like there is nothing left but bad news coming from the company where you work. It’s natural to be afraid when trouble strikes your company because you may actually be at risk of losing your job entirely, but employees should remember that it is illegal for employers not to give them their full benefits if they are laid off. You don’t want to do anything rash or unwise that could potentially hurt your chances of keeping employment with that company later on down the road. You should instead stay calm, keep your head up and continue working to the best of your abilities.
Employees and Unions
It’s important to remember that employees have the right to form unions if they so choose. If you feel as though joining a union would be beneficial for your situation, do some research on unions in your area. Unions are an avenue for workers to get organized and to get their voices heard. Uniting with your fellow co-workers can help ensure that you’re treated fairly under the law.
Another important thing for employees to keep in mind is that they should think about what they can do, not just sit back and let things happen. One of such things is reaching out to a workers’ compensation attorney in Georgia to help claim the money you deserve. Being proactive will help employees hold on to the rights they have in this difficult time.
Unemployment Benefits Eligibility
Knowledge of unemployment benefits is helpful if layoffs are taking place. In order to be eligible for unemployment benefits, you’ll need to have been laid off from your job with no fault of your own. In most cases, a company will be required to notify its employees about layoffs well in advance before they actually happen. This is why it’s important for employees to save all of the documents and information they receive from their employers in a file.
That way, you’ll have all of the information you need to prove that your job was taken away without cause. In some cases, layoffs may result from downsizing within a company, but if this is due to the fact that the business has been struggling or facing financial troubles for an extended period of time, then employees should be eligible for unemployment benefits.
However, an employee’s eligibility for unemployment benefits may depend on the state they live in. Some states are more stringent than others when it comes to enforcing deadlines and guidelines about unemployment benefits. Therefore, you should contact your local unemployment office to find out more information about submitting your claims.
The Right to be Protected From Forced Labor
If you’re laid off from your job, you might wonder if it’s legal for your employer to ask you to stay on and continue working without receiving any form of compensation. The answer is no! If layoffs are taking place, employers need to let their employees go unless they agree to work without employment benefits. Forced labor of this kind is illegal under the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification Act, also known as the WARN Act.
If you are being forced to work without being paid anything at all, then this is illegal. Union workers may consider taking legal action against their employers if they are put in this kind of situation. Employees need to know that they may be able to receive back pay if forced labor is taking place at their company due to financial troubles or bankruptcy proceedings. People who are facing these kinds of issues in their job often feel alone and powerless, but there are actually many resources available to help people understand their rights as employees.
The Right to Refuse Dangerous Work
When a business is going through tough times, it’s quite possible that the company will ask its employees to work in dangerous conditions in order to keep their doors open. However, employees are not required to work in unsafe environments. Employees can refuse to do any type of work that they feel is dangerous or hazardous under the OSHA Act. If an employer retaliates against an employee for refusing hazardous work, then he or she may be able to file a case at their local labor board or with OSHA’s help. This can help ensure that employers are following the rules and treating employees fairly under the law.
All in all, the right to fair treatment during a company crisis is crucial for employees who are feeling overwhelmed by their circumstances. However, there are also many other rights that employees need to know about during this difficult time so they can be prepared should these issues arise.