The workplace should have a positive environment for workers so that they can work peacefully without any negativity. There are always limits set by-laws as to what is acceptable and what is unacceptable in the workplace, and this is applicable to both employees and employers. There are clear rules and regulations about what an employee should do, but there are very few talks about what an employer should do and what not to do. So, in this article, we will discuss the top five things that your boss should not do at your workplace to protect your employment rights.
What are the Top Five Things Your Boss Cannot Do At Your Workplace?
- Discrimination against an Employee: Your boss cannot discriminate against any employee at your workplace. Discrimination is prohibited in every law throughout the world. It occurs when an employee is treated differently at work because of their privilege, and you are treated unfairly because you do not hold the privilege. There are various types of discrimination, such as disability discrimination, sexual, race, class, and many more. If you are facing any such discrimination, then you can contact the concerned authority or the lawyer to file a case.
- Take Actions Against You For Talking about Salary: Punishing an employee for talking about their salaries is not acceptable, and your boss cannot do it. You have the complete right to communicate about your salary. You can either discuss it with colleagues or higher authorities or organize a union for negotiation. Your boss cannot punish or retaliate against you in any case if you are discussing your salary.
- Make You Work Unpaid Overtime: Employers can delegate work to employees, but there is always a payment associated with it. Your boss cannot make you work overtime without paying you for it. You cannot be forced to work ‘off the clock’ such as pre-shift duties, post-shift duties, administrative duties, performing work during a meal or rest break, and many more such duties. If you are indulging in these off-the-clock duties, you have to be compensated for it. There is a law that beyond the total working hours, if you are involved, then you have to get overtime pay.
- Pay Less Than Minimum Wage: The minimum wage is stated in every law that employers have to pay, and if your boss is paying less than the minimum wage for your work, you can file a case. The minimum wage is an obligation for your employer, and they cannot deny it either by agreement or bargaining.
- Pay You Less For An Illegal Reason: If the employer is paying you less and contributing to wage discrimination, then it is illegal. The reason can be anything like wage discrimination due to sexual differences, race, disability, or any other reason. So, these are certain illegal reasons that cannot be conveyed for wage discrimination.
If your boss is involved in any of such activities, you can consult an experienced attorney for a better understanding of the laws.
