Employment Practices Liability
Employment practices liability (EPL) is a growing area of concern for organizations, as lawsuits related to employment practices are on the rise. In fact, by some estimates, 1 in 5 cases in civil courts is an employment-related lawsuit. Employment practices claims—including discrimination, wrongful termination and harassment—are among the most costly and time-consuming issues an employer can face. What’s more, these claims pose a serious risk to an organization’s stability, reputation and bottom line. That’s why it’s vital for organizations to establish and implement effective loss control measures to avoid EPL claims. This resource offers helpful strategies for different aspects of employment practices to avoid possible claims.
Employee Handbooks
Employee handbooks can help protect organizations against costly claims by having written policies inplace to address important issues such as attendance, harassment, paid leave, termination and at-will employment. They provide guidelines for employees to handle complaints and avoid fostering an atmosphere of noncompliance.
Harassment, Discrimination and Retaliation
It is an employer’s responsibility to ensure the workplace is free from harassment and discrimination. Employers should take prompt action and handle harassment, discrimination and retaliation claims quickly and efficiently. Ignored complaints can result in low employee morale, high stress, damaged professional reputations, absenteeism and lawsuits.
Recruiting, Hiring and Onboarding
Organizations can expose themselves to risks when recruiting, hiring and onboarding new employees. Issues can arise if managers make employment decisions based on protected characteristics—including age, gender and race—or if former employees or applicants receive unfair treatment or are discriminated against.
Performance Evaluations, Discipline and Termination
If not handled properly, performance evaluations, discipline and termination can open organizations up to EPL claims. There are certain legal requirements organizations must abide by to avoid costly claims.
Learn More
It’s essential for organizations to implement proper risk management precautions to avoid EPL claims. Although this resource provides a range of loss control strategies, organizations don’t have to establish risk management programs alone. Working with a qualified and experienced insurance professional can make all the difference. Contact us today to discuss insurance solutions and additional loss control techniques.
Click below to view the full Loss Control Tip Brochure:
