If we’re being brutally honest, most employees don’t understand their basic working rights. You go to work every day and plug away at things because it’s your job, right? It’s what you have to do so you don’t give anything else much thought. Business owners are aware of this and a fair few will take advantage of your negligence. Unbeknownst to you, you could be working in an unfair workplace that violates many of your basic rights.
But that’s illegal, isn’t it? Yes – but only if the employer gets caught. If you aren’t aware you’re being violated, nothing will happen. That’s why it’s smart to know some basic employment rights to spot when an employer takes things too far. We can’t list all of your rights as they vary from state to state or country to country, but here are some common ones that often get overlooked:
You’re Entitled To Minimum Wage & Overtime Pay
Most people know they should be paid at least the minimum wage, but do you know what this rate actually is? Be sure you’re aware of it and check that you’re being paid fairly.
More importantly, see if you’re being paid for overtime work. This is typically more than the minimum wage, so if you’re being paid the same rate for hours that go beyond your contracted work, you could make some legal claims.
There’s Often A Limit On How Much You’re Forced To Work
Depending on where you work, there will be a specific limit on your weekly working hours. It can be 40 in some places, 48 in others, or less in different countries. Regardless, you cannot be forced to work over the legal limit unless you’ve explicitly signed a contract saying you’re willing to do so.
Employers take advantage of this all the time and make you work overtime when you can legally turn around and say no thanks, I’m going home! Be aware of the maximum working hours and don’t be forced to work more than this if you don’t want to.
Employees Are Entitled To Safe Working Conditions
This is a big one that most employees forget about and many employers constantly violate. “Safe working conditions” mean your workplace shouldn’t cause accidents. There should be clear deterrents to stop injuries or the business is in direct violation of health and safety laws.
Even worse, employees don’t realize their rights when they’ve been injured at work. You’re entitled to financial compensation and should consult some workers compensation claim lawyers for more assistance. You’ll win the case almost all the time as your employer has no leg to stand on if you get injured at work.
Employers Must Provide Paid Leave
When you are legally contracted as a full-time or part-time employee of a company, you are entitled to paid leave. This includes holiday and sick pay – though the exact amounts depend on how many hours a week you work.
Regardless, if you’re legally an employee of an organization, they have to give you paid time off. Companies are taking advantage of this all the time and not assigning the right amount of paid leave or neglecting to provide it at all. Be aware of your rights so you can take time off and still get money.
It’s well worth looking at all the employee rights in your country so you’re clued up on what your employer can or can’t do to you. Too many people get played for fools and so many businesses get away with it. It’s time to speak up and be aware of when you’re being taken advantage of so you can call out your employer and force them to change.
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