In order for a business to become successful, its leaders must be hardworking and proactive in every regard. The employees must feel a sense of connection to the company, otherwise no real result or growth will ever come to fruition. As employers, it is essential to take care your employees and make sure their work experience allows for their greatest possible output. If one employee has a bad experience, whether due to a fellow employee or superior, a company’s success and reputation can diminish. In the event of a grievance filed from a disgruntled employee against your company, the proper EPLI will have your firm covered and allow business to continue to run smoothly and not feel the effects of incredibly high legal fees.
One of the most popular claims filed against companies by its own employees are age discrimination cases. Age discrimination involves treating someone (an applicant or employee) less favorably because of his age. The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA) only forbids age discrimination against people who are age 40 or older. It does not protect workers under the age of 40, although some states do have laws that protect younger workers from age discrimination.
The law forbids discrimination when it comes to any aspect of employment, including hiring, firing, pay, job assignments, promotions, layoff, training, fringe benefits, and any other term or condition of employment. It’s also unlawful to harass a person because of his or her age. Although the law doesn’t prohibit simple teasing, offhand comments, or isolated incidents that aren’t very serious, harassment is illegal when it is so frequent or severe that it creates a hostile or offensive work environment or when it results in an adverse employment decision (such as the victim being fired or demoted).
So the next time you place the ‘help wanted’ sign outside your window, keep in mind the ages of those that apply for the position. You cannot turn someone away simply because you believe their age will be a hindrance to your company. Make sure to always have epli coverage incase anyone files a claim against you and your company today.