ERB Monitor 06/2008

Mention staff appraisal and many people get that sinking feeling in the pit of their stomach.
It’s the feeling you got when it was time for your teacher to hand out the school report or more recently the call from the bank regarding your post Celtic Tiger free falling bank account!

Providing no reference, inaccurate or critical references can have damaging consequences for employees and create legal risks for employers. Employers must ensure that references are true, accurate and fair.
Employee references are an area of increasing concern for employers. This article will give you a clearer understanding of your obligations and address the core issues.

One of the key elements of managing workplace diversity is to focus on similarities not differences. By focusing on our similarities, we are building a firm foundation for understanding each others diversity.

Many employers have developed models of good practice. Initiatives such as The Anti-Racist Workplace Week have sought to highlight racism issues. Effective workplace relationships are essential for the success of your organisation.

by Jennifer Cashman, Partner, Ronan Daly Jermyn Solicitors

Stress and back pain/injury are the most common causes of absenteeism according to a recent Small Firms Association (SFA) report. Employers in the community sector should be mindful that they are fulfilling their duty of care by including stress risk assessments as part of Health & Safety Statements reviews.
Implementing a specific policy on workplace stress should also be considered. Aside from the absenteeism, stress can lead to a less productive workforce, faulty decision-making, and ultimately the possibility of legal action for negligence or constructive dismissal.