Salon employees can only perform to the best of their abilities if they have clear expectations to meet. The rights and responsibilities of salon employees can be outlined in a clear, easy-to-follow employee handbook. This handy reference guide can help managers and employees understand their roles in running a fair and legal salon.

Employment Rights and Obligations for Recruitment

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All potential salon employees have the right not to be discriminated against, directly, indirectly, intentionally or unintentionally. Salon owners cannot discriminate against potential employees based on sex, marital status, disability, race, ethnic origin, weight, family status, union membership or part-time work status. This means that employers may not ask interviewees if they are married or have children, or what nationality they are. Employers may also not discriminate against employees when determining pay; for example, it is illegal for an employer to pay male employees more than female employees for the same job. It is also the responsibility of salon employees not to discriminate against each other or against customers.

Contract of Employment

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Salon employees have the right to a contract of employment. This contract should state whether the employee is salaried or works as an independent contractor. It should also state whether the employment is at will, meaning that the employee can quit or be fired at any time. The contract should state the pay and benefits of the employee, including sick pay and paid annual leave. The contract should also contain the job description for the employee, specifying the duties and responsibilities the employee is expected to fulfill. This contract should also describe disciplinary procedures if the employee fails to meet those responsibilities.

Working Time Regulations and Minimum Wage

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Salon employees have the right to be paid a minimum wage set by the state, or the federal minimum wage, whichever is higher. Full-time employees may also be entitled to annual paid leave, depending on what state the salon is in. Employees have the right to be paid overtime if they work more than 40 hours per week, and the number of overtime hours they can work is limited by the state the salon does business in. All employees are entitled to regular breaks, the length and frequency of which are determined by the state.

Health and Safety

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All employees have the right to a safe and healthy workplace, and employers can be fined if their salons are in violation of local health or the Occupational Safety & Health Administration (OSHA) codes. Employees are responsible for maintaining their workplace and following all state and federal regulations in regards to health and safety. These regulations differ by state but may include adequate lighting and ventilation requirements or procedures for keeping salon equipment clean. All accidents must be recorded and reported to OSHA.