Monthly Archives: November 2013

New OSHA Hazard Communication Rules

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There are changes coming to the hazard communication rules.  These changes focus on how risks associated with chemical hazards in the workplace are conveyed to employees.  The new communication standard is based on the Globally Harmonized System (GHS).  As the name indicates, GHS is meant to be universally adopted to simplify hazard communication.  These changes go into effect for employers on December 1, 2013.   OSHA’s training on the upcoming changes are broken down into […]

Should Your Small Business Offer Health Insurance in 2014

This entry was posted in HR News and tagged Affordable Care Act (ACA) Oregon Health Insurance Exchange on

For a good part of 2013 I have been speaking to small businesses about the Affordable Care Act (ACA).  At those speaking engagements employers have expressed concern about what should they do in 2014.  Should they provide health insurance, can they afford it or is it better to just wait and see what happens in the latter part of 2013 before making a decision?  There is no easy answer. The answers to these questions vary […]

Battle Claws: Santa vs. the Establishment

This entry was posted in HR News and tagged Holidays on

Santa Claus. Some of us dress like him. Many of us sit on him. Almost all of us have seen him. He’s BIG. He also evokes a range of emotions in our diverse culture. Some people fondly recall memories of family holiday celebrations. Others find religious meaning. For some, Santa Claus represents exclusion. They may not be excluded intentionally. It just works out that way. It’s a numbers thing. Title VII of the Civil Rights […]

Federal Bonding Program

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Wanting to hire an applicant but not sure if you should put them in a position of trust due to a criminal background check?  (For example, a theft conviction would normally bar employment where an employee would handle cash.) There is an option with the no cost Federal Bonding Program.  A bond is provided for 6 months at no cost.  After that period there is an option to purchase a bond from Travelers Insurance. The […]