Good Information Regarding Scents in the Workplace

The issue in a recent grievance filed by a school bus driver was whether bringing cupcakes containing alcohol to work violated the company’s policy barring use of “intoxicating beverages” and constituted just cause for termination. The arbitrator deciding the issue held that the cupcakes did not violate the policy and therefore the action did not…

This is a story about the potential consequences of not properly training supervisors as to FMLA rights and obligations.  It is a long and detailed story, but the details are necessary to understand how the court came to its decision.   It is also an important story because ultimately the court determined not only that the…

With the upcoming presidential election, and the country more divided than ever on politics, should political discussions be permitted in the workplace? First, can an employer even restrict an employee’s political speech?  In the famous words of lawyers everywhere: it depends.  Generally, private-sector employers can limit political discussions and activities during work hours.  However, employers…

A decision just issued from the Workers’ Compensation Board Appellate Division is a good reminder of the need to train supervisors to recognize and respond appropriately to reports of work-related incidents.    One of the issues in the case was the date on which the employee gave notice of her work-related injury.  The Hearing Officer concluded…

By: Attorney Anne-Marie Storey An electronic cigarette (e-cigarette) is a battery operated device that creates an inhaled dose of a vaporized liquid, often containing nicotine.   No smoke is emitted from the device.    An e-cigarette is not considered a drug or medical device by the FDA.  However, they are included within the DOT’s prohibition…