First published on Wednesday, October 2, 2024
Last updated on Wednesday, October 2, 2024
Welcome to HR Heartbeat, where we give you a rundown of the week’s top employment law stories. Stay on the pulse of current trends impacting your business, plus get up-to-the-minute commentaries on all things HR and legal.
Failing to pay garden leave digs up trouble for one firm
According to RTE, a property company has been ordered to pay a former employee nearly €32,000 after failing to pay an employee on their garden leave.
The employee in question received an email from their employer stating he was on garden leave for 3 months. But according to the employee, they “never resigned” and subsequently not paid for their notice period as the contract had stated.
The WRC ruled in favour of the employee under the Payment of Wages Act 1991. Getting rules on employee contracts and pay wrong can be extremely risky for businesses, especially when it comes to more complex employment laws.
For jargon-free advice, ask our instant advice tool Brainbox: - What is garden leave? - Does a resignation have to be in writing? - Can I change a contract of employment?
Ireland the most phished country in the world
Over 60% of Irish adults have experienced phishing, making Ireland the most phished country in the world.
Experts say this highlights an urgent need for the Irish government to improve cybersecurity measures and educate the public on safe data usage.
RTE reports that grants of up to €3,000 have been launched to assist SMEs (small and medium enterprises) to review and update their online security measures to protect them against the risk of cyberattacks.
Need support upskilling your team on the risks of company phishing? BrightHR’s learning management system has a range of courses, including a Cyber Security e-learning course. Learn more about CPD-accredited e-learning.
HSA launches a 2-week inspection of safe machine operations
The Health and Safety Authority (HSA) has announced they’ll be carrying out a 2-week safety inspection campaign focused on safe machinery operation, machinery guarding, and maintenance activities.
Some key areas they’re looking into include:
- Unsafe machinery operation
- Risk assessments for all maintenance activities
- Isolation procedures during planned and unplanned maintenance
The Senior Inspector of HSA states: “As with any hazardous workplace environment, preventative measures are key to ensuring the safety of workers”.
For support putting preventative safety measures in place like risk assessments, hazard reporting, and more—explore BrightSafe’s range of support and health & safety software.
And that’s a wrap. Tune in next week for more headlines and make sure you stay ahead of major employment law changes!
