The Bare Minimum Compliance Checklist
Your Essential Guide to Keeping HR on the Right Side of the Law
We don’t buy into the scare tactics that too many people associate with HR and compliance. We’re not here to tell you the sky is falling or sell you on fear – because good HR isn’t about instilling panic; it’s about building a solid foundation. Keeping up with compliance shouldn’t feel intimidating; it should feel like a basic, empowering checklist that protects your business and your people.
So, if you’ve been putting off your compliance housekeeping (no judgment), we’re here to help. Here’s your guide to meet the bare minimum in moving your way toward compliance. If you need support, our compliance store has you covered: Check out our Compliance Posters.
Let’s jump in, shall we?
1. Employment Posters: The “You Are Here” Map for Employer Requirements
Think of employment posters as the foundational map in your compliance journey. These aren’t just nice-to-haves – they’re mandatory in nearly every state. From federal posters that cover basics like minimum wage to state-specific ones that keep you compliant with local laws, having the right posters displayed prominently in your workplace is essential.
Here are the basics you’ll need:
Federal Posters: Minimum wage, anti-discrimination, OSHA, and more.
State-Specific Posters: Every state has its unique requirements, from sick leave to payday notices.
Industry-Specific Posters: For those in certain sectors like healthcare or construction, you might need additional posters.
To make it a *little* easier - you can grab an “all-in-one” poster that includes both your Federal and State required notices. Not sure which ones you need? Just ask! Our compliance store has a one-stop shop for industry-specific, federal, and state posters – keeping you covered from all angles.
2. Required State Trainings: Beyond the Basics to Keep Your Team Safe & Sound
Whether you’re in bustling New York or sunny California, most states require specific workplace trainings that aren’t just there to tick boxes but to actually keep your people safe. Take New York State’s Sexual Harassment Prevention Training as an example – it’s a mandatory yearly training for all employees, covering the basics of respectful workplace behavior, bystander intervention, and how to report issues if they arise.
A few must-haves to note:
Sexual Harassment Prevention Training: Required in many states, this training is essential for fostering a safe, inclusive workplace.
State-Specific Safety Trainings: Some states require additional training for high-risk industries like construction or healthcare.
Annual Updates: In some states, training requirements refresh annually, so set your calendar reminders accordingly.
If this sounds like a lot to remember, you’re not wrong. That’s why investing in compliance resources saves time, headaches, and potential penalties down the line.
PS - we know this is boring AF, so we recommend hopping on service with us so you get our friendly, funny, and conscious voices to deliver the details, rather than the words on the paper.
3. OSHA Requirements: Because Safety Isn’t a Luxury
OSHA isn’t just another box on the compliance checklist – it’s about protecting your people and their right to a safe workplace. If you’re unfamiliar, OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration) is the federal body overseeing workplace safety. Even if you’re in a low-risk industry, OSHA compliance is still mandatory.
What’s required for most businesses?
Workplace Safety Posters: Again with the posters! Yes, you need OSHA-specific ones too.
Safety Training: Depending on your industry, you may need additional safety training for employees working with machinery or hazardous materials.
Incident Reporting: OSHA requires businesses to keep a log of work-related injuries and illnesses. Even small businesses (fewer than 10 employees) might be required to report incidents, especially serious ones.
These requirements change, so staying on top of OSHA updates (or having us do it) ensures your business doesn’t miss a beat.
Keeping Compliance Simple with Our Compliance Store
With so much to stay on top of, it’s tempting to put compliance on the back burner – but a single missed poster or training can turn into a costly mistake. If you’re ready to set it and forget it, our Compliance Poster Store makes compliance easy, affordable, and best of all, stress-free. We offer everything from federal and state posters to industry-specific solutions so you can focus on what matters: running a conscious, compliant business.
