Your Cheat Sheet to Poster Penalties
We all know the importance of labor posters, but did you know how much noncompliance could cost you? Let’s take a closer look at what this means for employers.
Each poster has its own associated fine if not displayed. The DOL and EEOC have set fine levels that include:
- Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA): $15,625 for each violation.
- Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA): $204 for each separate offense.
- Employee Polygraph Protection Act (EPPA): $24,793.
- Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (EEOC): $659 for each separate offense.
Nobody wants to pay fines, so employers can avoid them by properly displaying the required labor law posters. Here are some simple steps to ensure compliance:
First and easiest, display all the postings required by federal, state, county, and local laws. These posters contain vital information that employees must know about their rights and protections. By having them readily available, you’re demonstrating your commitment to keeping your workforce informed.
As a reminder, if any of the federal, state, county, and local laws differ, you must abide by the one that benefits the employee the most.
Second, the placement of these posters is essential. Prominently display them in an area that is easily accessible to all employees. The break room or a common area often works well. Every employee should have the opportunity to see and read the posters.
Next, keep your posters up to date. Laws and regulations can and do change. Stay informed and promptly replace outdated posters. Doing so demonstrates your dedication to compliance and creates a culture of transparency within your organization.
Last, take a moment to check that your posters are readable and not defaced. Over time, wear and tear can take its toll on these critical pieces of information. If a poster becomes illegible or is damaged, replace it immediately. After all, a torn or faded poster serves no purpose and may even lead to misunderstandings or confusion.
Federal posters are available on the Department of Labor’s (DOL) website, and you can find state-specific posters on your state’s DOL websites. If you want to avoid downloading and printing posters, you can order an all-in-one professional print from a poster company. Nextep orders posters for current clients.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind. Posters must be displayed at each workplace location. Also, today’s workplaces often have remote employees. In these cases, you may also display your posters electronically. The key is that the posters are easily and readily available for viewing.
Promoting a safe, fair, and informed work environment is in everyone’s best interest. Stay vigilant and keep those posters visible!
