A business with employees should have:

• Employers liability insurance
• Written statements of employment
• Disciplinary and grievance procedures
• PAYE registration and procedures
• Registration with HSE or Local Authority, according to the nature of the business

It is always good practice, and for businesses with five or more employees, mandatory, to have a written health and safety policy.

Use the links to the right to see more detailed information on these topics. There is also an interactive tool for creating a written statement of employment.

A fundamental principle for employers is that, having drawn up employment contracts, disciplinary and grievance procedures, these should be scrupulously adhered to in all situations and that all steps taken should be fully documented.

An employer who fails to follow procedures is heavily disadvantaged at any subsequent tribunal.

It is particularly important to avoid taking action that could be construed as discrimination, even if this was not its intention. It is unlawful to discriminate on the grounds of someone's sex, sexual orientation, marital status, race, colour, nationality, ethnic origin, religion, beliefs or because of a disability, pregnancy or childbirth, or because they are a member or non-member of a trade union. It is also unlawful to discriminate against part-time workers. Use the links to the right for help.