where do i stand in having my staff work late in my pub?

Question

i have female staff that work untill 1-2am on weekends, is there any legislation that states i must ensure that they get home safely or is that not my problem as at the moment i pay for taxi's to ensure they get home and im getting to a point where i can no longer afford it but want to be clear on the matter before i knock them on the head

Answer 1

Although state laws vary, unless you hired them with some form of a contract or understanding stating you would provide transportation then I don't think there is a legal issue. However, ethically you might want to give them a couple weeks notice to figure out their new transportation plans before completely cutting them off. Since this sounds like it's been somewhat of the norm, they may feel they're loosing a perk/benefit and not want to continue to work with you under the new terms.

Answer 2

Depending on your state laws, which you should check out first, but normally it is not up to you how your staff gets to and from work just that they be on time. But seeing as that you are a responsible "manager" you might be able to take a portion of your cost from their pay and, depending on the tax laws, be able to get a tax break from doing so.

Also you might want to ask them about how they will feel if, and when, you lay the hammer down because it just might hurt your staff and cause you to have to hire new staff.

Check your local laws and with the IRS/accountant before you jump in with both feet, you might do something that you'll regret. Good luck and hope this helps.

Answer 3

I don't think the obligation is legal, rather it's moral. If you have a conscience, and want loyal workers who feel that you are looking out for their best interests, you could contribute all, or even half of what they need to get home safely.
How about paying the bouncer to make a run, and skipping the taxis?

Answer 4

I used to be a food and beverage director in a full service resort, and I know of no statute or legislation that states you must make sure they get home safely. I would stop paying for them to get a ride home, they are just taking advantage of you! If you accept a job as a bartender, that is part of your job description. Tell them to deal with it.

Answer 5

I don't know about any legislation in your or my area, but if it were me, I'd try to increase the buisiness overall, rather than cut.
If you cut the taxi service, current and new employees may be reluctant to work late at your pub.
Maybe cut a deal with another taxi service, giving them 1st priority of phone call.
A safe environment would also be a happy one!!

Answer 6

I live in Illinois and was a waitress for the past 2 years. I sometimes worked doubles until 2 am and I never had a cab paid for. Sometimes I was lucky if I got a walk out to my car... and No. I don't think there's a law, but ask other local bar owners.

Answer 7

You sound like somebdy that I would love to work for. No, there's nothing that says you have to make sure they make it home safely, but it's great to hear that you are concerned for their safety. Perhaps you could pay a bouncer to drive them home each night. Taxis are expensive, so maybe put somebody on your payroll that will assume this job. Pay this person an hourly wage and reimburse them for fuel.

Cheers to you!

Answer 8

I don't know about legally, but ethically you have went above and beyond by buying a cab. I think having an escort to their transportation would be sufficient.

Answer 9

I think after a certain hour you must provide them with transport home..male or female employees...

Answer 10

you should seek legal advise on this.