Employee Handbook
Employee Handbook
Employee Handbook
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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Group Life/ADD Insurance ..................................................................................... 24
Voluntary Life/ADD Insurance ................................................................................ 24
AFLAC Personal Cancer Protector ........................................................................ 24
AFLAC Personal Accident Expense (Individual or Family)..................................... 25
AFLAC Personal Recovery Plus (Individual or Family) .......................................... 25
AFLAC Voluntary Indemnity Plan........................................................................... 25
Employee Assistance Program (Individual and Family) ......................................... 26
401(k) Retirement Savings Plan............................................................................. 26
Leave Benefits ........................................................................................................... 27
Vacation ................................................................................................................. 27
Family Medical Leave ............................................................................................ 27
Short-Term Disability Insurance ............................................................................. 27
Long-Term Disability Insurance.............................................................................. 28
Personal Leave of Absence ................................................................................... 28
Jury Duty................................................................................................................ 28
Bereavement.......................................................................................................... 28
POLICIES...................................................................................................................... 30
Workplace Violence Policy .......................................................................... 30
Unlawful Harassment ..................................................................................... 32
Family Medical Leave Policy ...................................................................... 37
Ethics and Integrity .......................................................................................... 43
Electronics Policy ............................................................................................. 45
Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy ............................................................... 48
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Acknowledgement and Disclaimer for Employee Handbook
This is to acknowledge that I have received a copy of Hoss’s Employee Handbook,
which has a revision date of 10/2003 and supersedes any other Handbooks (or policies)
I may have received during my employment. I understand that this Handbook is
intended to serve as a guide to Hoss’s policies, procedures, and benefits, and that all
policies, procedures, and benefits described in the Handbook are at all times subject to
modification by the Company.
I acknowledge that nothing contained in the Handbook creates a binding contract and
that my employment is at-will, which means that it is for no set period of time and may
be terminated by me or the Company at any time with or without cause. Nothing shall
have the effect of changing the at-will status of my employment other than a written
agreement signed by me and a representative of the Company specifically changing
that status.
Working Guidelines
Workplace Violence Policy
Unlawful Harassment Policy
Family Medical Leave Policy
Ethics and Integrity Policy
Electronics Policy
Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy
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EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK
Purpose
This manual is designed to acquaint you with Hoss’s Steak and Sea House and to
provide you with information about working conditions, employee benefits, and company
policies affecting your employment. It describes many of your responsibilities as an
employee and outlines the programs developed by Hoss’s to benefit you. You should
read each of this handbook’s provisions carefully and direct any questions you have
about Hoss’s policies to your General Manager or the Human Resources Department.
It is important to realize that no policy manual can anticipate every circumstance that
will occur or every situation that will develop. As Hoss’s faces new and different
situations, the need will arise from time to time to change the policies described in this
manual, or to modify the way the policies are applied. Some of our policies are affected
by federal and state law, which is also subject to change. For these reasons, Hoss’s
reserves the right to revise, supplement, or rescind any portion of this manual as
management deems appropriate, at its sole and absolute discretion. We will attempt to
provide advance notice of any such changes, however, this is not always feasible.
Therefore, Hoss’s retains the right to make changes to the manual without prior notice
to employees. The most up-to-date copy of this handbook is available on Hoss’s
employee website, www.hosspeople.com, or from a manager.
Nature of Employment
Employment with Hoss’s Steak and Sea House is voluntarily entered into by both the
employee and Hoss’s, and we hope that our relationship with our employees will be
mutually satisfying and beneficial. However, we recognize that an employee may resign
his/her employment at any time and for any reason. You as an employee should also
understand that Hoss’s has a corresponding right to terminate your employment at any
time, with or without cause.
While it is certainly not our intent or our practice to terminate employees arbitrarily, it is
important that you understand that employees have no guarantee regarding the
duration of their employment. Likewise, there is no limitation on the grounds for which
employees can be terminated, except as prohibited by law.
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WORKING GUIDELINES
90-Day Trial Period
1. A new employee must read and sign all appropriate documents relevant to
the position prior to starting work.
2. New employees will serve a 90-day trial period commencing on the first
day of work.
3. New employees will be evaluated a minimum of one time in writing within
the 90-day period.
4. A new employee can be dismissed during their trial period or any time
thereafter, if judged to be incapable of meeting Hoss’s standards.
Definition of Status
All employees of Hoss’s Steak and Sea House are foodservice employees and may be
required to work a variety of duties based on business needs.
Part-Time Employees: Employees who work an average of less than 36 hours are part-
time employees.
Scheduling
4. Requests for specific days off that vary from your normal availability must
be submitted in writing at least two weeks in advance. All schedule
requests are subject to management approval.
5
5. If you need a day off after the schedule is written, you will be required to
find your own replacement whose skills are comparable to your own.
These schedule changes must be reported to and approved by a
manager.
Reporting to Work
1. Employees must enter through the front door during business hours. If
you arrive at work before business hours, enter through the back doors.
2. If employees would like to eat before their scheduled shift begins, you are
permitted in the restaurant in uniform 1 hour before your shift.
3. You must be at your work area at your scheduled time. To facilitate this,
you may punch in 5 minutes before your assigned starting time. The
manager on duty must authorize a starting time that is earlier than this.
4. You are considered tardy for work if you fail to clock in on or within 5
minutes before your scheduled start time. If you determine that you will be
late, you must call the manager on duty to report your delay.
5. All employees who are paid by the hour must punch in and out on the time
clock. No hourly employee is permitted to work if he/she is not punched in
on the time clock. It is the employee’s responsibility to punch in and out in
order to maintain accurate records.
6. All employees who are paid by the hour are given a PIN number upon hire
for entering their time on the time clock. Employees are not permitted to
use another employee’s pin number for any reason.
Parking
1. A specific area of the parking lot has been provided for your car.
2. Employees are not permitted to park in spaces that are reserved for
Hoss’s guests.
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Reporting Off Work
The staffing of our restaurant is critical and time consuming. Each person who is placed
on the schedule is needed in order to make the shift for that day run smoothly. When a
scheduled member of the staff is absent, it causes disruption to the workday for the
manager and the staff. If you are unable to report for a scheduled shift, your supervisor
must be notified. Failing to report as outlined, may result in disciplinary action.
1. Reporting off work must only be done for necessary and legitimate
reasons.
2. If you are going to report off work, you must speak to the manager on
duty. An employee is not authorized to accept call-offs.
3. If possible, report off work at least 4 hours before the scheduled starting
time or the night before for opening shifts.
6. Hoss’s will consider you to have voluntarily abandoned your job if you do
not report to work and fail to contact your manager for three consecutive
days.
Leaving Work
1. Employees will exit through the front doors during business hours.
2. After the close of business, follow evening security procedures that are
established by your location.
Break Periods
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5. Employees are permitted to leave the store during their break if they
inform the shift manager when they are leaving and when they will return.
2. Use IRS Form 4070-A Employee Report of Tips to Employer to report tips
weekly by your last scheduled shift.
5. The law requires you to report 100 percent of the tips you receive.
Failure to report all tips may result in a tip allocation on your W-2.
Minor Employees
Certain requirements and restrictions apply to the employment of minors (ages 15, 16,
or 17), including the types of duties and the number of hours they can work. Due to
scheduling limitations, 14-year olds will not be hired.
1. Work Permits:
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be treated as adults, except the prohibited occupations restrictions
still apply until the individual turns 18.
a. School Weeks: No more than 8 hours per day, 28 hours per week,
or 16 hours per weekend. No work before 6:00 a.m. or after
midnight (after 1 a.m. on nights preceding non-school days).
b. Non-School Weeks: (Weeks when there are NO school days in that
week): No more than 8 hours per day, 44 hours per week, or 6
days per week. No work before 6:00 a.m. or after 1 a.m.
15 Year Olds
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4. Hours of Employment - Virginia
15 Year Olds
15 Year Olds
6. Mandatory Breaks
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Pay Periods
2. Hoss's has a ten-day processing time between the day payroll ends and
the actual date paychecks are issued. Hoss's does not hold an
employee's first paycheck. The following is an example of how a pay
cycle works.
Overtime
Paychecks
2. All employees must sign a roster sheet upon receipt of their check to verify
that the check has been received.
4. For your convenience, Hoss's offers a direct deposit plan. Direct deposit
allows employees to have their paycheck deposited into a checking,
savings, or credit union of their choice automatically on payday. The
direct deposit money is available at your bank on the morning of each
payday for your use. Check stubs will still be printed for your records.
For information, consult your manager or the Payroll Manager at the
Corporate Office.
5. If a paycheck is lost or stolen after the employee receives it, the employee
is responsible for any check cancellation and reissue fees. Contact your
manager or the Payroll Manager at the Corporate Office immediately.
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7. If a paycheck is in error for any reason, notify your manager or the Payroll
Manager at the Corporate Office before cashing the check. Errors will be
corrected on the next paycheck.
10. Each employee is responsible for any personal status changes that affect
paychecks. Correct personal information will ensure that your files are up-
to-date. Report any change in your name, address, telephone number,
direct deposit number, etc., to your manager immediately. To update tax
filing status, complete a new W-4 form.
11. Upon termination or resignation, final paychecks will be issued during the
next regular pay cycle, unless state laws dictate otherwise.
12. Retain copies of your check stubs for your records. These cannot be
duplicated.
1. Wage Grades
a. All employees will be compensated based on wage grade
guidelines. No employee’s compensation will exceed wage grade
guidelines under any circumstance.
b. Employees may be hired at a rate ranging from the bottom of the
grade to the midpoint based on General Manager’s discretion and
employee’s experience.
c. An employee whose rate reaches the top of the grade will remain at
that wage level until the grades are adjusted or the employee
moves to another job classification.
d. The Compensation Committee will review wage grades on a yearly
basis.
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2. Wage Increases and Evaluations
3. Job Classifications
a. The “Food Service” job classification consists of the following jobs:
— Dish Person
— Salad Bar Person
— Bus Person
— Host and Hostess
— Prep Person
b. The “Utility Person” job classification is applied to individuals who
are certified in three or more of the following areas of the restaurant
and are currently Certified Department Trainers (CDTs):
— Kitchen, Dish, Salad, Prep, Front of House, In-house
Maintenance
Resignation
Your immediate supervisor reserves the right to waive the two-week notice, grant
immediate resignation and acknowledge that adequate notice was given. Vacation
time may not be used as part of the two-week notice.
Hoss's Steak and Sea House may rehire past employees based on previous
performance and work history. Rehired employees will be considered new employees
with respect to seniority and benefits eligibility.
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Dress and Professional Appearance
Dresses, skirts, or business dress shorts of Dress slacks with a belt are required. Hoss's Steak and Sea House
appropriate length (one inch above knee); Dockers and dress corduroys are encourages shirts, sweaters, or
Use discretion in wearing clothing that is a acceptable. Jeans-style pants (for jackets that bear the Hoss logo.
respectable business length according to example, exterior rivets and pockets) are Hoss’s will provide specs for a
your height. unacceptable. local vendor to perform the
Dress slacks must be ankle length or longer Dress shirts with short or long-sleeves embroidery work. Hoss’s will
(not rolled up). Stirrup pants, stretch pants, are required. assume the embroidering cost if a
jeans-style (for example, exterior rivets and A tie is optional by store location. The manager chooses that option.
pockets), or sweatshirt material pants are General Manager of each location will Embroidered Hoss-logo denim
unacceptable. make this decision. If a tie is worn, the button shirts are acceptable.
Stockings or pantyhose must be neutral in top button must be buttoned. If a tie is Golf or polo shirts are not
color or match the color of the outfit worn. not worn, only the top button of the shirt acceptable for a manager.
Blouses and shirts with short or long sleeves may be unbuttoned. Each location also has the choice
are required. Sleeveless tops or tank-top Sport jackets and sweaters are to incorporate an approved
blouses are not permitted. acceptable. uniform program for the
Jackets and sweaters are acceptable. Socks are required management team that is
Safety shoes Safety Shoes administered through a third party.
The manager dress code is at the
expense of each individual
manager.
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2. All employees must be in appropriate dress at the time they clock in and at
all times while on duty. Employees must report to and from work in full
work attire.
6. Hair must be restrained in food production areas and the dish room.
Ponytails should be restrained twice, if necessary. All hair must be pulled
away from face if it is below the earlobe. Hair must be restrained even if
wearing a hat.
7. Nail polish and artificial fingernails are not permitted in any food
production area of the restaurant. Employees working in non-food
production areas may wear clear polish and acrylic nails.
8. Employees must wear approved safety shoes at all times while on duty.
Shoes should follow the style guidelines for the work area.
9. Name tags must be worn at all times when in uniform. If wearing a hat, it
should be placed on the hat. All other nametags should be displayed on
the left-hand side of the shirt.
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Safety Shoe Program
In an effort to better protect our employees and create a safer working environment for
everyone, Hoss’s Steak and Sea House has instituted a company-wide slip-resistant
safety shoe policy. We have made every effort to design this policy to be flexible with
the ability to meet our employees’ needs both on and off the job.
1. Requirements
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e. Style requirements:
Shoes must meet these style requirements even if you are wearing
an overshoe.
f. Special Requirements
2. Failure to Comply
a. Employees who are not wearing approved safety shoes will not be
permitted to work in a Hoss’s restaurant until they obtain the proper
footwear. Willful refusal to comply with this policy could result in
disciplinary action up to and including termination.
b. Any employee experiencing a slip and fall accident who was not
wearing approved slip-resistant shoes will be subject to disciplinary
action.
b. For employees who work in wet areas who are purchasing the less-
expensive safety shoes, we suggest buying two pairs and wearing
them every other workday to allow each pair to dry thoroughly.
c. If you are having difficulty with the support or comfort your safety
shoes are providing, you can purchase special insoles or arch
supports at a local shoe store.
Tobacco Use
Smoking is only permitted in areas outside of the restaurant. Since restaurant designs
vary, each General Manager will approve designated smoking areas. This rule also
applies to the use of any form of smokeless tobacco.
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Telephone Use
2. Use of personal cell phones is not permitted while employees are on the
clock.
The documents listed below are posted in the Employee Information Center. These
documents are clearly visible for all employees to read. If you need clarification
concerning any of these matters, contact Hoss’s Human Resources Department.
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Use of Personal Vehicle
When your personal vehicle must be used for company business you must:
3. Complete and turn in an expense report each month to your supervisor for
reimbursement.
Dating Policy
2. Since Hoss's has no specific policy that forbids Hoss’s employees to date
each other, we ask that you carefully consider the consequences of this
practice, since it often results in unrest and turmoil in the workplace.
If you are injured or have an accident while working, it is your responsibility to report this
to the manager on duty by the end of the shift. An Employee Accident Report will be
completed. In Pennsylvania, if medical treatment is required, employees must treat with
a physician who is listed on the physician panel posted in the employee information
center for 90 days. Employees in Virginia must also treat with a physician from the list
of providers that is posted in the employee information center.
If requested, employees will be permitted to examine their personnel file and/or obtain a
copy of the materials therein. Advance notice in writing is required.
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Complaint Procedures
Complaints will be handled in such a way that they enhance working conditions and
provide resolutions to employee problems. The procedures shall be used without fear of
reprisal or employment security.
You are encouraged to discuss with management any and all problems that you may
have in connection with your work. Remember that many times your manager may be
unaware of certain problems, and unless you call them to his/her attention, they may go
by unnoticed and uncorrected. If the situation is not resolved, the employee may
contact the District Manager or Human Resources Department. Note: You should
report any incidents of harassment or discrimination immediately to your General
Manager, the District Manager, or the Human Resources Department.
You may contact the Human Resources Department for any reason via Hoss’s
telephone hotline at 1-800-621-0270 ext. 2345 or via e-mail at people@hosscorp.com.
Both methods of communication are confidential.
Failure to comply with any rules, guidelines, or procedures in this handbook will result in
disciplinary action. The following is a list of behaviors that may not be included in other
sections of this handbook. These behaviors, if they occur, will result in disciplinary
action. This list is not exhaustive of the types of behavior that may result in disciplinary
action, but rather is provided as a guide to employees to identify areas of concern to
management. Management retains the right to discipline, including dismissal, for any
behavior, whether related to job performance or otherwise, which adversely affects the
reputation or business activities of our company.
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BENEFITS
Meal Discounts
1. Employees are eligible for meals at a 50% discount, all the time, at any
Hoss location.
Holidays
2. It is not Hoss’s policy to pay holiday pay; however, full-time employees will
be given preference in scheduling during holiday weeks.
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Benefits with Eligibility and Enrollment Requirements
Medical (PPO – Single Coverage – Pre-Tax Full-Time 1st of month following 90-day probationary
Includes Drug) EE 27% / CO 73% of Payroll and period or at annual open enrollment
total premium Deduction Management
Family Coverage –
EE 23% / CO 77% of
total premium
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Contribution Payment Eligible
Benefit Description (Employee–EE Method Employees Enrollment Requirements & Time
Company–CO)
Group Life/ADD CO – 100% N/A Full-Time 1st of month following 90-day probationary
Insurance and period or at annual open enrollment
Management
(Life Benefit – annual
salary; ADD Benefit –
two times annual
salary)
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Contribution Payment Eligible
Benefit Description (Employee–EE Method Employees Enrollment Requirements & Time
Company–CO)
25
Contribution Payment Eligible
Benefit Description (Employee–EE Method Employees Enrollment Requirements & Time
Company–CO)
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Leave Benefits
Benefit Eligible
Description Employees Enrollment Requirements & Time
Any vacation time not used before the end of the year in which it was
issued will be forfeited
Short-Term Management Protects employee from wage loss due to disability for a period of 24 weeks
Disability (CO – 100% of premium) after a 14-day waiting period
Insurance
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Benefit Eligible
Description Employees Enrollment Requirements & Time
Long-Term Management Protects employee from wage loss due to disability for period of disability
Disability (CO – 100% of premium) extending beyond 24 weeks until the age of 65 years
Insurance
Personal All Employees With management approval, all employees may be eligible for a leave of
Leave of absence without pay for personal reasons for a maximum of 12 weeks. All
Absence benefits cease and vacation time is not earned during the personal leave of
absence.
All Employees Employees may request a leave of absence for Jury Duty. Upon receipt of
Jury Duty proof of jury duty, Hoss's will pay the difference between the amount
received for jury duty and regular pay for that period (which is based on
average hours worked over the previous 6 months). Servers will be paid
regular rate during jury duty.
Full-Time and Management Up to 3 days off with pay for employee and spouse’s immediate family
(spouse, parents, children, brothers sisters); employees receive pay for 8
hours each day; unpaid days are allotted for others who are not immediate
Bereavement family.
Part-Time Up to 3 days off with pay for employee and spouse’s immediate family
(spouse, parents, children, brothers, sisters); employees receive pay based
on average hours worked in most recent six-month period; unpaid days are
allotted for others who are not immediate family.
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Benefit Eligible
Description Employees Enrollment Requirements & Time
Military All Employees Military leave will be granted and reinstatement made in compliance with
Leave the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act
(USERRA). Contact Hoss’s Human Resource Department for complete
information regarding the USERRA law.
During the leave, you will normally be covered by the military’s health plan
and your dependents will be covered 31 days later. Hoss’s will continue
insurance benefits so that no lapse in coverage occurs during the initial
period.
Reserve duty and short-term leaves will be granted unpaid. Vacation time
may be used.
Leaves of absence will also be granted without pay for training, enlistment
in the National Guard, refresher courses, and local, state, and national
disasters.
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POLICIES
Prohibited Conduct
Hoss’s does not tolerate any type of workplace violence committed by or against
employees. Employees are prohibited from making threats or engaging in violent
activities. This list of behaviors, while not inclusive, provides examples of conduct that
is prohibited.
Reporting Procedures
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Individual Situations
Dangerous/Emergency Situations
Enforcement
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Unlawful Harassment
1. Statement of Philosophy
2. Dissemination of Policy
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3. Definition of Harassment
d. Any and all other words of conduct which have the effect of
unreasonably interfering with an individual’s performance or
creating a hostile or offensive work environment.
4. Complaint Procedure
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privacy safeguards will be applied in handling all complaints. No
person named in a complaint of unlawful harassment shall be
involved in conducting or supervising the investigation. Depending
upon the circumstances and the nature of a particular complain of
unlawful harassment, the follow-up investigation may be conducted
by a designated manager who would be acting under the direction
of the investigator.
c. Procedures
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investigator either during the investigation or after they receive the
notice of the findings. No attorneys are to be present.
5. Disposition of Complaint
e. Neither the charging party nor the person accused will receive a
copy of the final report; however, the findings will be reviewed at
the request of either party.
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i. Unlawful harassment charges which are, or have been, in litigation,
are beyond the scope of the investigator.
6. Conclusion
Hoss’s Steak and Sea House has developed this policy to insure that its
employees can work in an environment free from unlawful harassment.
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Family Medical Leave Policy
1. General Provisions
2. In order to qualify to take family and medical leave under this policy, the
employee must meet all of the following conditions:
b. The employee must have worked at least 1250 hours during the 12-
month period immediately before the date when the leave would
begin.
3. In order to qualify for FMLA leave under this policy, the employee must be
taking the leave for one of the reasons listed below:
Employees with questions about what illnesses are covered under this
FMLA policy or under the company's leave policy are encouraged to
consult with the Human Resources Department.
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The company may require an employee to provide a doctor's certification
of the serious health condition. The certification process is outlined in
“Certification of a Serious Health Condition.”
All leave designated as FMLA leave must meet all the necessary
qualifications.
If a husband and wife both work for the company, and each wishes to take
leave for the birth of a child, adoption or placement of a child in foster
care, or to care for a parent (but not a parent "in-law") with a serious
health condition, the husband and wife may only take a total of 12 weeks
of leave.
If the employee chooses not to return to work for reasons other than a
continued serious health condition, the company will require the employee
to reimburse the company the amount it paid for the employee's health
insurance premium during the leave period.
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Under current company policy, the employee pays a portion of the health
care premium. While on paid leave, the employer will continue to make
payroll deductions to collect the employee's share of the premium. While
on unpaid leave, the employee must continue to make this payment, either
in person or by mail. The Human Resources Department will send an
invoice monthly after payroll is completed for the month. If the payment is
not made on the due date specified on the invoice, the employee's health
coverage may be cancelled for nonpayment. It is the employee’s
responsibility to continue to fund employee-funded benefits (dental and
vision).
At the end of the leave period, an employee who takes leave under this
policy will be able to return to the same job or a job with equivalent status,
pay, benefits and other employment terms.
The employee may take FMLA leave in 12 consecutive weeks, may use
the leave intermittently (take a day periodically when needed over the
year), or under certain circumstances may use the leave to reduce the
work week or work day, resulting in a reduced hour schedule. In all cases,
the leave may not exceed a total of 12 weeks over a 12-month period.
For the birth, adoption or foster care of a child, the company and the
employee must mutually agree to the schedule before the employee may
take the leave intermittently or work a reduced-hour schedule. Leave for
birth, adoption or foster care of a child must be taken within one year of
the birth or placement of the child.
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7. Certification of Serious Health Condition
The company may ask for certification of the serious health condition
(form #SF05). The employee should try to respond to such a request
within 15 days of the request, or provide a reasonable explanation for the
delay. Failure to provide certification may result in a denial of continuation
of leave.
Certification of the serious health condition shall include: the date when
the condition began, its expected duration, diagnosis, and a brief
statement of treatment. For medical leave for the employee’s own
medical condition, the certification must also include a statement that the
employee is unable to perform the essential functions of the employee’s
position. For a seriously ill family member, the certification must include a
statement that the patient requires assistance and the employees’
presence would be beneficial or desirable.
The company has the right to ask for a second opinion if it has reason to
doubt the certification. The company will pay for the employee to get a
certification from a second doctor, which the company will select.
When an employee plans to take leave under this policy, the employee
must give the company 30 days notice. If it is not possible to give 30 days
notice, the employee must give as much notice as is practical. An
employee undergoing planned medical treatment is required to make a
reasonable effort to schedule the treatment to minimize disruptions to the
company’s operations.
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If an employee fails to provide 30 days notice for foreseeable leave with
no reasonable excuse for the delay, the leave request may be denied until
at least 30 days from the date the employer receives notice.
iii. Will discontinue all benefits and extend COBRA and other
portability provisions.
11. For the purpose of this policy, the following definitions apply:
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(e.g., physical therapist) on referral by or under orders of a health care
provider; (3) at least one treatment by health care provider (e.g., a
program of medication or therapy) that results in regimen of continuing
treatment under the supervision of the health care provider; or (4) under
the supervision of, although not actively treated by, a health care provider
for a serious long-term or chronic condition or disability which can not be
cured (e.g., Alzheimer’s or severe stroke).
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Ethics and Integrity
In our business dealings, we may be faced with ethical and legal questions. This is a
guide to general questions and concerns that may arise. Since it is difficult, if not
impossible to include every situation that may occur, it is imperative that you consult
your immediate supervisor if you have any question regarding your latitude for decisions
in this area
Communication
If you are aware of an unlawful or unethical situation, you are responsible for reporting it
to your immediate supervisor when possible. You may also report to higher levels of
management. Reports of unlawful or unethical practices will be investigated promptly.
Hoss's will not tolerate any threats or acts of retribution toward you for reporting these
incidents.
Workplace
We work hard to earn and maintain high standards and respect for our business name.
You are a very important part of this. We expect you to deal honestly and fairly with our
guests, other employees, suppliers, and the community. Any actions on or off the job
that Hoss’s management determines adversely affect your performance, the
performance of other employees, or the legitimate business interests of our company
will be addressed. If it is determined that the employee has engaged in unlawful or
unethical behavior, disciplinary action will be taken up to and including dismissal.
Privacy
Hoss's will not tolerate dishonest practices. This includes but is not limited to hours
worked, expense reports, deception of numbers, unlawful taking of property of Hoss's,
its employees, guests, or suppliers. Disciplinary action will be taken against any
offender up to and including dismissal. Applicable evidence will be turned over to the
proper authorities for prosecution under the law. Full restitution will be required.
Documentation will be entered into your personnel file.
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Suppliers/Contractors
We are committed to being aggressive in pursuing the best products and services for
our dollar spent. This must be the guiding factor in dealing with suppliers and
contractors. Personal relationships or the potential for personal gain must be set aside
to make objective decisions. We expect you to be fair and impartial in your dealings
with outside concerns.
Memberships
Confidential Information
Many of you will come in contact with proprietary and confidential information. It is
incumbent upon each of us to maintain strict confidence with such information entrusted
to us. Competitors or other groups may attempt to learn about matters, which could be
used to the detriment of the company and all employees. Releasing confidential
information to unauthorized individuals will result in immediate termination.
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Electronics Policy
Purpose
To remain competitive, better serve our customers, and give our talented workforce the
best tools to do their jobs. Hoss’s continues to adopt and make use of new means of
communication and information exchange. This means that many of our employees
have access to one or more forms of electronic media and services, including but not
limited to, computers, e-mail, telephones, voice mail, fax machines, external electronic
bulletin boards, wire services, on-line services, the Internet, and the World Wide Web.
Hoss’s encourages the use of these media and associated services because they can
make communication more efficient and effective and because they are valuable
sources of information about vendors, customers, technology, and new products and
services. However, all employees and everyone connected with the organization
should remember that electronic media and services provided by the company are
company property and their purpose is to facilitate and support company business.
This policy cannot lay down rules to cover every possible situation. Instead, it is
designed to express Hoss’s philosophy and set forth general principles employees
should apply when using electronic media and services. The following procedures
apply to all electronic media and services that are:
Prohibited Communications
Electronic media cannot be used for knowingly transmitting, retrieving, or storing any
communication that is:
1. Discriminating or harassing
2. Derogatory to any individual or group
3. Obscene
4. Defamatory or threatening
5. Considered a chain letter
6. Engaged in for any purpose that is illegal or contrary to Hoss’s policy or
business interests
Personal Use
Electronic media and services are provided by Hoss’s primarily for employees’ business
use. Limited, occasional, or incidental use of electronic media (sending or receiving) for
personal, nonbusiness purposes is understandable and acceptable. However,
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employees are expected to demonstrate a sense of responsibility and not abuse this
privilege. It is not appropriate to subscribe to non-business related mailing lists where
information is automatically sent to your e-mail address.
1. Cost analysis
2. Resource allocation
3. Optimum technical management or information resources
4. Detecting patterns of use that indicate employees are violating Hoss’s
policies or engaging in illegal activity
Hoss’s reserves the right, at its discretion, to review any employee’s electronic files and
messages to the extent necessary to ensure electronic media and services are being
used in compliance with the law, this policy, and other Hoss Policies.
Security/Appropriate Use
No e-mail or other electronic communications can be sent that attempt to hide the
identity of the sender or represent the sender as someone else.
Electronic media and services should not be used in a manner that is likely to cause
network congestion or significantly hamper the ability of other people to access and use
the system.
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Please use discretion when sending electronic messages to “groups”. Limit addresses
to those who the information pertains to.
Employees should include the following disclaimer in all of their postings to public
forums:
“The views, opinions, and judgments expressed in this message are solely those
of the author. The message contents have not been reviewed or approved by
Hoss’s.”
Employees should note that even with the disclaimer, a connection with Hoss’s exists
and a statement could be imputed legally to Hoss’s. Therefore, employees should not
rely on disclaimers as a way of insulating Hoss’s from the comments and opinions they
contribute to forums, Instead, employees must limit their discussion to matters of fact
and avoid expressing opinions while using Hoss’s systems or a company-provided
account. Communications must not otherwise violate this or other Hoss’s policies.
Policy Violations
Employees violating Hoss’s electronic media or services policy are subject to discipline,
up to and including termination. Employees using the electronic media or services for
defamatory, illegal, or fraudulent purposes and employees who break into unauthorized
areas of Hoss’s computer system also are subject to civil liability and criminal
prosecution.
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Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy
The objective of this policy is to inform employees of this company's position on the use
and abuse of drugs, alcohol and/or other controlled substances, and to advise them of the
actions which will be imposed for violations of these Guidelines.
These drug and alcohol testing rules are intended to protect the safety of the workers and
general public by ensuring that employees do not use drugs or misuse alcohol. This
policy is not, does not represent, and should not be taken as a contract for
employment. Violation of this policy may result in disciplinary action up to and including
termination.
Any questions regarding this policy or the drug and alcohol testing program and
procedures may be directed to: Phil Sukenik at (814) 695-7600
This policy applies to all applicants and employees of HOSS’S STEAK AND SEA
HOUSE. A separate policy applies to all employees subject to the DOT Regulations,
such as Truck Drivers.
Accident -- For the purpose of this Policy an accident is defined as an incident involving
an employee in which there is either a "fatality" or an injury to any person, as a result of
the accident, requiring treatment away from the workplace or scene of the accident, or
damage to a Company vehicle whereby it is disabled and is required to be towed from the
scene of the accident.
Alcohol means any alcoholic beverage (beer, wine, liquor, etc.) or over-the-counter or
prescription medication containing alcohol, the consumption of which may affect the
behavior, performance and actions of the employee to the extent that he may pose a
threat to the safety of himself or others, and/or manifests itself with a blood alcohol level
of .02 or greater.
Controlled substances or Illegal drugs means any controlled substance or drug, the sale,
possession or consumption of which is illegal. The term includes prescription drugs not
legally obtained and prescription drugs not being used in the manner, combination or
quantity prescribed. It also includes any drug or substance listed under the controlled
substance Drug Device and Cosmetic Act 64. Drugs specifically being tested for include
amphetamines, marijuana, opiates, cocaine, and phencyclidine (PCP).
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testing. The Medical Review Officer is familiar with the characteristics of drug tests
(sensitivity, specificity, and predictive value), the laboratories running the tests and the
medical conditions and work exposures of the employees. The role of the Medical
Review Officer will be to review and interpret the positive test results.
Negative Test Result in drug testing, means a result, reviewed by an MRO and
determined to have no evidence of prohibited drug use. In alcohol testing, means a
confirmation test result of less than 0.02.
Positive Test Result in drug testing, means a drug test result reviewed by a MRO and
verified to have evidence of prohibited drug use. In alcohol testing, means a confirmation
test result of 0.02 or greater.
Under the Influence means, for the purpose of this Policy, the employee is affected by a
drug or alcohol, or the combination of a drug and alcohol, in any detectable manner. A
determination of whether an employee is under the influence of drugs or alcohol will be
based on specific contemporaneous, articulable observations concerning the
appearance, behavior, speech or body odors of the employee.
4. Employees may not refuse to submit to any alcohol test required under this
policy.
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Drug Prohibitions: Prohibited Conduct
1. Illegal or illicit drug use while on duty or while off duty is prohibited.
As required by this policy, employees may be subject to drug and/or alcohol testing in the
following situations:
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1. Pre-Employment Testing (Management Positions): Drugs only
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3. Post-Accident Testing/Drugs and Alcohol
5. Follow-Up Testing:
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6. Confirmation Reanalysis of Test Results
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b. Positive Alcohol Tests
For all other types of drug testing, if the employee is still unable to
provide an adequate specimen, the MRO will refer the employee for
a medical evaluation. If the MRO determines that there is no
legitimate medical explanation for the employee's failure to provide
an adequate amount of urine, this will constitute a refusal to test and
be handled in the same manner as a positive test.
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8. Specimen Adulteration: MRO / Company Guidelines
In the event the MRO receives a laboratory report indicating the possibility
of specimen adulteration, the MRO shall follow procedures outlined below
to review and interpret the laboratory report.
a. Specific Gravity < 1.003 and Creatinine < 0.2 G / L : The MRO will
report the laboratory findings, including negative and cancelled tests,
to the SAPM (Substance Abuse Program Manager). The Company
may require the donor's next urine specimen to be collected under
direct observation procedures. A dilute (specific gravity < 1.003 And
creatinine < 0.2 G / L) may require the individual to submit to another
urine specimen collection and test.
b. Specimen not suitable:
In specimen not suitable reports, the MRO should first discuss the
test result with the appropriate laboratory forensic toxicologist to
obtain more facts or documentation. The MRO should then contact
the employee/applicant and inform him/her that the urine specimen
was not suitable for testing, and will inquire whether medication (e.g.
non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents) or another medical
explanation may account for the specimen's unsuitability. If no
acceptable explanation for the unsuitability is provided, the MRO will
inform the employee/applicant that another urine specimen will be
collected under direct observation procedures. The MRO will also
report the result to the Company and inform the Company that
another urine specimen collection under direct observation is
required. If there is an acceptable explanation for the unsuitability
the MRO will report the specimen as cancelled.
c. Specimen adulterated:
The MRO will report the result as "specimen adulterated" to the
Human Resource Director and inform the Human Resources
Director that the laboratory finding constitutes a refusal to submit to
testing. Under this policy, this requires that the employee be
removed from performing any job function.
Employee’s who are observed engaging in prohibited behavior or tested at .02 or greater
for alcohol or positive for controlled substances, are subject to the following
consequences:
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2. If a decision is made to continue employment:
a. EAP professionals will provide an assessment to develop a
mandatory rehabilitation program and monitor employee’s progress.
b. Leave of absence will be granted upon employee’s request under
the guidelines of the Leave of Absence Policy.
c. Retesting program upon EAP’s certification of a rehabilitation
program – this will include testing for at least one year.
3. Financial Consequences:
a. Only first offenders will receive financial assistance.
b. Hoss’s will pay for the expense of all initial testing.
c. Benefits will continue/discontinue under the guidelines of the Leave
of Absence Policy.
d. All uninsured medical and related expenses are the responsibility of
the employee during rehabilitation.
e. Refer to current medical insurance booklet for inpatient/outpatient
coverage for drug treatment.
f. Expenses of ongoing screening as part of the rehabilitation program
will be the responsibility of the employee.
6. Confidentiality:
Any information regarding positive test results will be processed
through the Director of Human Resources. Only those with a need
to know (for example, immediate supervisor for scheduling changes,
Employee Assistance Program counselor for assessment) will have
access to this confidential information.
Refusal to submit to an alcohol or drug test will result in immediate termination. Refusal
to submit to an alcohol or controlled substance (drug) test means that an employee:
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3. Engages in uncooperative conduct that clearly obstructs the testing
process,
5. Misuses alcohol between initial and confirmatory test and/or refuses to take
the confirmatory test.*
6. Arrive late or does not arrive at all, at the collection site, without an
acceptable and verifiable excuse.
Certified Laboratories
All urine drug tests conducted pursuant to this policy shall be performed by laboratories
that meet the certification requirements under the Department of Health and Human
Services' Mandatory Guidelines for Federal Drug Testing Programs (SAMHSA Certified
Labs).
All time spent providing a breath and/or urine sample, including travel time to and from
the collection site in order to comply with post-accident, or negative reasonable suspicion
tests, shall be considered as work time, and the employee will receive his or her regular
compensation for such time.
Cost of Testing
1. The cost of the initial urine drug and breath alcohol testing, unless
otherwise provided for in the Agreement, shall be borne by the Company.
2. The costs of any confirmatory drug tests sent to another DHHS/SAMHSA
certified lab, as requested by the employee will be paid for by that
employee. However, if the tests prove negative, costs shall be borne by the
Company.
3. Costs of any Return-to-Duty and/or Follow-Up Testing performed will be
paid for by the employee.
All employees are hereby advised that full compliance with the Company's
controlled substance and alcohol policies shall be a pre-condition of
employment and a condition of continued employment at this Company.
Any employee who violates this policy shall be subject to discipline up to
and including immediate discharge, even for the first offense.
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This policy supersedes any written policies issued as, or included in,
manuals, handouts, or individual policies, prior to this date. This policy is
effective Immediately upon receipt by the employee. This policy is subject
to changes, revisions, etc., without prior notice, depending on policy
requirements.
5. Any other costs not covered by the insurance carrier will be the
responsibility of the employee.
As part of its commitment to provide safe conditions to the public and its employees, the
Company maintains an EAP through EAP Services, a division of the The Lytle
Corporation. This program provides information, resources and counseling concerning
the effects and consequences of alcohol and drug use on an individual’s health, work,
and personal life and information on the signs and symptoms of an alcohol or drug
problem.
Conscientious efforts to seek help through the Employee Assistance Program will be held
in the strictest confidence and will not jeopardize any employee’s job or future
advancement.
In addition, the EAP provides referral services to employees and their families seeking
help with problems resulting from alcohol misuse and drug use.
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Rehabilitation Self-Referrals
An employee who recognizes that he/she may have or is developing a drug or alcohol
problem may seek voluntary assistance through the Employee Assistance Program.
Voluntary participation in the EAP or a rehabilitation program may not be used to
circumvent disciplinary action, nor can the enrollment in the rehabilitation program be
made on the day of a drug or alcohol test. Continued employment following rehabilitation
is conditional upon satisfactory completion of the rehabilitation program and the
Company's after-care program, including the Company's mandated Return-To-Duty and
Follow-Up testing along with evaluation and certification by the Company's Substance
Abuse Professional before returning to work. All costs associated with any further
rehabilitation or treatment program that is not part of the EAP shall be paid for by the
employee, if it is not covered under the Company's insurance policy. Employees who
submit to Voluntary Rehabilitation Program will be entitled to the same programs and
benefits previously listed for anyone failing a drug or alcohol test.
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