PGC Employee Handbook V.110817.markup
PGC Employee Handbook V.110817.markup
PGC Employee Handbook V.110817.markup
Global Consulting, Inc. (“PGC”). Please review it and complete acknowledgement via Docusign on the first
page. This handbook supersedes all prior handbooks that the employee has received in the past by PGC.
Attached to this handbook, or as a separate document, you may find a state-specific “Appendix”. This
Appendix lists state and/or local regulations and employment laws pertaining to your work location.
These laws and regulations will act as PGC policy where the Employee Handbook is silent on matters or
where law differs from that stated in the Handbook. Note that not all states will have a corresponding
Appendix.
Any questions about PGC policies or the Employee Handbook can be answered by emailing
WorkforceSolutions@pgcgroup.com or calling 1.866.677.8060
This Handbook is designed to acquaint employees with PGC and provide information about working
conditions, employee benefits, and some of the policies that may affect your employment with PGC.
This Handbook is not a contract and is not intended to create any contractual or legal obligations.
Employees should read, understand, and comply with all provisions of the Employee Handbook. It
describes many of the employee’s responsibilities and outlines the programs developed by PGC to
benefit employees. It is our hope to create a comfortable environment and relationship among our
employees, PGC Clients, and our internal staff.
PGC is your employer. All references to your Account Manager mean your Workforce Solutions Team
Specialist unless otherwise specified. No Handbook can anticipate every circumstance or question
about policy. As PGC continues to grow, the need may arise and PGC reserves the right to revise,
supplement, or rescind any policies or portion of the Handbook from time to time as it deems
appropriate, in its sole and absolute discretion. The only exception is our employment-at-will policy
permitting an employee or PGC to end the relationship for any reason at any time (see 1.1). Employees
will, of course, be notified of such changes to the Handbook as they occur.
Many matters covered in this handbook, such as benefit plan descriptions, are also described in
separate PGC documents. These PGC documents are always controlling over any statement made in this
handbook or by any member of management.
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1. Table of Contents
INTRODUCTORY STATEMENT........................................................................................................................ 5
3. TERMINATION ..................................................................................................................................... 11
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3.5 References .................................................................................................................................. 12
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5.8 Workplace Violence Prevention.................................................................................................. 23
6.6 Grievances................................................................................................................................... 26
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For those of you who are commencing employment with PGC, we would like to extend a warm and
sincere welcome. Thank you for joining our team of professionals.
At PGC, our mission is to provide our clients with services which we refer to as “Extreme Value”. With
your dedication, perseverance, and contributions to the team, we will achieve our goal of delivering
these value-added services to our clients. Our clients depend on PGC to help them achieve their goals
and objectives. We have experienced a high success rate with the contributions of individuals like
yourself. Since the inception of our company, our objective has been to simply be the best at what we
do. We have made incredible strides towards that goal thanks to our employees.
Maintaining a positive relationship between our employees and our clients is one of PGC’s most
valuable assets. Every employee represents PGC to our clients and the public. Employees’ personal
contact with the public, manners at a worksite, and the communications with Clients and/or Client
customers are a reflection not only of themselves, but also of the professionalism of PGC. Positive client
relations not only enhance the public’s perception or image of PGC, but also pay off in greater client
loyalty and increased opportunities for PGC and its employees.
Moving forward, we hope your relationship with PGC is productive, long-term, and satisfying. Should
you need any assistance, please do not hesitate to reach out to your PGC Workforce Solutions Team
Specialist.
Best Regards,
PGC
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1. EMPLOYMENT WITH PGC
These provisions supersede all existing policies and practices and may not be amended or added to
without the express written approval of the CEO or person designated and authorized by the CEO of
PGC.
All information provided in the Schedule, Work Order or Assignment Letter supersedes the employment
agreement if it differs. This document may include specific requirement of the Client that employee will
abide by including but not limited to hours required, leave benefits, termination requirements, etc.
PGC is normally open for business from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. However, work
schedules for employees vary throughout our organization. Employee’s work schedule and expected
hours will be verified by the Client and provided to the employee for each project. Staffing needs and
operational demands may necessitate variations in starting and ending times, as well as variations in the
total hours that may be scheduled each day and week. Employees are entitled to any federal or state
required break periods, including any legally required break time for nursing mothers.
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1.3 Employment Categories
It is the intent of PGC to clarify the definitions of employment classifications so that employees
understand their employment status and benefit eligibility. These classifications do not guarantee
employment for any specified period of time. Accordingly, the right to terminate the employment
relationship at will at any time is retained by both the employee and PGC.
All non-exempt employees must receive permission from Client in order to work overtime
hours. Failure to receive permission or the falsification of worked hours can result in disciplinary
action including termination. Overtime compensation is paid to all nonexempt employees at
1.5x their regular rate for all hours worked in excess of 40 hours per week, unless state or local
laws require otherwise. Overtime is based on actual hours worked. For purposes of calculating
overtime for NONEXEMPT employees, the workweek begins on Monday and ends on Sunday,
unless otherwise specified. Time taken for meals is not included as time worked for purposes of
overtime. Holidays, sick leave, vacation leave, personal leave, or any other leave of absence will
not be factored in as hours when calculating overtime.
Under federal and state law, an employee’s salary is subject to certain deductions. For example,
unless state law requires otherwise, salary can be reduced for the following reasons:
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• Family and Medical Leave absences (either full- or partial- day absences)
• To offset amounts received as payment for jury and witness fees or military pay
• The first or last week of employment in the event you work less than a full week
• Any full work week in which employee do not perform any work
Employee’s salary may also be reduced for certain types of deductions such as their portion of
health, dental or life insurance premiums, federal, state, or local taxes, social security, or
voluntary contributions to a 401(k) or pension plan.
In any work week in which employee performed any work, salary will not be reduced for any of
the following reasons:
• Partial day absences for personal reasons, sickness or disability
• Absence on a day because Client has decided to close a facility on a scheduled work day
• Absences for jury duty, attendance as a witness, or military leave in any week in which
employee has performed any work
• Any other deductions prohibited by state or federal law.
However, unless state law provides otherwise, deductions may be made to employee’s accrued
leave for full or partial day absences for personal reasons, sickness, or disability.
If it is unclear as to whether an employee should contact a PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist or
Client Manager, always feel free to contact a PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist for clear
direction. The following are examples of when to contact PGC directly:
1. If employee is requested to perform any duties other than the ones described to
employee when he/she accepted the assignment
2. Upon the completion of the project contact a PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist
3. If employee is injured while on a project
4. If a client offers employee a full-time position
5. If employee changes name, telephone number, or address
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6. If employee believes he/she is experiencing any type of harassment, unlawful
discrimination, or discrimination prohibited by PGC policy while on a project with a
Client
7. If employee has a complaint or dispute about your pay, exemption status, assignment,
or working conditions
In compliance with the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, each new employee, as a condition
of employment, must complete the Employment Eligibility Verification Form I-9 and present
documentation establishing identity and employment eligibility. If the I-9 is completed by agents
authorized by PGC to complete the form on PGC’s behalf outside of the PGC Headquarters in NYC, the
completed I-9 must be returned to PGC within 3 days of the start of employment. Former employees
who are rehired must also complete the form if they have not completed an I-9 with PGC within the past
three years, or if their previous I-9 is no longer retained or valid.
Employees with questions or seeking more information on immigration law issues are encouraged to
contact PGC. Employees may raise questions or complaints about immigration law compliance without
fear of reprisal.
2. PAYMENT TERMS
Employee must submit client-approved time sheets for all hours worked to
WorkforceSolutions@pgcgroup.com on a weekly basis unless otherwise agreed. Payment will be
determined based on the hours worked as stated on submitted timesheets including all regular and
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overtime hours. In order to ensure their paycheck is accurate employees must record their time
completely and without errors. Any errors in employee’s time record should be reported immediately
to PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist, who will attempt to correct legitimate errors.
In the event that a regularly scheduled payday falls on a day off, such as a weekend or holiday,
employees will receive pay on the last day of work before the regularly scheduled payday.
If a regular payday falls during an employee’s vacation, the employee will receive all wages on the
regular pay day during the vacation. Any complaints or disputes regarding your pay must be brought to
employee’s PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist.
In the unlikely event that there is an error in the amount of pay, employee should promptly bring the
discrepancy to the attention of your PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist so that investigation and
corrections can be made as quickly as possible.
In accordance with the Fair Labor Standards Act regulations (FLSA), exempt employees who are required
to be paid on a salary basis may not have their pay reduced for variations in the quantity or quality of
work performed and in accordance with the Safe Harbor Policy of this handbook (section 1.3.2).
Employees who feel their pay has been improperly reduced should report this immediately to their PGC
Workforce Solutions Team Specialist at WorkforceSolutions@pgcgroup.com. PGC will investigate the
complaint, take all steps necessary to ensure improper deductions are not made in the future, and will
not retaliate against an employee for making such a complaint.
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qualify for per diem, the employee must work more than 100 miles away from their residence and be
employed for a temporary period of time (less than 1 year), and complete the Declaration of Per
Diem/Salary Packaging Form provided by PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist. If employee meets
the eligibility requirements, employee will be able to reduce taxable income by the amount allowed
under the IRS guidelines.
If Client requires employee to travel, such travel must be approved in advance by Client Manager, must
be clearly defined as required travel, and must be submitted to PGC with documents of proof of travel.
Other expenses not approved by Client may be submitted to PGC in order to reduce taxable income.
PGC can deny the submitted expenses for any reasons.
3. TERMINATION
• End of contract – as per Client’s request, there is no longer a need for the Employee’s services
due to the completion of the project, adherence to contract End date, or any other reason as
determined by the Client.
If there are concerns with employee’s performance raised by PGC and/or Client or changes in the need
for employee’s services, it is within the power of PGC to terminate the employee.
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available for work. Failure to report your availability will be viewed as a voluntary resignation, and may
affect your ability to receive unemployment compensation.
Resignation is a voluntary act initiated by the employee to terminate employment with PGC. Although 2
weeks’ notice is requested by PGC, Client may require additional advance notice as described in
Schedule provided for each project. When resignation occurs, the employee must contact PGC
Workforce Solutions Team Specialist and provide information regarding last day of work for the Client.
Upon completion of an assignment or termination, all personal property should be gathered when
leaving the assignment. Any personal property left at the client worksite will be collected and returned
by a PGC representative. Prior to leaving Client worksite, or within 5 days of termination/completion for
employees who worksite outside of a Client worksite, employee must return all Client or PGC
proprietary equipment such as access badges, remote access equipment, computers, phones, etc. If the
equipment is lost or damaged when returned, the cost of equipment for replacement or repair will be
deducted from the employee’s final paycheck, to the extent permitted by law.
Upon termination, PGC and Client strictly prohibit employee to return to Client site or communicate
with Client or other PGC Employees at the Client site for any reason, unless otherwise allowed by the
Client.
• All accrued, vested benefits that are due and payable at termination will be paid.
• Some benefits may be continued at the employee’s expense if the employee so chooses.
• The employee will be notified in writing of the benefits that may be continued and of
the terms, conditions, and limitations of such continuance (See the “Benefits
Continuation (COBRA)” policy section 4.6).
3.5 References
PGC will respond to reference requests through the PGC Human Resources Department. PGC will
provide general information concerning the employee such as date of hire, date of termination, and
positions held. Requests for reference information must be in writing.
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4. BENEFITS PROVIDED TO EMPLOYEE
Benefits eligibility is dependent upon a variety of factors, including employee classification. A PGC
Workforce Solutions Team Specialist can identify the programs for which an employee is eligible.
Some benefit programs require contributions from the employee and/or may be dependent on
contribution from the Client. Many benefits are described in separate Summary Plan Descriptions, or
Plans, which may change from time to time. The Summary Plan Description will control over any policy
in this Handbook. Each employee will receive a copy of each Summary Plan Description applicable to
them. If employee needs a Summary Plan Description or has any questions, contact a PGC Workforce
Solutions Team Specialist.
1Serious Health condition: A serious health condition is an illness, injury, impairment or physical or mental condition that involves either an
overnight stay in a medical care facility or continuing treatment by a health care provider for a condition that either prevents employee from
performing the functions of the job, or prevents qualified family members from participating in school or daily activities. Continuing treatment
may be met by a period of incapacity of more than three (3) consecutive calendar days combined with at least two (2) visits to a health care
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4. a qualifying situation that may arise for a parent’s, child’s, spouse’s active duty or call to
active duty in support of a contingency operation,
5. up to a maximum of twenty-six (26) weeks in a case involving leave to care for a qualifying
recovering parent, child, spouse, or next of kin who is a service member of the armed
forces.
Employee may be entitled to additional leave in accordance with state law depending on the state
where employee is performing work for the Client. No greater or lesser leave benefits will be
granted than those provided by relevant state or federal laws, unless otherwise granted by Client.
In any case, employee will be eligible for the most generous benefits available under either federal
or state law.
Employee may substitute any accrued vacation or personal leave time for family and medical
leave. Employee’s total FMLA leave time, which may include paid time off if provided for by
client, may not exceed 12 weeks. PGC and/or the Client has the right to designate any accrued
vacation or personal leave, including but not limited to paid sick leave, paid time off, disability
leave, and workers compensation as absences running concurrently with FMLA.
In order for PGC to determine an employee’s eligibility for FMLA leave, the employee must make
a specific request for such leave. The criteria an employee must meet to qualify for FMLA leave
is as follows (additional criteria may apply):
• Eligibility requirements: Employee must have been employed by PGC for at least 12
months and worked at least 1,250 hours in the preceding 12 months and at a worksite with
at least 50 employees within 75 miles. Please note, that not all employees will meet
eligibility requirements for FMLA. Employee is to contact PGC at
WorkforceSolutions@pgcgroup.com to find out if he/she is eligible for FMLA based on
location of employment and length of service as a PGC employee. Additionally, leave due
to the birth or placement of a child in your home for adoption or foster care must be taken
in one continuous 12-week segment and must be taken within 12 months of the birth or
placement of the child.
• Notice and Certification required: If need for leave is foreseeable, employee must provide
PGC and Client 30 days prior notice of intention to take FMLA leave. If leave is not
foreseeable, employee must request leave as soon as possible and no later than 2 business
days after the need for leave arises. Employee must submit appropriate documentation
supporting own serious health condition and the length of such condition (from a physician
or practitioner), or documentation supporting immediate family member’s own serious
health condition, and length of such condition (from a physician or practitioner), or
provider or one visit and a regimen of continuing treatment, or incapacity due to pregnancy, or incapacity due to a chronic condition. Other
conditions may meet the definition of continuing treatment.
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documentation supporting the adoption or foster placement of a child, or documentation
supporting the contingency operation, if available. Leave may be denied if employee does
not provide satisfactory certification. If employee intentionally misrepresents the reasons
for requesting family and medical leave, employee may be discharged at PGC’s discretion.
• Married couples: A husband and wife who are eligible for FMLA leave and are employed by
the same covered employer may be limited to a combined total of 122 weeks leave during
any 12-month period of leave is taken for placement of employee’s child or to care for child
after placement, for birth of employee’s child or care after birth or to care for employee’s
parent with a serious health condition.
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relating to FMLA. If an employee feels there was an unlawful act by PGC, employee may file a
complaint with the U.S. Department of Labor or may bring a private lawsuit against PGC. FMLA
does not affect any federal or state law prohibiting discrimination, or supersede any state or
local law which provides greater family or medical leave rights.
4.3 Holidays
PGC Employees will be given holidays off in accordance with Client’s policies. All holidays will be unpaid,
unless agreed to be paid by the Client. Employees are often granted time off for the holidays listed
below, but is dependent on Client’s policy:
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begins employment on January 15th, the first day of benefits will begin March 1st. For further questions
about qualifying events or eligibility contact WorkforceSolutions@pgcgroup.com.
Eligible employees may participate in the health insurance plan and are subject to all terms and
conditions of the agreement between PGC and the insurance carrier.
A change in employment classification that would result in loss of eligibility to participate in the health
insurance plan may qualify an employee for benefits continuation under the Consolidated Omnibus
Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA).
Details of the health insurance plan are described in the Summary Plan Description (SPD) provided to
each employee. An SPD and information on cost of coverage will be provided in advance of enrollment
to eligible employees. Contact a PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist for more information about
health insurance benefits.
Having your insurance premium(s) deducted pre-tax does not change any provisions of
coverage; it only affects the way you pay contribution of the premiums. It is important to note
that once insurance premiums are deducted on a pre-tax basis, you cannot change your
deduction until the start of the next plan year, unless you experience a qualified change in
status. PGC plan years currently run from August – August. Changes in family status must be
reported to the Benefits Administrator within thirty (30) days of the event in order to modify or
revoke this benefit election.
Under COBRA, the employee or beneficiary pays the full cost of coverage at PGC’s group rates plus an
administration fee. PGC provides each eligible employee with a written notice describing rights granted
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under COBRA when the employee becomes eligible for coverage under PGC’s health insurance plan. The
notice contains important information about the employee’s rights and obligations. Contact a PGC
Workforce Solutions Team Specialist for more information about COBRA.
Funds for these benefits are provided by PGC through its Workers’ Compensation claims administrator,
as required by law. Employees who sustain work-related injuries or illnesses should inform their PGC
Workforce Solutions Team Specialist immediately. No matter how minor an on-the-job injury may
appear, it is important that it be reported immediately. This will enable an eligible employee to qualify
for coverage, if needed, as quickly as possible. For further information on how to file a workers’
compensation claim with PGC claim administrator contact WorkforceSolutions@pgcgroup.com.
PGC provides benefits, as required by law, to every employee injured during the course of their
employment. However, if we determine that any employee has provided falsified information to PGC,
the physician, the claim administrator, or to their PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist for the
purpose of fraudulently obtaining workers’ compensation benefits, we will take the strongest possible
action to prosecute that employee to the fullest extent of the law and such employee will no longer be
eligible for employment with PGC.
It is the responsibility of the employee, should the project end or decide to voluntary quit, to notify PGC
Workforce Solutions Team Specialist within 48 hours, unless this policy is inconsistent with employee’s
state’s unemployment compensation laws. Failure to contact PGC at the end of project or within 48
hours may result in a voluntary quit and/or the loss of unemployment.
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4.10 Jury Duty
PGC encourages employees to fulfill their civic responsibilities by serving jury duty when required.
Employees may request unpaid jury duty leave for the length of absence, or will receive pay when
required by law. PGC will not dismiss an employee from a project purely because they are assigned jury
duty and will be absent, as long as they provide advance notice to their Workforce Solutions Team
Specialist regarding the duration of the absence. If desired, employees may use any available paid time
off (for example, vacation benefits). Employee is to be aware that PGC or Client may require additional
documentation relating to service of jury duty.
It is not possible to list all the forms of behavior that are considered unacceptable in the workplace. The
following are examples of infractions of rules of conduct that may result in disciplinary action, up to and
including termination of employment:
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Nothing is this policy is intended to change PGC’s at-will employment policy. Employment with PGC is at
the mutual consent of PGC and the employee, and either party may terminate that relationship at any
time, with or without cause, and with or without advance notice.
While on PGC and/or Client premises or while conducting any business-related activities of PGC, no
employee may use, possess, distribute, sell, or be under the influence of alcohol or illegal drugs. The
legal use of prescribed drugs is permitted on the job only if it does not impair an employee’s ability to
perform the essential functions of the job effectively and in a safe manner that does not endanger other
individuals in the workplace.
PGC may conduct investigations into the use of alcohol or drugs while employee performed services in
the event that there is an accident or injury effecting employee’s workers’ compensation claims, when
there is reasonable suspicion to believe employee has violated this policy or when circumstances or
workplace conditions justify such investigation.
Violations of this policy may lead to disciplinary action, up to and including immediate termination of
employment, and/or required participation in a substance abuse rehabilitation or treatment programs.
Such violations may also have legal consequences.
Employees with questions on this policy or issues related to drug or alcohol use in the workplace should
raise their concerns with their PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist.
Sexual harassment is defined as unwanted sexual advances, or visual, verbal, or physical conduct of a
sexual nature. This definition includes many forms of offensive behavior and includes gender-based
harassment of a person of the same sex as the harasser. The following is a partial list of sexual
harassment examples:
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• Verbal conduct that includes making or using derogatory comments, epithets, slurs, or
jokes
• Verbal sexual advances or propositions
• Verbal abuse of a sexual nature, graphic verbal commentaries about an individual’s
body, sexually degrading words used to describe an individual, or suggestive or obscene
letters, notes, or invitations
• Physical conduct that includes touching, assaulting, or impeding or blocking movements
Unwelcome sexual advances (either verbal or physical), requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or
physical conduct of a sexual nature constitute sexual harassment when: (1) submission to such conduct
is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment; (2) submission to or rejection
of the conduct is used as a basis for making employment decisions; or (3) the conduct has the purpose
or effect of interfering with work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work
environment.
If employee experiences or witnesses sexual or other unlawful harassment in the workplace by either a
PGC employee and/or Client employee, report to a PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist
immediately. Employee can raise concerns and make reports without fear of intimidation, reprisal or
retaliation. At the same time, employees have an obligation to cooperate with PGC in enforcing this
policy and investigating and remedying complaints.
All allegations of harassment will be quickly and discreetly investigated. To the extent possible,
employee confidentiality and that of any witnesses and the alleged harasser will be protected against
unnecessary disclosure. When the investigation is completed, employee will be informed of the
outcome of the investigation. Anyone engaging in sexual or other unlawful behavior will be subject to
disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
We recognize that there are times when absences and tardiness cannot be avoided. In such cases, you
are expected to notify your PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist and the Client as early as possible,
but no later than the start of your work day. When providing information on absences, please state the
nature of absence and expected duration. Unreported absences of two (2) consecutive work days will
generally be considered a voluntary resignation of your employment with PGC.
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or groomed inappropriately, you may be prevented from working until you return to work well groomed
and wearing proper attire.
No “presumption of guilt” is created by the mere existence of a relationship with outside PGC Client or
Client customers. However, if employees have any influence on transactions involving purchases,
contracts, or leases, it is imperative that they disclose to an officer of PGC as soon as possible the
existence of any actual or potential conflict of interest so that safeguards can be established to protect
all parties.
Personal gain may result not only in cases where an employee or relative has a significant ownership in a
firm with which PGC and/or PGC Client does business, but also when an employee or relative receives
any kickback, bribe, substantial gift, or special consideration as a result of any transaction or business
dealings involving PGC and/or PGC Client.
If an Employee feels concerned for their safety while on a client work-site bring it to the attention of a
PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist immediately. Reports and concerns about workplace safety
issues may be made anonymously if the employee wishes. All reports can be made without fear of
reprisal.
Each employee is expected to obey safety rules provided to them by PGC and/or the Client and to
exercise caution in all work activities. Employees who violate safety standards, who cause hazardous or
dangerous situations, or who fail to report or, where appropriate, remedy such situations may be
subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.
In the case of accidents that result in injury, regardless of how insignificant the injury may appear,
employees should immediately notify their PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist. Such reports are
necessary to comply with laws and initiate insurance and workers’ compensation benefits procedures.
It is important that the employee become familiar with each client’s safety procedures and equipment.
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5.8 Workplace Violence Prevention
PGC is committed to preventing workplace violence and to maintaining a safe work environment, free
from all forms of violence. Any acts or threats of physical violence occurring on PGC and/or Client
premises, or while conducting PGC and/or Client business is strictly prohibited. PGC has adopted the
following guidelines to deal with intimidation, harassment, or other threats of (or actual) violence that
may occur during business hours or on PGC and/or Client premises.
All employees of PGC and employees of Client should be treated with courtesy and respect at all times.
Employees are expected to refrain from fighting, “horseplay,” or other conduct that may be dangerous
to others. Firearms, weapons, and other dangerous or hazardous devices or substances are prohibited
from the premises of PGC or Client. Conduct that threatens, intimidates, or coerces another employee,
a customer, or a member of the public at any time, including off-duty periods, will not be tolerated. This
prohibition includes all acts of harassment, including harassment that is based on an individual’s sex,
race, age, or any characteristic protected by federal, state, or local law.
All threats of (or actual) violence, both direct and indirect, should be reported as soon as possible to
your PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist. This includes threats by PGC employees, Client
employees, customers, vendors, solicitors, or other members of the public. When reporting a threat of
violence, you should be as specific and detailed as possible. No employee will be subjected to
retaliation, intimidation, or disciplinary action as a result of reporting a threat in good faith under this
policy.
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The continued success of PGC is dependent upon our clients’ and outside parties’ trust and we are
dedicated to preserving that trust. Employees owe a duty to PGC, its clients, and any outside parties
whom have a relationship with PGC to act in a way that will merit the continued trust and confidence of
the public.
PGC will comply with all applicable laws and regulations and expects its directors, officers, and
employees to conduct business in accordance with the letter, spirit, and intent of all relevant laws and
to refrain from any illegal, dishonest, or unethical conduct.
In general, the use of good judgment, based on high ethical principles, will guide you with respect to
lines of acceptable conduct. If a situation arises where it is difficult to determine the proper course of
action, the matter should be discussed openly with your and, if necessary, with the your PGC Workforce
Solutions Team Specialist for advice and consultation.
Compliance with this policy of business ethics and conduct is the responsibility of every PGC employee.
Disregarding or failing to comply with this standard of business ethics and conduct could lead to
disciplinary action, up to and including possible termination of employment.
PGC will endeavor to accommodate the sincere religious beliefs of its employees to the extent such
accommodation does not pose an undue hardship on PGC’s operations. If you wish to request such an
accommodation, speak with a PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist.
Any employees with questions or concerns about any type of discrimination in the workplace are
encouraged to bring these issues to the attention of their PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist.
Employees can raise concerns and make reports without fear of intimidation, reprisal, or retaliation.
Anyone found to be engaging in any type of unlawful discrimination will be subject to disciplinary action,
up to and including termination of employment.
Title II of the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act (GINA) of 2008 protects applicants and
employees from discrimination based on genetic information in hiring, promotion, discharge, pay, fringe
benefits, job training, classification, referral, and other aspects of employment. GINA also restricts
employers’ acquisition of genetic information and strictly limits disclosure of genetic information.
Genetic information includes information about genetic tests of applicants, employees or their family
members; the manifestation of diseases or disorders in family members (family medical history); and
requests for or receipt of genetic services by applicants, employees or their family members.
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PGC is committed to complying fully with applicable disability laws and ensuring equal opportunity in
employment for qualified persons with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities
Act. PGC and Client will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known
disabilities unless doing so would result in an undue hardship, on PGC or the Client, to the extent
required by law. This policy governs all aspects of employment, including selection, job assignment,
compensation, discipline, termination, and access to benefits and training. All employment decisions
are based on the merits of the situation and the needs of the company and client, not the disability of
the individual.
Hiring procedures have been reviewed and provide persons with disabilities meaningful employment
opportunities. Pre-employment inquiries are made regarding only an applicant’s ability to perform the
duties of the position. If assistance is needed to perform job duties because of a physical or mental
condition, employee is to inform their PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist or PGC’s main office.
Employees are expected to cooperate with PGC and engage in an interactive process to determine what
reasonable accommodations might be available.
PGC is also committed to not unlawfully discriminating against any qualified employees or applicants
because they are related to or associated with a person with a disability.
This policy is neither exhaustive nor exclusive. PGC is committed to taking all other actions necessary to
ensure equal employment opportunity for persons with disabilities in accordance with the ADA and all
other applicable federal, state, and local laws.
6.4 Non-Disclosure
The protection of confidential business information and trade secrets is vital to the interests and the
success of PGC and PGC Client Companies. Such confidential information includes, but is not limited to,
the following examples:
• acquisitions
• compensation data
• computer processes
• computer programs and codes
• customer lists
• customer preferences
• financial information
• investments
• labor relations strategies
• marketing strategies
• new materials research
• partnerships
• pending projects and proposals
• proprietary production processes
• research and development strategies
• scientific data
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• scientific formulae
• scientific prototypes
• technological data
• technological prototypes
Further, employees are prohibited from any unauthorized use of PGC’s intellectual property, including
but not limited to audio and video recordings, print materials, and software.
6.5 Grievances
Employees are encouraged to bring concerns, problems, and grievances regarding Client, Client
employees, working conditions, or any further grievance to the attention of their PGC Workforce
Solutions Team Specialist. Employee is also obligated to report any wrongdoing of which he/she
becomes aware of to their PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist or other PGC authority.
Personnel files are the property of PGC and access to the information may be restricted in accordance
with federal and state law. Generally, only supervisors and management personnel of PGC who have a
legitimate reason to review information in a file are allowed to do so. Employees who wish to review
their own file should contact their PGC Workforce Solutions Team Specialist. With reasonable advance
notice, employees may review their own personnel files under supervision and discretion of an
individual appointed by PGC to maintain the files.
PGC may share certain personnel/human resource data concerning its employees with nonaffiliated
third parties, including but not limited to third party administrators, when they are acting on our behalf,
or acting jointly with PGC for the purpose of processing payroll, workers’ compensation claims,
unemployment benefits, or any other such matter related to employment. Such data may include
name, address, social security number, employee ID number, job description, and related information.
PGC may also share such data with our Clients in connection with providing services to them. In
addition, such data may be shared with other parties as permitted or required by law such as credit
bureaus, government entities, in responding to subpoenas and other legal processes, and those with
whom you have requested us to share information.
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7.2 Electronic Communications Policy
During the course of your project at PGC Clients, employee may have access to clients’ computers
and/or other electronic communications systems, including but not limited to voicemail, email, client
databases, internet, and intranet systems. Such systems are intended for business use related to client
business, and not personal use. No users of client systems from any location have any expectation of
privacy as between the PGC Employee and Client, and all communications made with or on client
systems or equipment are subject to client surveillance, use and disclosure, in client’s sole discretion.
When working at a client site, employees are required to follow the guidelines that are provided by
the client regarding their communication and computer systems.
PGC policies prohibiting harassment, in their entirety, apply to the use of PGC’s communication and
computer systems. No one may use any communication or computer system in a manner that may be
construed by others as harassing or offensive based on race, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age,
disability, religious beliefs or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law.
Unauthorized duplication of copyrighted computer software violates the law and is strictly prohibited.
No employee may access, or attempt to access, another employee’s computer system without
appropriate authorization.
Any PGC provided or Client provided portable communication devices (PCDs) including cell phones and
personal digital assistants, should be used primarily for business purposes. Employees have no
reasonable expectation of privacy in regard to such devices, and all use is subject to monitoring to the
maximum extent permitted by applicable law. Employee may not use their personal PCD for business
unless they agree to submit the device to PGC on or before their last day of work for resetting and
removal of PGC information. This is done to ensure all PGC information is removed from the device at
time of termination is it is crucial to ensure compliance with PGC confidentiality and proprietary
information policies and objectives.
7.4 Inspections
PGC reserves the right, as permitted by law and dictated by the circumstances at hand, to require
employees while on PGC property or on Client property, to agree to the inspection of their persons,
personal possessions and property, personal vehicles parked on PGC or client property, and work areas.
This includes, as permitted by law and dictated by the circumstances at hand, lockers, vehicles, desks,
cabinets, work stations, packages, handbags, briefcases, and other personal possessions or places of
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concealment, as well as personal mail sent to PGC or its clients. Employees are expected to cooperate in
the conduct of any search or inspection
Defense of Trade Secrets Act: An individual shall not be held criminally or civilly liable under any Federal
or State trade secret law for the disclosure of a trade secret that—(A) is made—(i) in confidence to a
Federal, State, or local government official, either directly or indirectly, or to an attorney; and (ii) solely
for the purpose of reporting or investigating a suspected violation of law; or (B) is made in a complaint
or other document filed in a lawsuit or other proceeding, if such filing is made under seal. Accordingly,
the parties to this Agreement have the right to disclose in confidence trade secrets to Federal, State, and
local government officials, or to an attorney, for the sole purpose of reporting or investigating a
suspected violation of law. The parties also have the right to disclose trade secrets in a document filed in
a lawsuit or other proceeding, but only if the filing is made under seal and protected from public
disclosure. Nothing in this Agreement is intended to conflict with 18 U.S.C. § 1833(b) or create liability
for disclosures of trade secrets that are expressly allowed by 18 U.S.C. § 1833(b).
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The PGC EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK describes expectations of our employees and outlines the
policies, programs, and benefits available to eligible PGC employees. Additionally, the Handbook
prepares employees for placement on projects with our Clients. Employees should familiarize
themselves with the contents of the Handbook as it will answer many questions about
employment with PGC.
I acknowledge that I have read and understand PGC’s employee handbook and stated policies
including any provided state specific appendices.
_____________________________________
Signature
Khoa Pham
_____________________________________
Name
_____________________________________
Date
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