What steps do I need to take to ensure my Ohio-based business is compliant with state and federal employment laws?

As a lawyer, I can advise you of the following steps to ensure your Ohio-based business is compliant with state and federal employment laws:

1. Review and comply with applicable federal employment laws: First, review and comply with federal employment laws such as the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA), Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA), and the Occupational Safety and Health Act (OSHA). These laws set standards for minimum wage, overtime, anti-discrimination and harassment policies, accommodation for disabilities, medical leave, workplace safety, and workers' compensation.
2. Understand and comply with state employment laws: Ohio has several state employment laws that you should understand and comply with, including the Ohio Civil Rights Act, the Ohio smoking laws, and the Ohio minimum wage law. These laws are specific to Ohio and may have additional requirements beyond the federal laws.
3. Develop workplace policies and procedures: Develop written policies and procedures that comply with the applicable state and federal laws. These policies should be distributed to all employees and explained in detail to avoid any confusion or misunderstandings.
4. Train employees and supervisors: Train employees and supervisors about your company's policies and procedures, as well as state and federal laws, to ensure everyone understands their rights and responsibilities in the workplace.
5. Maintain accurate employment records: Keep accurate employment records for each employee, including job descriptions, compensation, hours worked, and any workplace incidents or accidents. These records will be important in case of an employment lawsuit or audit.
6. Seek legal advice: Finally, seek legal advice from a licensed attorney to ensure your business is fully compliant with state and federal employment laws. An attorney can help you understand your legal obligations and assist you in drafting policies and procedures that comply with applicable laws.

It is important to note that there may be limitations or exceptions to the advice given above. For example, some businesses may be exempt from certain state and federal employment laws, depending on their size or industry. Additionally, state and federal employment laws are subject to change, so it is important to regularly review and update your policies and procedures to ensure compliance.

In summary, ensuring your Ohio-based business is compliant with state and federal employment laws requires a thorough understanding of the applicable laws, developing workplace policies and procedures, training employees and supervisors, maintaining accurate employment records, and seeking legal advice when necessary.