PST
COMPUTERS Inc.
Employee Handbook
THE SCOPE OF THE MANUAL
The Associate Manual details
employment policies and general work rules pertinent to employment with PST
COMPUTERS Inc. In addition, this booklet provides a general outline of the benefits
available to an eligible associate while employed with PST COMPUTERS Inc. PST
COMPUTERS Inc. reserves the right to alter, delete, or add to any of the
provisions of this manual at any time and to change or modify any of the
associate benefits which are described herein without notice to associates.
This manual supersedes all
previous spoken or written policies relating to items covered in this handbook.
The policies in this manual are not retroactive.
Neither this manual nor any other company document confers any
contractual right, express or implied, to remain in PST COMPUTERS Inc. employ.
Nor does it guarantee any fixed terms and conditions of employment. Employment
at PST COMPUTERS Inc. is not for any fixed time and may be terminated at‑will, with or without cause, and without prior
notice, at any time by the company and the associate may resign for any reason
at any time. No supervisor, manager, or other representative of PST COMPUTERS
Inc. (except for the President / CEO) has the authority to enter into any
agreement for employment for any specified period of time, or to make any
agreement contrary to the above.
EMPLOYMENT PRACTICES
This summary of PST COMPUTERS Inc. employment practices is provided to inform all associates of PST COMPUTERS Inc. dedication to fair and equitable employment, compliance with state and federal regulations regarding employment and the company’s policies concerning compensation issues. This section of the manual represents an overview of PST COMPUTERS Inc., employment practices, policies and procedures and is not a complete representation of all employment policies and procedures currently used by PST COMPUTERS Inc. Should an associate have questions regarding any of the practices, policies or procedures outlined in this handbook, he/she should discuss them with his / her manager.
Equal Employment Opportunity
PST COMPUTERS Inc. is an Equal Employment Opportunity Employer. We practice equal employment opportunity for employment and promotion regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, veteran status and other categories protected by applicable federal, state and local laws. PST COMPUTERS Inc. expects the relationships of people with PST COMPUTERS Inc. to be impartial and based on respect for the opinions and feelings of others.
Americans with Disabilities Act
It is PST COMPUTERS Inc. policy not to discriminate
against qualified individuals with disabilities and to provide reasonable accommodations
as required by law to otherwise qualified applicants or associates with
disabilities in all employment practices, including job application procedures,
hiring, advancement, job assignments, leaves of absence, transfers, layoffs,
demotions, discipline, discharge, compensation, fringe benefits and job
training. Employment opportunities will not be denied to an otherwise qualified
applicant or associate because of the need to make reasonable accommodation to
the physical or mental impairment(s) of such individual.
Although this policy is
largely described in terms of accommodations that may allow an applicant or
associate with a disability to perform the essential functions of the position
desired or held, the policy is also applicable to accommodations involving the
job application process and to accommodations that would enable an associate
with a disability to enjoy equal benefits and privileges of employment.
The procedures contained in
PST COMPUTERS Inc. Americans with Disabilities Act compliance policy are not
exclusive of other employment related inquiries that PST COMPUTERS Inc., in its
discretion, may make as permitted or required by local, state or federal law
and in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act.
Discrimination and Harassment (including Sexual Harassment)
Discrimination and Harassment Will Not Be Tolerated. We are committed to
providing our associates with an environment free of any form of
discrimination, including harassment regarding gender, race, ethnic origin,
religion, age, disability or sexual orientation. Therefore, it is expressly
prohibited for any PST COMPUTERS Inc. manager, supervisor, associate,
contractor, supplier representative, guest or visitor to engage in any
discriminatory conduct in the workplace. With respect to discrimination and /
or harassment, PST COMPUTERS Inc. policy expressly prohibits any conduct,
whether by managers, supervisors, associates or non‑associates,
which has the purpose or effect of interfering with an individuals
work performance or creating an intimidating, hostile or offensive work
environment. With regard to sexual harassment, this specifically includes:
1. Any conduct which threatens, insinuates, explicitly or implicitly, an applicants or associates submission to or rejection of sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, or the like will be used as a basis for any employment decision or will otherwise in any way adversely affect the employment or employment opportunities of any individual.
2. Abusive or degrading language and physical
conduct or contact of an offensive sexual nature, including unwanted sexual
advances, requests, suggestions, threats or demands for sexual favors, related
verbal abuse of a sexual nature, graphic comments about an individuals
body, sexually degrading comments or jokes, unnecessary touching, or the
display of sexually suggestive objects or materials.
PST COMPUTERS Inc. particularly emphasizes the need to be sensitive and considerate of the feelings of others. Statements and actions which may be intended as a joke or well intentioned bantering by one person could be taken seriously or misinterpreted by another and considered very offensive. Similarly, what may be intended as a compliment could be perceived as an unwanted advance by its recipient, and what may have been intended as a wholly innocent gesture could be deemed offensive and invasive by the recipient.
PST COMPUTERS Inc. takes pride in its people. We expect that consideration and respect for others will continue to make PST COMPUTERS Inc. a fine place for all of us to work.
Discrimination and Harassment Complaint and Reporting Procedures
As stressed here, PST
COMPUTERS Inc. does not tolerate any type of discrimination or harassment in the
workplace. Accordingly, every manager and supervisor must maintain a workplace
free of discrimination or harassment, and all associates should adhere to the
following procedures:
1. If an associate is
exposed to conduct which he/she finds offensive, PST COMPUTERS Inc. strongly
encourages the associate to promptly and clearly state his / her opinion. When
an associate fails to state his/her opinion immediately, he/she runs the risk
of allowing others to believe that he/she does not find the conduct offensive.
If an associate believes that the response he/she receives is not appropriate,
the associate is to report the problem as outlined in items 3 and 4 below.
2. If someone complains to an associate that a joke or other such statement or action on the associates part is offensive or invasive, the associate must take such a complaint seriously and stop the behavior immediately.
3. If an associate
experiences a problem or observes a problem or potential problem involving
discrimination or harassment, the associate is to contact his / her manager or
supervisor immediately.
4. If an associate does not
feel comfortable discussing the problem with his / her manager or supervisor,
or if the associate made a complaint which he/she believes was not
appropriately resolved, the associate should contact the President / CEO of PST
COMPUTERS Inc..
5. All complaints will be
handled with confidentiality and there will be no retaliation. An investigation
will be conducted and if the complaint is found to have merit, appropriate
corrective measures, including disciplinary action up to termination of
employment, will be taken.
.
Conflict of Interest
PST COMPUTERS Inc.
discourages employment of anyone who has financial interests or a position in a
company that competes with merchandise and services offered by PST COMPUTERS
Inc. All exceptions to this policy must be approved in advance by PST
management.
Disciplinary Action
At PST COMPUTERS Inc., we are committed to each associate reaching his/her fullest potential. Therefore, we offer numerous opportunities for training and individual development. These opportunities come with an expectation that each associate will embrace heightened responsibility for his/her performance and attain PST COMPUTERS Inc. high work performance standards. Work performance encompasses many factors, including but not limited to quality and quantity of work, attendance, punctuality, personal conduct, and general compliance with PST COMPUTERS Inc. policies and procedures.
If an associate does not
meet these standards, PST COMPUTERS Inc. may take corrective action up to and
including termination of employment with PST COMPUTERS Inc..
The intent of corrective action is to formally document problems, while
providing the associate with a reasonable amount of time within which to
improve performance. PST COMPUTERS Inc. uses a Progressive Discipline Program
designed to encourage development by providing associates with guidance in
areas that need improvement. However, PST COMPUTERS Inc. may immediately
terminate an associates employment for violation of
PST COMPUTERS Inc. Standards of Conduct, listed in this manual.
The progressive discipline
program includes the use of any and all of the following levels of disciplinary
action for a given disciplinary incident or ongoing situation: coaching and
counseling, verbal warning(s), written warning(s), final warning, and
termination. Associates who fail to meet PST COMPUTERS Inc. expectations and
standards or exhibit inappropriate behavior will be provided with feedback.
Generally, feedback concerning inappropriate behavior or substandard
performance is documented through the use of a Performance Improvement Notice form within the progressive discipline system.
Examples of behavior or performance
which may result in immediate termination
of employment are discussed in greater detail in the Standards of Conduct
section of this manual.
PST COMPUTERS Inc. use of a
progressive discipline program for corrective action is not intended to change
any PST COMPUTERS Inc. associates status of "associate‑at‑will,"
meaning that no one has the contractual right, express or implied, to remain in
PST COMPUTERS Inc. employ. PST COMPUTERS Inc. may terminate an associates employment, or an associate may terminate his/her
employment with or without cause and with or without notice, at any time.
Standards of Conduct
Suspension and/or dismissal may be immediate in instances of activities which are illegal, improper, or dangerous to people and/or property. The following are examples of activities which may result in immediate dismissal:
Theft
Improper handling of funds
or merchandise
Negligent or willful
destruction of property
Rude, threatening or violent
behavior of a verbal or physical nature
Lying or falsifying records
Possession of a weapon on
company property
Possession, consumption,
sale of, or coming to work under the influence of illegal drugs
Alcohol use while at work or
reporting to work under the influence of alcohol
Recording of work time of
another associate or allowing any other associate to record your work time, or
allowing falsification of any time card, either your
own or another persons
Removal or borrowing of PST
COMPUTERS Inc. property without prior authorization
Removal or borrowing of PST
COMPUTERS Inc. intellectual property without prior authorization
Electronically transmitting any of PST COMPUTERS
Inc. intellectual property without prior authorization whether by Email, FTP,
HTTP of any other means
Unauthorized use of PST
COMPUTERS Inc. equipment, time, materials or facilities
Participation in horseplay
or practical jokes on PST COMPUTERS Inc. time or property
Participation in criminal
conduct, whether or not related to job performance
Creation of, or participation
in, a disruption of any kind during working hours or on PST COMPUTERS Inc.
property
Insubordination including, but not limited to, failure or refusal to obey the orders or instructions of a supervisor or member of management, or the use of abusive or threatening language toward a supervisor or member of management
The use of profane or
abusive language at any time on PST COMPUTERS Inc. property
Failure to notify a
supervisor when unable to report for work
Fighting or arguing
Disclosure of confidential
information
Discourtesy or repeated
discourteous conduct
Conducting personal business
during work hours
Committing immoral or
indecent acts on company premises
Sexual harassment
Failure to obtain permission
to leave work for any reason during normal working hours
Failure to observe working
schedules, including rest and lunch periods
Failure to provide a
physicians certificate when requested or required to do so
Sleeping on the job
The continuing of a
fraudulent act or a breach of trust under any circumstances
This listing is not
exhaustive. In addition, any associate may be terminated by PST COMPUTERS Inc.
for unsatisfactory work or behavior.
This statement of prohibited
conduct does not alter PST COMPUTERS Inc. policy of employment at will. Either
you or PST COMPUTERS Inc. may terminate the employment relationship at any
time, for any reason, with or without cause or notice.
Associate Background Checks
PST COMPUTERS Inc. has a vital interest in maintaining safe, secure and efficient working conditions for its associates. For this reason, PST COMPUTERS Inc. may conduct a credit check or criminal background check on any or all of its associates. Any such reference check will be conducted in full compliance with applicable federal, state and local laws and ordinances.
Garnishments
PST COMPUTERS Inc. will abide by all court orders or other legal directions relating to garnishment of an associates wages in accordance with state statutes and/or regulations that may apply.
Inclement Weather Closings
It is PST COMPUTERS Inc.
practice to be open to service our customers during stated business hours. On
occasion, due to inclement weather or other circumstances, PST COMPUTERS Inc.
locations may need to close during business hours. The President / CEO of the
company is responsible for the decision to open or
close the store in conditions of inclement weather.
Loss Prevention
PST COMPUTERS Inc. recognizes the important role associates play in protecting company assets. All associates have the responsibility to protect assets which include other associates, cash, inventory and other company property including proprietary information. This includes the responsibility to notify a supervisor when an associate has reason to suspect that anyone is threatening the safety or integrity of these assets. PST COMPUTERS Inc. will dismiss, prosecute, and seek restitution and civil penalties from associates who commit theft, embezzlement or fraud involving company assets.
Internal Investigations
From time to time, PST
COMPUTERS Inc. may be required to conduct internal investigations pertaining to
security, auditing or work‑related matters.
Associates are expected to cooperate fully with, and assist in, these
investigations if requested to do so. Failure to cooperate may result in
disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
All associate work areas
(i.e. offices, cubicles, desks, file cabinets, computers, lockers, etc.) are
the property of PST COMPUTERS Inc.. Whenever necessary
at managements discretion,
associate work areas and personal items within the associates work area (i.e.
briefcases, handbags, etc.) may be subject to a search. Management will
generally try to obtain an associates consent before conducting a search of
work areas or personal belongings, but may not always be able to do so.
Associates are required to cooperate.
Layoffs / Reductions in Force
While PST COMPUTERS Inc. hopes
to continue growing and providing additional employment opportunities, changes
in business conditions, consumer demand, competition and other factors can
create a need to restructure or reduce the number of people employed.
If it becomes necessary to
restructure our operation or reduce the number of associates, PST COMPUTERS
Inc. will attempt to provide advance notice, if possible, so as to minimize the
impact on those affected. Associates subject to layoff will be informed of the
nature of the layoff and the foreseeable duration of the layoff, whether short‑term or indefinite, if possible.
In determining which
associate(s) will be subject to layoff, PST COMPUTERS Inc. will take into
account, among other things; operational requirements, the skill, productivity,
ability and past performance, and length of service of those involved.
Employment at PST COMPUTERS
Inc. is on an at‑will basis, which means the
associate or the company may terminate the employment relationship at any time,
for any reason, with or without cause. All terminations by the company, either
with or wothout cause, will be given in writing to the
employee. All terminations by the associate are expected in writing as well,
but not required.
Paychecks
Paychecks are issued bi‑weekly, every other Thursday. All necessary payroll deductions are made before an associate receives his/her check. PST COMPUTERS Inc. does not offer pay advances.
Pay Scales
Many jobs have minimum and maximum pay rates which reflect the degree of responsibility associated with a given job category. These pay scales are reviewed at the conclusion of each fiscal year by the President and CEO of PST COMPUTERS Inc.. An associates rate of pay within a pay scale is primarily determined by his/her job performance. Prior experience and/or excellent performance in another job category may allow an associate to start at higher than the minimum pay.
Performance Appraisals and Pay Adjustments
Performance appraisals, or evaluations, are conducted formally at least once each year. These are private meetings between associates and supervisors or managers to discuss the associates job performance. As a basis for discussion, associates may be given a copy of a written evaluation. A manager may address an associates performance against stated goals specific to the associates position and against more generic company wide standards for performance and behavior. Each associate is encouraged to use this time to discuss any topics which he/she would like to discuss, as well. PST COMPUTERS Inc. believes in merit increases. Therefore, pay adjustments are tied to PST COMPUTERS Inc. company performance as well as to the associates job performance.
Personnel Records
The official personnel records
for all associates are maintained at PST COMPUTERS Inc..
References
Under no circumstances should any PST COMPUTERS Inc. associate release any information about any current or former PST COMPUTERS Inc. associate over the telephone. All persons making telephone inquiries regarding any current or former associate of PST COMPUTERS Inc. must be instructed to make the request in writing to the Office Manager. In response to a written outside request for information regarding a current or former PST COMPUTERS Inc. associate, the Office manager will furnish or verify only the following information: an associates name, dates of employment and positions held. No other data or information regarding any current or former PST COMPUTERS Inc. associate, or his/her employment with PST COMPUTERS Inc. will be released, unless the associate specifically authorizes PST COMPUTERS Inc. to release such information in writing, or PST COMPUTERS Inc. is required by law to furnish any information.
Work Schedules
The manager will schedule
the days and hours each associate is to work each week, based on the business
needs of PST. Because business needs change, an associates schedule may
fluctuate. It is important that associates have flexible scheduling
availability.
Managers also schedule meal
breaks. If an associate works six (6) hours or more in a day, an unpaid meal
break (minimum of 30 minutes) will be scheduled approximately half way through
his/her work schedule. PST COMPUTERS Inc. will comply with any state or local
laws and/or regulations which govern associate meal breaks and rest breaks.
Voluntary Terminations
If you decide to leave your employment with PST COMPUTERS Inc. we request that you provide us with as much advance notice as is practical, and preferably, at least two weeks written notice. This will give PST COMPUTERS Inc. a better opportunity to make necessary adjustments in its staffing and operations.
At the time of separation,
an associate should make an appointment with his/her manager to review necessary
items, such as return of PST COMPUTERS Inc. property and other matters. PST
COMPUTERS Inc. is also most interested in receiving your comments or
observations regarding your employment experience and in hearing any further
suggestions you may have regarding potential improvements in our policies and
operations.
GENERAL WORK RULES
The following are guidelines
for all associates to assist with the creation and maintenance of a healthy, productive
and comfortable working environment. This manual is a general overview of
policies and procedures and is not a complete representation of all PST
COMPUTERS Inc. policies and procedures. Should an associate have questions
regarding any of the policies outlined in the Associate Handbook, local
facility policies, or working procedures, the associate should discuss them
with his/her manager or supervisor.
This outline of PST COMPUTERS Inc. General Work Rules does not constitute an offer of employment for any definite time period, as employment at PST COMPUTERS Inc. is at‑will and can be terminated by the associate or PST COMPUTERS Inc. at any time, with or without cause.
Attendance
Each associate is expected
to adhere strictly to his/her schedule. If personal circumstances arise that
cause an associate to be late or to miss a day of work, it is the associates
responsibility to speak to his/her manager, or the designated contact in the
managers absence, as soon as possible before the start of the work day to
inform the manager of the associates circumstances. A message left on the answering machine is not an acceptable means of
informing management of an absence. An associate must also get prior
approval from his/her manager to leave work early. Excessive tardiness or
absenteeism may result in dismissal.
If the associates
absence is caused by illness, the associate may be asked to submit a doctors note stating the cause of illness and the probable
date of the associates return. If an associate misses three consecutive
workdays without notifying his/her manager, the associates
absence will be considered a voluntary resignation.
PST COMPUTERS Inc. Information and Property
The protection of company business information, property and all other company assets is vital to PST COMPUTERS Inc. interests and success. No PST COMPUTERS Inc. related information, intellectual property or physical property may be removed from the company’s premises (except in the normal course of pursuing business on behalf of PST COMPUTERS Inc.). PST COMPUTERS Inc. related information, intellectual property and physical property includes but is not limited to documents, databases, files, records, computer files, equipment, office supplies or similar materials. Violation of this policy is a serious offense and will result in appropriate action up to and including immediate termination.
In addition, when an
associate leaves PST COMPUTERS Inc. employ, the associate must return to the
company all PST COMPUTERS Inc. related information, and property that the
associate has in his/her possession, including but not limited to documents,
files, records, manuals, information stored on a personal computer, or on a
computer disc, supplies, and equipment or office supplies.
Confidentiality
All company business, including information regarding customers, associates, and sales, is considered confidential. Company information should not be revealed to anyone, anywhere, including competitors, news media, vendors or friends.
Business Conduct
PST COMPUTERS Inc. values its reputation for integrity and adherence to the highest ethical standards by its associates. Nevertheless, conflict of interest can occur in varying degrees and it is not always easy to draw the line between conduct which is acceptable and conduct which is not. Any appearance of a conflict of interest or questionable integrity must be avoided. The following standards should be followed to help associates avoid potential issues or situations which may be a conflict of interest or of questionable integrity. Should an associate have information concerning a violation of business conduct by PST COMPUTERS Inc. associate or supplier, he/she should contact his/her manager.
Gifts and Samples
Offering or accepting any commission, bonus, fee, tip, compensation, trip, loan, or gift is in violation of company policy. Software or other material sold in our stores can be accepted, provided they are samples or are promotional in nature. If an associate is in the position of being offered an item which the associate is not certain should be accepted, the associate should either refuse or return the item, with thanks for the offer. An associate should discuss each situation with his/her manager.
Legal Compliance
Compliance with federal, state and local laws and regulations applicable to PST COMPUTERS Inc. as a business or an employer is essential. If any associate is in doubt regarding compliance with or interpretation of any law or regulation, he/she should contact his/her manager, or the President / CEO of PST for the area concerned.
Supplier Relations
PST COMPUTERS Inc. is very proud of the relationships, which have been established with suppliers as a result of years of fair and courteous dealings. PST COMPUTERS Inc. policy is to deal fairly and objectively ("arms length" relationship) with suppliers of merchandise and services. PST COMPUTERS Inc. choice of suppliers must be based on price, quality, and quantity of merchandise needed. In addition, factors such as availability of merchandise, product recognition and marketing support may be considered.
Company Information
The accurate reporting of information within and concerning the company is essential to PST COMPUTERS Inc. success. Recording or reporting fake information or falsely completing records or aiding others in doing so is a violation of company policy. In addition, it is prohibited to disclose, profit from or use inside information, confidential information or trade secrets concerning, belonging to or developed by the company, and PST COMPUTERS Inc. will pursue any and all remedies available under the law for such conduct.
Change in Associate Information
Maintaining accurate and complete associate information in an associates personnel records is essential to proper compensation of associates and associate benefits. Each associate is responsible for making sure all administration of paperwork regarding a change in his/her personal information is completed accurately and on a timely basis. An associate must update the PST Customer Database and/or any other necessary forms ensure the accuracy of an associates personnel records.
Computer Software and Hardware Guidelines
PST COMPUTERS Inc. owns and
licenses the use of Computer software from a variety of software publishers.
PST COMPUTERS Inc. does not own this software or its related documentation.
Duplication of software except for backup or archival purposes is prohibited.
No associate may duplicate software owned or used by PST COMPUTERS Inc.. According to the US Copyright Act, persons involved in
the illegal reproduction of software can be subject to civil damages of as much
as $50,000 and criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
You may not install software
brought from home on any company owned Computer. It is the associate’s
responsibility to virus checks all incoming files, diskettes, CDs, DVDs and
attachments. PST COMPUTERS Inc. will permit purchase, installation and use of
company owned or licensed software for business purposes at home.
E-mail and Internet Policy
Electronic mail, its content and attachments are
the property of PST COMPUTERS Inc. and are subject to inspection at any time by
PST COMPUTERS Inc. management. PST COMPUTERS Inc. will track all World Wide Web
browsing and emails in and out viewed during any session using our in-house
data lines and computers.
It is not
acceptable to:
Send e‑mail of an unprofessional nature.
Send e‑mail or other communications, file or programs containing offensive or harassing statements, including comments based on race, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion or political affiliation.
Send or request to receive sexually oriented messages or images.
Release ANY company information or company
information of a proprietary nature.
Use PST COMPUTERS Inc. internet access for any
purposes other than business related.
Allow others to use an associates accounts for access to Internet e‑mail
and the World Wide Web.
Purposefully saturate the
available bandwidth on dedicated lines without prior authorization.
Attempt to gain unauthorization access to any PST COMPUTERS Inc. computer systems.
Any of these actions may result in appropriate disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
Solicitation and Distribution of Printed Material and Electronic Mail
Approaching fellow associates in the workplace regarding activities, organizations or causes, regardless of how worthwhile, important or benevolent, can create unnecessary fear and pressures for fellow associates, and could be perceived as harassment or discrimination. Such conduct is inappropriate. PST COMPUTERS Inc. has established rules applicable to all associates which govern solicitation or distribution of written material during working time and entry onto the premises and work area. All associates are expected to comply strictly with these rules.
1. No associate shall solicit or promote support for any cause or organization during his/her working time, or during the working time of the associate or associates at whom such activity is directed.
2. No associate shall distribute or circulate any written or printed material in work areas at any time, or during his/her working time or during the working time of the associate or associates at whom such activity is directed.
3. Under no circumstances
will non‑associates be permitted to solicit or
to distribute written material for any purpose on PST COMPUTERS Inc. property
without the express prior consent of PST COMPUTERS Inc. Management.
As noted in this policy, "working time"
includes all time for which an associate is paid and/or is scheduled to be
performing services for PST COMPUTERS Inc.. It does
not include break periods, meal periods, or periods in which an associate is
not, and is not scheduled to be, performing services or work for PST COMPUTERS Inc..
Customer Service
The reputation of PST COMPUTERS Inc. is built on customer service. Our staff must be able to identify a customers needs, whether that customer is looking for computer solutions, or a PST COMPUTERS Inc. associate is looking for an answer to a payroll processing question. Should an associate need help in servicing an internal or external customer he/she should look to his/her manager for guidance. Each associate must keep in mind that he/she is representing PST COMPUTERS Inc. as well as him/herself any time they deal with clients. Customers must always be treated with respect in a fair and equal manner regardless of race, religion, color, national origin, age, sex, sexual orientation, marital status, disability and other categories protected by applicable federal, state and local laws.
Dating in the Workplace
While it is PST COMPUTERS
Inc. policy to avoid unnecessary intrusions into the private lives of its associates,
some matters may have significant job‑related
consequences. PST COMPUTERS Inc. intends to maintain a work environment free
from certain interpersonal relationships which can adversely impact morale,
productivity, or which may result in or give the perception of harassment,
discrimination or favoritism. Accordingly, in addition to our sexual harassment
policy, and in order to avoid any appearances of unfairness or favoritism, PST
COMPUTERS Inc. adopts the following guidelines:
1. Managers and supervisors
may not date or enter into a similar social relationship with any associate who
reports directly to them, or for whom they have direct responsibility or
authority.
2. PST COMPUTERS Inc. may prohibit
the hiring, transfer or promotion of any individual involved in a personal
relationship where such personnel action would create a direct
supervisor/subordinate relationship.
3. If PST COMPUTERS Inc.
determines that a supervisor and a subordinate are involved in a relationship
in violation of this policy, it may elect to transfer
one of the associates to another store or district. Where possible, the company
will permit the individuals the opportunity to determine or recommend which
associate will be transferred. If PST COMPUTERS Inc. cannot reasonably transfer
one of the associates, and the associates cannot decide who will leave
voluntarily, the associate will be subject to termination of employment.
4. Any violation of this
policy, including discrimination, harassment, favoritism, or other unfair
treatment, may lead to disciplinary action, including the possible termination
of either associate.
5. Any associate, including
any subordinate associate involved in a relationship with a manager or supervisor
who does not directly supervise his/her work, who feels that he/she may have
been the victim of sexual harassment or favoritism should immediately report
the incident to the President / CEO of PST COMPUTERS Inc..
Handling Cash
Cash and paperwork related to company funds must be handled in a professional manner. The Accounting department has set standards and procedures for handling cash and paperwork related to company funds that must be followed.
Safety
Every associate plays a big part in preventing accidents in his/her work location. If an associate spots a potential hazard, he/she should correct it right away or bring it to the attention of his/her manager so that the manager can have it corrected. Associates should take special care with lifting heavy objects. Any injury to an associate or to one of our customers must be reported a manager immediately.
Weapons
No associate or other company representative is allowed to carry or conceal any weapons on company premises or while conducting company business.
Security Standards
Associates are expected to follow the security policies outlined by their manager.
Smoking
PST COMPUTERS Inc. has adopted a smoke free workplace policy. Smoking is not permitted on the premises, including sales floor, restrooms, kitchen, in front of the primary visitor/customer entrances for the store, etc.
Management Philosophy Statement
PST COMPUTERS Inc. is
committed to maintaining an associate relations climate which promotes maximum
personal development and achievement. We are dedicated to treating our
associates fairly and providing good working conditions, competitive wages and
benefits, and above all, the respect that each associate deserves. We also
believe in open and direct communication that permits the resolution of
associate problems in an atmosphere of mutual trust, responsive to individual
circumstances. The company shall continue its efforts to enhance these
objectives.
We do not believe that our
associates would benefit from outside intervention into this relationship, but
firmly believe that the best interests of our associates can be served without third‑party interference, particularly a union. We
greatly value our ability to work with associates individually, without their
being subjected to burdensome union costs, complicated rules, and costly work
stoppages.
We will vigorously strive to
preserve an environment which nurtures the fulfillment of these goals.
Personal Belongings
PST COMPUTERS Inc. cannot accept responsibility for loss of personal belongings an associate brings to work. It is the responsibility of each associate to properly secure personal belongings.
Dress and Personal Appearance
Associates are expected to maintain an appropriate that is businesslike, neat and clean, as determined by the requirements of your work assignment. PST associates customarily wear ties when consulting with clients on-site.
Apparel ‑ generally, you should wear appropriate and clean attire. A
complete list of inappropriate attire would be impossible to write; however,
the following are some examples of inappropriate dress:
• Faded and/or tattered jeans, shirts without collars, or shirts
displaying
Advertising or writing that is considered distracting or
offensive, such as,
Slogans or pictures relating to competitors,
political issues or confrontational viewpoints.
Overalls, sweatshirts/pants, jogging suits
shorts or tank tops.
• Any clothing with spaghetti straps, any clothing that reveals bare
backs,
midriffs or shoulders, or any revealing
or provocative clothing.
• Zoris, thongs or tatami sandals.
Jewelry ‑ that is immoderate, distracting, offensive or unsafe is
inappropriate.
Hair ‑
should be clean and neatly arranged. This also pertains to sideburns, mustaches
and beards. Shaggy, unkempt hair is not permissible.
Personal Hygiene ‑ good personal hygiene habits must be maintained.
Time Cards
Associates are responsible for properly recording all their time worked and to review their time worked for accuracy.
Electronic time cards are
submitted every Thursday before noon. Weekly hours are reported from Friday to
Thursday. Time cards are the only record of the dates and times worked. Failure
to submit a time card could forfeit those hours unless verifiable by other means.
Workweek
All PST COMPUTERS Inc. non exempt employees agree to
PST COMPUTERS Inc. Comp-Week labor agreement as a condition of their
employment. PST COMPUTERS Inc. workweek complies with the
Fair Labor Standards Act of 40 hours of work in any 7 day workweek. Any week
that an employee exceeds 40 hours of work, he or she will be compensated with
an equal number of hours of paid time off. Paid time off shall be taken the
following workweek or at any time mutually agreed upon by both the employee and
PST COMPUTERS Inc..
Workplace Violence
PST COMPUTERS Inc. recognizes that violence in the workplace is a growing nationwide problem, necessitating a firm, considered response by employers. The costs of workplace violence are great, both in human and financial terms. Therefore, PST COMPUTERS Inc. has adopted this policy regarding workplace violence.
The safety and security of
PST COMPUTERS Inc. associates is of vital importance. Acts or threats of
physical violence, including intimidation, harassment and/or coercion, which
involve or affect PST COMPUTERS Inc. or which occur on PST COMPUTERS Inc.
property will not be tolerated.
This prohibition against
threats and acts of violence applies to all persons involved in the operations
of PST COMPUTERS Inc., including but not limited to PST COMPUTERS Inc.
personnel, contractors and vendors, and anyone else on PST COMPUTERS Inc.
property. Violations of this policy by any individual will lead to disciplinary
action and/or legal action, as appropriate.
Bulletin Boards
PST has a bulletin board which is used to communicate important company information such as company business announcements, policies, procedures, official governmental laws and regulations, and other information that is important to the success of our business. You are responsible for regularly reading the information posted on the bulletin board. No item or information may be posted on these bulletin boards unless it pertains to official company business or company sponsored activities, and it has been reviewed and approved by a Manager.
Substance Abuse
PST COMPUTERS Inc. is committed to maintaining a workplace free from the influence of alcohol and drugs, and to protecting the safety, health and well‑being of our associates and all those who use our goods and services, or come into contact with our property.
For this reason, PST COMPUTERS Inc. strictly
prohibits the illicit use, detectable presence of, sale, attempted sale, conveyance,
distribution, manufacture, purchase, attempted purchase, possession or transfer
or illegal drugs, intoxicants, or controlled substances, in any amount or any
manner. This prohibition similarly restricts the use of prescription
medications for which the associate does not have a valid prescription. In
addition, PST COMPUTERS Inc. strictly prohibits the use of alcohol on the job,
or any substance that impairs to any extent performance on the job. Any
violation of this policy shall result in adverse employment action up to and
including dismissal and referral for criminal prosecution.
Telephone Calls and/or Visits
Telephones are for business
use only. Please keep all personal phone conversations brief and infrequent. Personal
long distance calls should not be made except in an emergency. If an associate
must make a personal long distance phone call, the associate must use a calling
card to bill the call to his/her own phone, or advise his/her supervisor so
that he/she can reimburse PST COMPUTERS Inc. when the phone bill is received.
Associates should discourage
visits from relatives and friends during working hours.
Holidays and Personal Days
Regular, full‑time associates are eligible for seven (7) paid holidays in each calendar year, following completion of one (1) year of employment. To receive holiday pay, you must work the regularly scheduled workday before and after the holiday. The holidays are as follows: New Years Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and the following Friday, and Christmas Day.
If your employment is
separated from the company for any reason and you have not taken your holidays,
you are not entitled to schedule them, use them or receive pay for them unless
required by state law.
Paid Absences for Sick Leave
Regular, full‑time
associates that have completed one (1) full year or more of continuous service
with the company are eligible for sick leave on the following schedule:
After one (1) year of
continuous service: 24 hours. After two (2) years or more of continuous
service: 48 hours each anniversary year.
Sick leave may accumulate
from year to year up to a maximum of 160 hours. Accumulated sick leave will not
be paid out upon termination or if demoted from full‑time to part‑time.
Sick leave may be used for
an associates personal illness, injury or other
physical incapacitation of the associate all of which may require documentation
from a qualified physician. Associates may use sick leave in increments of four
(4) hours or more.
We strongly encourage
associates to accumulate sick leave so it is available to help in the event of
a long illness.
You must notify a member of
management as soon as possible if you are not going to be able to report for work,
so that arrangements may be made for your absence. Leaving a message on the
answering machine does not constitute notifying management.
Jury Duty Leave
So that you may serve on a jury without loss of earnings, the company will pay your normal earnings for three days of jury service. During this period your jury duty pay must be paid to PST COMPUTERS Inc.. After three days you will be paid your jury duty earnings from the court. Please contact your supervisor promptly and provide a copy of notification to appear and proof of jury attendance when your duty is complete.
Maternity Leave
Time off for maternity leave follows the Family Medical Leave Act or state statutes where applicable. Maternity leave is an unpaid leave. Sick, vacation and personal days can be applied to time off. Associates who elected Short Term Disability Insurance may file a claim to collect benefits by contacting the Benefits department. Associates covered by a state disability plan can apply for the benefits by contacting the appropriate state agency.
Military/National Guard Leave
Regular full‑time, part‑time and temporary associates will be granted a
leave of absence without pay to participate in regularly scheduled military
service training activities of any of the reserve branches of the United States
military services or National Guard. Regularly scheduled military duty will not
affect vacation or personal time. An associate should notify his/her manager in
writing of the need for military leave as soon as he/she receives his/her
training schedule.
Associates who are called,
or enlist, for active duty will be eligible for reinstatement of employment
with PST COMPUTERS Inc. after active duty in accordance with the provisions of
the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA).
If an associate is called to active duty other than for an annual two week
training or drilling, or is enlisting, he/she should notify his/her manager via
written request for military leave as soon as he/she has been advised of
his/her military status.
Associates wishing
reinstatement after a military leave other than for two weeks of annual
training or drilling must have been discharged from the duty honorably and
report back to work at PST COMPUTERS Inc. within ninety (90) days of discharge
or change in inactive or reserve status. The maximum cumulative length of
absence due to military leave shall be five (5) years in accordance with
USERRA. Associates should contact their supervisor or the Human Resources
department for further information concerning military leaves and possible re‑employment
after military leave.
Time Off to Vote
Voting polls are normally open from
Vacation Policy
Vacation pay is based on your employment anniversary date unless otherwise required by state law. Eligible full‑time associates will receive the following vacation benefits:
After one year of full‑time
continuous service ... 40 hours
After five years of full‑time continuous service ... 80 hours
After ten years of full‑time
continuous service ... 120 hours
After twenty years of full‑time
continuous service ... 160 hours
Associates promoted from part‑time
to full‑time status will receive a prorated vacation from the date of
promotion to their anniversary date.
Vacation time does not
accumulate beyond the amounts shown above. Vacation time that is not used
within 12 months after an associate becomes eligible for it may not be carried
over to the next year unless otherwise required by law. Associates must
schedule their vacations in advance and obtain management approval. Every
effort will be made to grant your request, but the needs and demands of our
business will ultimately determine the availability and scheduling of
vacations. Vacation is an earned benefit and all earned but unused vacation is
paid upon separation unless otherwise required by law. Vacation pay is computed
at the rate being earned at the time vacation is taken or upon separation.
Workers Compensation Coverage
The company carries insurance to cover the cost of work incurred injury or illness if you qualify and your claim has been accepted. Qualified associates may be eligible to receive benefits to help pay for medical treatment and part of the income lost while recovering. Specific benefits are prescribed by law depending on the circumstances of each case. To be assured of maximum coverage, work related accidents must be reported immediately to your supervisor or the President / CEO of PST. Management will file a timely claim. PST COMPUTERS Inc. policy is to comply with all state workers compensation laws and regulations. PST COMPUTERS Inc. will actively pursue returning associates to the workplace with limitations or restriction as the result of a workers compensation injury or illness as allowed by state workers compensation regulations and in accordance with the provisions of the Americans With Disabilities Act and the Family Medical Leave Act. PST COMPUTERS Inc. reserves the right to manage and/or monitor the associates treatment relative to a worker’s compensation injury or illness where allowed by state laws and regulations.
Associates will not accrue employment benefits such as vacation time and personal days during leave necessitated by a work related injury. Employment benefits accrued by the associate up to the day on which the leave of absence begins will not be lost and may be used in accordance with PST COMPUTERS Inc. policy upon returning from leave. However, if the leave is thirty (30) days or longer, any scheduled wage increase for the associate tied to length of service may be delayed by a period of time equivalent to the length of time the associate was on leave during the period. Furthermore, if the leave is thirty (30) days or longer, the percentage of merit increase for which the associate would be eligible will be prorated based on the time actually worked during the period.
Revised 8/24/2008