Dianne Foster

I consulted with supervisors and employees on a variety of workplace issues for more years than I admit. Several companies later, I learned that every company has its own unique set of challenges in the workplace and issues, but there are many issues that are common regardless of the organization.

Despite this similarity, there is a subject which always favors an interesting debate: employees who bring their children or pets to work, and the company's position on this subject.

Managers generally take one of two positions when it comes to children and pets in the workplace. Some managers believe that it is "not a big deal" as long as the job is done. Then there is another group of managers who believe it is inappropriate at least and a possible liability of the organization. What are some advantages and disadvantages for companies that allow employees to bring animals or children in the workplace?

Advantages

Promotes a flexible, non-traditional work environment and support

Employees want flexibility in the workplace. Flexibility means different things to different people, but for some employees, flexibility in the workplace means allowing them to put their child or a beloved pet in the office. There are managers who will see this as an employee to get the job done, whatever the circumstances. Some believe that the employee will be more productive if they do not care about a pet is home alone, or if a member of their staff do not stay out of the office to care for a child.

Such flexibility is often important for small businesses that place a high value on not only productivity but also on culture in the workplace. It is important for many companies that their employees' perceptions of the workplace is one that supports the needs of its staff. And that includes allowing

Disadvantages:

Reaction and perception of other officials

Not all people feel comfortable with animals. There may be people who have a fear of animals or who are allergic to certain pets.

Some employees may find that co-workers with children receive preferential treatment while other employees may believe that others caring for children or pets in the workplace are not as hard . How can they be if a child or a pet distracts them from their work? These employees may believe that they work twice as hard to cover the work that their colleague is not because they have a child or pet in the office.

Liability Issues

If a child or an animal is injured on the property of the company, the company could be liable, despite who is at fault. It may also be cited, state, or federal regulations that prohibit "non-workers" in the premises of certain work situations due to safety or licensing issues.

In the end - the best policy is to analyze in advance what position your company allow employees to bring children or pets to work. There will probably be more advantages and disadvantages that you should be aware of the circumstances specific to your business.

Once you've done your analysis, write a policy that addresses the company's position on placing children and pets to work, if the decision is to allow it or not. Make sure your employees are aware of company policy.

If the position of your organization is to allow children and pets in the workplace, check with an employment attorney and the appropriate state and local officials so that you have a clear understanding of your potential liability company may face. Use this information to develop a very simple policy, but clearly, that describes your EXPECTATIONS.