Professional Documents
Culture Documents
Please read over the following handbook. You are required to review and
sign the Team Member Acknowledgment Form and send to Human
Resources within the first three (3) days of employment.
Al-Bari Group of Companies , Inc. (the Company or Al-Bari Group of Companies ) recognizes that our
team members have diverse needs. This handbook is designed to help you find answers to basic
questions about the Company’s philosophies, policies, practices, benefits, compensation programs, and
other essential elements of your employment.
Our goal with this handbook is to give you a tool to learn about Al-Bari Group of Companies ' environment
and enhance your contribution to the Company and to your position. You are encouraged to take the time
to read through this handbook and use it as a reference. If you don’t find the information you're seeking
in this handbook, please ask your supervisor or a member of the Human Resources Department.
Keep in mind this is an overview and cannot cover all the situations that may arise during your
employment with Al-Bari Group of Companies . The policies contained in this handbook do not represent
an employment contract and they supersede all previous company policies. Al-Bari Group of Companies
reserves the right to change these policies and practices to meet the changing needs of our Company
and team members. This handbook is in no way binding on Al-Bari Group of Companies . The Company
retains full discretion to depart from its own guidelines. Feel free to ask your supervisor or a Human
Resources Representative for more details about any aspect of your employment with Al-Bari Group of
Companies .
All Al-Bari Group of Companies team members are employed “at-will”. This means your employment can
be terminated at any time, with or without reason or with or without notice, by either you or the
Company. No representative of the company has any authority to enter into any agreement for
employment for any specified period of time or to make other commitments or promises or assure any
benefit or terms and conditions of employment unless such promises are made in writing and signed by
the president of the company.
Page 1
Copyright Al-Bari Group of
Companies , Inc. 2009
Table of Contents
POLICIES
Standards of Discipline and Conduct 9
Unlawful Harassment Policy 10
Reporting Procedures and Guidelines 11
Open Door Policy 11
Conflict of Interest 12
Employment of Friends and Family Members 12
Non-Fraternization Policy 13
Confidentiality and Conflict Issues 14
Customer Info Data Security 15
Al-Bari Group of Companies Privacy Policy 16
Use of Company Technology & Monitoring Guidelines 18
Computer Equipment 20
Social Media Policy 20
Safety Policy 22
Security Key Cards 23
Drug Free Workplace Policy 24
Workplace Violence Policy 27
Weapons 29
Non-Smoking Policy 29
Workers Compensation 50
Mission
Our mission is to be a single source for our clients to gain the knowledge, expertise to achieve their
goals.
Vision
Stimulate a positive, high-spirited and collaborative environment in the workplace.
Deliver high-speed and high-quality service to our customers.
Adapt to external changes with flexibility, innovation and leading edge technology.
Values
We are a learning community, empowered to serve our customers with integrity, commitment and
passion.
Our mission is to be a single source for our clients to gain the knowledge, expertise and IT infrastructure
to achieve their goals.
Client-Centric: We are dedicated to following the five-star service methodology to create values for
our customers.
Passion for Technology: We are passionate about technology and the opportunities it provides our
clients to maximize impact.
Global Teaming: Undivided by boundaries, we foster collaboration and teamwork to spark
innovation and deliver results.
Embracing Change: We have the courage to adapt and evolve our model to take advantage of new
opportunities in a dynamic and changing industry.
Lifelong Learning: Learning is a lifelong process and we develop our talent through continuous
training and engagements with partners and across teams.
Focus on Results
To create long-term impacts by providing our clients with the capacity and IT infrastructure for
extraordinary performance.
Consider it Done Approach
To support our clients through every stage of the delivery process.
Openness
To take the initiative to understand the industry, business model and goals of each client in order
to develop valuable and relevant solutions.
Proactive Partnership
To leverage our resources all over the world to provide high-speed and high-quality solutions
At–Will Employment
It must be remembered that the continuing employment relationship is based upon the mutual consent of
the team member and the Company. All employment with Al-Bari Group of Companies is for an indefinite
and unspecified duration of time. Employment at Al-Bari Group of Companies is employment at-will and
may be resigned, transferred, reassigned, suspended, demoted or terminated at any time, with or
without reason, and with or without advance notice at the will of either Al-Bari Group of Companies or
the team member. You have the right to terminate your employment and compensation at any time, with
or without notice, and Al-Bari Group of Companies has a similar right.
Although other terms or conditions of employment may change, this at-will employment relationship as
defined above will remain in effect throughout your employment with Al-Bari Group of Companies . The
at-will nature of your employment your employment relationship cannot be changed, waived or modified
except by an individual written employment agreement signed by the team member and the Chief
Executive Officer of the Company. Furthermore, no team member or representative of Al-Bari Group of
Companies , other than the Chief Executive Officer has any power or legal authority to alter the “at-will”
nature of the employment relationship.
Employment at-will is the sole and entire agreement between Al-Bari Group of Companies and you
concerning the duration of your employment and the circumstances under which your employment may
be terminated. The handbook shall supersede any and all prior handbooks, written documents or oral
representations, issued by Al-Bari Group of Companies that contradict the at-will nature of your
employment.
Additionally, this team member Handbook is not a contract of employment. Therefore, this Handbook
should not be interpreted to create any expressed or implied contractual rights between Al-Bari Group
of Companies and any team member.
The use of any disciplinary warnings is completely within the discretion of the management. Giving a
disciplinary warning or warnings in one instance does not require the Company to use such warning or
warnings in any other instances nor does it modify the at-will employment relationship in any way.
Accordingly, the Company reserves the right to utilize any of the disciplinary actions described in this
policy on a “first time” basis.
Unlawful Harassment Policy
Every team member has the right to work in an atmosphere free of harassment and discrimination. Al-
Bari Group of Companies fully supports and complies with federal and state laws forbidding this conduct.
Actions, words, jokes, or comments based on an individual’s race, color, ethnicity, religion, national
origin, citizenship, marital status, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, military status,
disability, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or local law are
not tolerated.
All supervisors have an affirmative duty under this policy to protect team members from unlawful
harassment and to promptly report any alleged incidents or concerns to the Human Resources Manager.
Conflict of Interest
It is your responsibility to promote the Company's best interests at all times. This is an obligation to your
fellow team members, customers, and all others concerned with or dependent upon the welfare and
progress of the Company. A conflict of interest occurs when your judgment in acting in the Company's
best interest is adversely affected. Examples include:
Accepting gratuities from other companies or individuals that do business with Al-Bari Group of
Companies or seek to do business with Al-Bari Group of Companies . ALL team members may only
accept gifts with a value of $50 or less; cash gifts are never acceptable. If you receive a gift or a
permanent demo of greater value, contact your immediate supervisor of your division or the Vice
President of Human Resources. ALL gifts are considered the property of Al-Bari Group of Companies and
should not be retained by any team member for any reason. Any IT gift or demo received for personal
use must be turned over to the IT Department for asset tagging and redeployment.
Rendering services to competitors.
Using or permitting others to use Company documents, equipment, or trade secrets for purposes
other than those sanctioned by the Company.
Benefiting personally from any purchases or sales by the Company by any means other than your
approved wage/salary and/or commission or bonuses.
Employment of relatives or individuals with a personal relationship in a direct reporting line or
other positions which may present the perception of a conflict of interest.
If you are unsure if a situation would present a conflict of interest, then contact Human Resources.
Family members are defined as parents, children, spouses, domestic partners, siblings, cousins,
nieces/nephews, aunts/ uncles, and grandparents and those same relationships engendered by in-laws
and step-families.
Employment Details
Limitation
Direct Supervision Employment of family members or individuals with personal
relationships is not allowed in cases of supervisor/subordinate
relationships or other sensitive work situations.
Family members will not be hired or transferred under the
direct or indirect supervision of family members.
Supervision includes the full span of control of the family
member in the most senior position.
Same Department Family members are strongly discouraged from being hired
or transferred to work under the same SVP. Divisional SVP and HR
VP approval is required.
If marriage or other factors cause either of the above
Change in Status or
situations to occur, it will be the right of the divisional SVP and HR
Assignment
VP to evaluate and make the best decision for the business
including possible transfer or termination of employment.
Non-Fraternization Policy
Purpose and Scope
Al-Bari Group of Companies strives to provide an environment for that is respectful, fair and free of
unlawful harassment or discrimination. In keeping with its commitment to provide equal opportunity to
our team members, and in order to avoid potential conflicts of interest, favoritism, exploitation,
harassment or breaches of
professional standards, Al-Bari Group of Companies prohibits romantic or intimate nature
relationships where there is supervision, direction or control between the parties.
A “personal relationship” is defined as a relationship between individuals who have or have had a
continuing relationship of a romantic or intimate nature.
An employee who is involved in a personal relationship with another employee may not occupy a position
in the same department as, work directly for or supervise the employee with whom he or she is involved.
Al-Bari Group of Companies reserves the right to take prompt action if an actual or potential conflict of
interest arises concerning individuals who engage in a personal relationship that may affect terms and
conditions of employment. Supervisors and managers are prohibited from dating subordinates and may
be disciplined for such actions, up to and including termination.
When a conflict or the potential for conflict arises because of a personal relationship between employees,
even if there is no line of authority or reporting involved, the employees may be separated by
reassignment, or terminated from employment. If such a personal relationship between employees
develops, it is the responsibility and obligation of the employees involved to disclose the existence of the
relationship to the department director or manager.
When a conflict or a potential for conflict affecting terms or conditions of employment arises because of
the relationship, the individuals concerned will be given the opportunity to decide who is to be transferred
to another position, or terminated, if no position is available. If no decision is made within 30 calendar
days of the offer to resolve the situation, Al-Bari Group of Companies will determine who is to be
transferred or, if necessary, terminated from employment.
Privacy Policy
Al-Bari Group of Companies , Inc., (“Al-Bari Group of Companies ” or “we”) a global IT solutions
provider, delivers products and services to help companies make a complete digital transformation –
from desktop to data center – to the cloud and beyond. Al-Bari Group of Companies is committed to
Customer privacy. We regularly review our privacy policies to ensure we remain current with applicable
laws, as well as ensuring the goodwill of our Customers.
This privacy policy (“Privacy Policy”) explains how Al-Bari Group of Companies and its affiliates collect,
retain, use, disclose, or otherwise process information about our Customers and potential customers (each,
a “Customer”, or “You”).
It is each team member’s responsibility to review and comply with any updates to this policy issued by
Al-Bari Group of Companies . The application of this policy will be consistent with federal law.
Safety Policy
All employees are required to be professional and conscientious at all times when using company phones,
personal cell phones for company businesses, and/or other personal electronic devices issued by the
company and/or used for company businesses.
For the safety of our team members and others it is imperative that team members do not operate a
personal electronic device with either hand or both hands while operating any sort of vehicle. Additionally,
texting on any personal electronic device using the hands is strictly prohibited while operating any sort of
vehicle. While driving, team members are required to pull over and stop at a safe location to dial, text, or
use by hand any personal electronic device.
Scope
This policy applies to all team members of Al-Bari Group of Companies . Compliance with all elements of
this policy is a condition of employment.
General Prohibitions
The following conduct by any team member is prohibited and will result in disciplinary action, up to and
including termination:
1. Use, possession, sale, distribution, or being under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol while on
Al-Bari Group of Companies property, while performing Al-Bari Group of Companies business in any
location, in a Al-Bari Group of Companies vehicle, or while driving on company business.
2. Use, possession, sale, distribution, or being under the influence of illegal drugs or alcohol off the
job when such use adversely affects the team member’s on-the-job performance, behavior, Al-Bari
Group of Companies reputation, or service quality.
3. Use of prescription or over-the-counter medication that is contrary to its intended use on or off the
job without prior advanced notice and approval as stated in this policy.
4. The conviction of a team member for an illegal or alcohol related crime on or off the job. Team
Members are required to notify Al-Bari Group of Companies of any criminal drug statute convictions no
later than five (5) days after such a conviction.
5. Although Washington State has legalized marijuana for medicinal or recreational purposes, the
Company is not required to allow the medicinal use of marijuana in the workplace. Marijuana use or being
under the influence is strictly prohibited on Company property and while conducting Company business.
Testing
All persons covered by this policy shall, as a condition of employment, submit to a drug and/or alcohol
test in each of the following circumstances:
Post-Accident: A team member may be subject to a drug/alcohol test if the worker suffers, or
causes another team member to suffer a reportable injury as a result of an on-the-job accident or the
team member’s job performance actions or conduct either contributed to an accident or cannot be
completely discounted as a contributing factor to an accident, where there is reasonable possibility that
drug use by the employee contributed to the accident or injury. Testing may also be required if the team
member’s conduct resulted in or contributed to damage to Al-Bari Group of Companies property or injury
to another individual. Follow-up: A team member who is returning to duty in accordance with a Last
Chance Agreement or Rehabilitation Agreement is subject to unannounced unscheduled testing for
twenty-four (24) months or a period recommended by the substance abuse professional, whichever is
longer. The timing and number of the tests will be at the sole discretion of the Employer.
Inspections
Although Al-Bari Group of Companies does not intend to authorize indiscriminate searches of lockers,
desks, work areas or personal effects, it reserves the right to conduct such searches - if Al-Bari Group of
Companies reasonably believes that a team member is in possession or control of prohibited drugs or
unauthorized prescription medication. At no time will team members be touched nor will any clothing be
removed. Team members are required to cooperate when searches are conducted. Failure to cooperate
will result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
Refusal to Cooperate
Refusal by a team member to consent, immediately upon request, to a test for the presence of drugs,
prescription medication, alcohol or to otherwise fully cooperate in an investigation pursuant to this policy
will result in disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
Prescribed Medication
Any team member taking prescribed medication that may impair his or her ability to work safely and
productively must notify Human Resources prior to beginning work. Such medication may include, but is
not limited to that which warns the user not to operate motor vehicles or heavy equipment while taking
the drug or warns that the drug may cause drowsiness. Upon notification, a determination will then be
made by the team member’s physician as to what job restrictions, if any, may be necessary for the
duration of the covered team member's medication treatment. Information regarding the prescription
medication is given only to those persons who "need-to-know." Failure by the team member in advance of
work to notify a Al-Bari Group of Companies official regarding medication that may cause impairment can
result in discipline, up to and including termination of employment. Team members must keep all
prescription medication in its original container, which identifies the drug, date of prescription and
prescribing physician.
“Prescribed Medication” means any substance prescribed by a licensed medical practitioner for the
individual consuming it that is capable of impairing the judgment or ability of the team member to safely
perform his or her duties.
Definitions
Workplace violence is any intentional conduct that is sufficiently severe, offensive, or intimidating to cause
an individual to reasonably fear for his or her personal safety or the safety of his or her family, friends,
and/or property such that employment conditions are altered or a hostile, abusive, or intimidating work
environment is created. Workplace violence may involve any threats or acts of violence occurring on
Company premises, regardless of the relationship between the Company and the parties involved in the
incident. It also includes threats or acts of violence that affect the business interests of the Company or
that may lead to an incident of violence on Company premises. Threats or acts of violence occurring off
Company premises that involve team members, agents, or individuals acting as a representative of the
Company, whether as victims of or active participants in the conduct, may also constitute workplace
violence. Specific examples of conduct that may constitute threats or acts of violence under this policy
include, but are not limited to, the following:
Threats or acts of physical or aggressive contact directed toward another individual
Threats or acts of physical harm directed toward any individuals or their family, friends, associates,
or property
The intentional destruction or threat of destruction of Company property or another team
member's property
Harassing or threatening phone calls
Surveillance
Stalking
Veiled threats of physical harm or similar intimidation
Conduct resulting in the conviction under any criminal code provision relating to violence or threats
of violence that adversely affects the Company's legitimate business interests.
Workplace violence does not refer to occasional comments of a socially acceptable nature. These
comments may include references to legitimate sporting activities, popular entertainment or current
events. Rather, it refers to behavior that is personally offensive, threatening or intimidating.
Enforcement
Any person who engages in a threat or violent action on Company property may be removed from the
premises as quickly as safety permits and may be required, at the Company's discretion, to remain off
Company premises pending the outcome of an investigation of the incident.
When threats are made, or acts of violence are committed by a team member, judgment will be made by
the Company as to what actions are appropriate with respect to that team member, including potential
medical evaluation and/or disciplinary action up to and including termination.
Reporting
If you feel someone’s comments or actions fall under the items mentioned above, you should contact your
manager or a member of the human resources department immediately. If you are unsure about the
person’s behavior or comments error on the side of being cautious and report the situation. It is better to
be safe than sorry.
If you have obtained an Order for Victim Protection that includes Al-Bari Group of Companies as your
workplace, immediately provide a copy of the order to Human Resources or your supervisor. Orders for
Victim Protection include the following types of court orders – protection order, no contact order,
restraining order and anti- harassment order.
Important Note: Al-Bari Group of Companies will make the sole determination of whether, and to what
extent, threats or acts of violence will be acted upon by the Company. In making this determination, the
Company may undertake a case-by-case analysis in order to ascertain whether there is a reasonable basis
to believe that
workplace violence has occurred. No provision of this policy alters the at-will nature of employment at
Al-Bari Group of Companies .
Weapons
Weapons are never permitted on Company premises, including inside vehicles in our parking lot. Any
team member who brings a gun, knife, explosives, or other weapon to work, even if left in a vehicle
parked on our premises, will be terminated immediately. This policy applies even if the person has a
permit to carry a concealed weapon.
Non-Smoking Policy
Al-Bari Group of Companies recognizes that tobacco products have been proven to cause serious health
risks to those who use them. Smoking and vaping carries many costs, including higher medical expenses
and reduced productivity. In addition, Al-Bari Group of Companies has chosen to be a company that
supports and fosters healthy living habits.
STANDARDS AND EXPECTATIONS
Use of tobacco products (including cigarettes, e-cigarettes, cigars, pipes, smokeless tobacco, vaping, or
other tobacco products) is prohibited at all times on Al-Bari Group of Companies property which
includes:
1. All interior space owned, rented, or leased by Al-Bari Group of Companies
2. All outside property or grounds owned or wholly leased by Al-Bari Group of Companies ,
including parking areas and private vehicles while they are on Al-Bari Group of Companies property
3. Al-Bari Group of Companies owned vehicles
It will be the expectation that all team members will adhere to this policy. Failure to comply with this
policy could result in discipline as outlined in the Team Member Handbook.
Scope
The purpose of this policy is to set forth Al-Bari Group of Companies statement of policy and procedures
for handling employee absences and instances of tardiness.
Conclusion
This policy includes general guidelines for action under the policy. Attendance is a factor in the evaluation
of individual job performance, and good attendance is a basic condition of continuing employment.
Attendance records, including disciplinary actions, will be kept in the team member’s personnel file.
In dealing with attendance situations, Al-Bari Group of Companies Inc. will consider all facts and
circumstances, including the team member’s overall attendance and performance records, reasons for
missing work, and prospects of future improvement and maintenance of an acceptable attendance
records. Al-Bari Group of Companies Inc. reserves the right to make exceptions to the disciplinary
procedures outlined in the policy. This policy supersedes all previous practices and policies related to
attendance, early departures and/or punctuality.
Inclement Weather
If you are unable to get to work due to inclement weather, you should do what is both safe and
responsible, calling in to your manager to report your absence. If you cannot reach your manager, leave a
voicemail message with a number where you can be reached.
If you are at work and the weather turns inclement, discuss the situation with your manager and, with his
or her approval, use your best judgment about when you need to leave to make it home safely.
Both hourly and salaried team members should have their manager document any absence due to
inclement weather in the HRZone, marking it as either floating holiday, or vacation if the team member
has accrued hours available. Salaried team members need only document full day absences; hourly team
members need to report total hours missed/worked.
The bottom line is your personal safety, but even in inclement weather, we have many customers in non-
inclement areas to serve, so always try to make a responsible decision.
If you believe the weather is so severe that Al-Bari Group of Companies will not be open for business or
in the case of a disaster such as an earthquake, call (253) 333-6836 to check for a recorded message to
verify if we are open for business.
Personal Appearance
A positive and professional image is very important for our company. Customers, vendors, visitors, and
your fellow team members often form an opinion of you and the Company based on your appearance and
attire. Thus, it is important that we all be conscientious about what we wear and how we look so we
reflect a professional, competent, and businesslike quality. Monday through Thursday our appearance
standards are formal.
Hair is to be neat and clean. Beards and moustaches should be neatly trimmed. A garment with an
offensive message is never appropriate in the workplace.
If you are visiting a customer site your appearance should reflect their dress standard. However, your
attire should be no more casual than our business casual standard. Team members in certain areas such
as facilities and parts of MIS where they are moving computers, wiring, cleaning up etc., are permitted to
wear formal clothing all week.
If you are dressed inappropriately for work, your supervisor will address the issue with you. Continued
inappropriate dress may result in disciplinary action.
When in doubt that something is acceptable, ask your manager or a human resources representative.
Personal Information
When you move, change your phone number, or make other changes to your personal information, you
need to inform Human Resources by emailing the HRTeam@Al-Bari Group of Companies .com. It is
your responsibility to keep your team member records up to date so that we can communicate with
you when needed.
Visitors
All visitors must check in at the reception desk and upon a Team Member’s approval can obtain a visitor's
identification badge. Team members should not allow other people to enter the building unless they are
authorized to be here. Do not hesitate to challenge someone who is attempting to enter the building by
asking to see a key card authorizing access to the building. This helps ensure that the building is secure
for everyone.
While we know how important a team member's family is to our mutual success, use good judgment when
allowing visitors into our workplace. Escort family members at all times and don't permit disruption to the
work environment. Team members are responsible for their visitor's conduct. Also, to ensure everyone's
safety and well-being on the job, pets are prohibited on the premises at all times.
COMPENSATION &
BENEFITS
Total Compensation
Al-Bari Group of Companies has been and will continue to be committed to recruiting, hiring, developing,
compensating, and promoting the best qualified individuals for positions at all levels within the Company.
The Company's goals are only achieved if the Company obtains, enhances, and utilizes the abilities of
superior candidates at all levels. We maintain our unequivocal commitment to and support of equal
employment opportunity for all individuals, free from discrimination based on race, color, ethnicity,
religion, national origin, citizenship, marital status, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age,
military status, disability, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable federal, state or
local law. In exchange for your contribution, Al-Bari Group of Companies offers a total compensation
package that may include wages, benefits such as health coverage, vacation, sick leave, holiday pay, and
more. You have an influence on the value of your total compensation through your job performance and
the choices you make. Outlined in this section are details on the components of your total compensation
package.
*Those employees that are governed by a Union agreement will have variations in Time
Reporting policies. Please see Union agreement for policy details.
Employment Categories
To insure team members understand their employment status, it is the intent of Al-Bari Group of
Companies to clarify the definitions of employment classifications.
Each team member is designated as either non-exempt (hourly) or exempt (from overtime) based upon
federal and state wage and hour laws. Non-exempt status team members are eligible for overtime pay
under the specific provisions of federal and state laws. Exempt status team members are excluded from
the specific provisions and not eligible for overtime pay. Human Resources evaluates positions to
determine the correct pay group.
Team members are also classified as full-time, part-time, or temporary. Team members who are hired to
work thirty (30) hours or more per week are considered full-time. Team members hired to work twenty
(20) hours but less than thirty (30) hours are considered regular part-time. A team member hired with the
expectation that they will be needed for a short period of time or who works less than twenty (20) hours a
week is considered to be a temporary team member.
Breaks and Meal Periods
Each non-exempt hourly team member is entitled to a fifteen (15) minute paid break for every four (4)
hour period worked and a thirty (30) minute unpaid meal period. Al-Bari Group of Companies has set its
payroll systems to allow all hourly team members to take a one (1) hour meal break. Unless otherwise
specified, the time system will automatically deduct 1 hour each day for this meal period. If a team
member does not plan to take a one (1) hour meal break, they must clock out for their respective meal
period and then clock back in after returning to work, this will override the automatic deduction. Please
note that the duration of time away still cannot be less than 30 minutes.
If a team member would prefer to only take a thirty (30) minute meal break on a daily basis, they must
obtain manager approval. These break and mealtimes need to be taken during every shift.
Overtime
Non-exempt hourly team members who qualify for overtime pay according to the Fair Labor Standards Act
(FLSA) receive overtime pay for actual hours worked over forty (40) in a given week, excluding the lunch
period and any non-work hours or as otherwise required by state regulations. You must have pre-approval
from your manager in order to work overtime or take work home with you. If at any time you work more
than forty (40) hours in a week, you must promptly report those hours, in writing, to your supervisor.
Under no circumstances are non-exempt team members permitted to work overtime without receiving
overtime pay. Team members who violate this policy are subject to disciplinary action, up to and including
termination. Paid Time Off (PTO) and other non-worked hours are not included when computing overtime
hours. "Comp time" - taking additional time off to compensate for overtime- is not authorized under any
circumstance.
Direct Deposit
Team members are encouraged to sign up for direct deposit, a service that can be set up by Al-Bari Group
of Companies with any bank or credit union. On each payday, you receive a pay statement with tax and
other information attached, such as deductions and year-to-date pay. If you would like to have your
paychecks deposited directly into your bank account, please reach out to the Payroll Team. You can have
your wages divided between more than one account and more than one bank. It usually takes two
paydays to set this up. You receive a regular paycheck until the direct deposit is complete. You are highly
encouraged to take advantage of direct deposit.
Payroll Deductions
All team members are subject to taxes on earnings and other deductions required by law, including:
Federal Income Contributions Act (FICA)
Federal Withholding (Income Tax)
State and local taxes, if applicable
Paycheck Error
It is our policy to comply with the salary basis requirements of the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA).
Therefore, we prohibit any improper deductions made from the salaries of exempt employees. In the
event of an error, we will make every attempt to adjust the error no later than your next regular pay
period. If you have a question concerning your paycheck, contact your manager. Your manager may need
to contact Payroll.
Final Pay
If a team member is terminated or leaves the Company, the team member's final check(s) are issued on
the next regular pay period(s) except as required under state regulations.
Benefits
The Summary Plan Documents can be found on the Human Resources page of Ozone under the benefits
section. When you are eligible for benefits, you will be scheduled to attend a class.
Open Enrollment
Al-Bari Group of Companies open enrollment is held every year in September. This is the one month of
the year when every eligible team member can make voluntary changes to their healthcare coverage. All
changes and updates made during open enrollment take effect October 1. If you have any questions,
contact HRTeam@Al-Bari Group of Companies .com.
Termination of Insurance Coverage
Coverage is terminated at the end of the month following a loss of eligibility or separation of employment.
For more information contact HRTeam@Al-Bari Group of Companies .com.
Overview
At Al-Bari Group of Companies we work hard but also believe that taking time off from work is
essential, both personally and professionally. Paid Time Off (PTO) is a benefit that Al-Bari Group of
Companies provides to team members so they have the control to use a single allotment of PTO as they
see fit and be responsible for managing their time off for vacation and illness, according to what is
important to them.
All team members may request PTO, subject to manager approval (after 90 days of employment) for a
variety of reasons, including planned vacations, personal days off, and short- term illness or injury, etc.
PTO taken for short-term illness or injury cannot exceed 120 hours per year and may require additional
documentation*. PTO requests must be manager approved and are not guaranteed to be approved,
partially or in whole. Team members are expected to manage their PTO in a manner that insures they
complete their productivity, deadlines, customer needs, and all job performance requirements.
The PTO granted under this policy is similar to an income replacement insurance benefit. PTO is not
considered accrued time or vested wages. Team members will not be paid for PTO at the end of
employment unless otherwise required by law.
Those employees who report into a customer location will have variations in PTO policies which will
conform to assignment specifications. Those employees who are governed by a Union agreement will have
variations in PTO policies—see Union agreement for policy details
This policy provides general guidelines for action under the policy which changed effective January 1,
2018. Al-Bari Group of Companies , Inc. reserves the right to make exceptions to this PTO policy.
This policy supersedes all previous practices and policies related to vacation, vacation balances, and
vacation accruals.
*See related Attendance Policy, Leave of Absence policy, and disability benefits information and contact
your Human Resources Business Partner for more details.
Benefit Details
For Salaried Exempt people managers and above, Al-Bari Group of Companies does not limit the
number of PTO hours that team members may use each year, subject to manager approval.
For Hourly Non- Exempt team members and Salaried Exempt team members below the level of people
manager, the number of PTO hours available for use each year is based on team members’ years of
service per the following calculation:
Salaried Exempt team members may use PTO in full day or four- hour increments only.
PTO taken for short-term illness or injury cannot exceed 120 hours. Team Members who are granted a
leave of absence which qualifies as a federal or state legislated job- protected leave will be eligible to use
up to 120 hours of available PTO.
PTO will be paid based on the team member’s regular pay rate and does not include overtime,
commission, or bonuses. PTO hours are not considered hours worked and are excluded from overtime
calculations in the week. If a paid holiday falls during a period of pre- approved PTO, the team member
will be paid for the holiday, and those hours will not be considered PTO.
PTO may not be used after the team member has given notice, unless prohibited by state law. A team
member’s last day of work cannot be a PTO day. Financial compensation is not provided in lieu of PTO
time.
Schedule/Report/Track
For pre-scheduled PTO unrelated to illness or injury, team members and people managers should both
take responsibility for scheduling the time to meet departmental and team requirements. Each department
establishes their own practices for requesting and using PTO. Managers have the final approval for all pre-
scheduled PTO.
For PTO due to illness or injury, team members are to notify their manager before the
scheduled start of the workday and should call in to their manager on each additional day of absence.
Medical and dental appointments, unless an emergency, must be reported to the manager in advance for
team members to use PTO. See the Attendance Policy for additional details on the tracking process for
unscheduled absences.
Team members below the level of Vice President are responsible for submitting their PTO requests to their
manager for approval via HRZone. Managers are responsible for processing their team members’ PTO
requests in HRZone where PTO usage will be tracked.
Effective January 1, 2018 neither vacation nor sick time will accrue. Previously accrued vacation time as of
December 31, 2017 is paid out if a team member leaves Al-Bari Group of Companies ; previously accrued
sick time as of December 31, 2017 is not paid out if a team member leaves Al-Bari Group of Companies ,
except where prohibited by state law.
Previously accrued vacation time as of December 31, 2017 will be used when a team member takes time
off work in 2018 until the balance is exhausted. Previously accrued sick time as of December 31, 2017
will be used when a team member takes time off work for approved Family Medical Leave Act (FMLA) time
in 2018 until the balance is exhausted,
except where prohibited by state law. Effective January 1, 2019 any remaining vacation balances will be
reviewed, and a determination made on ongoing tracking.
Holidays
Al-Bari Group of Companies offers seven (7) paid holidays per year. All team members in active status
are eligible to be paid for holidays; there is no waiting period. In addition, Al-Bari Group of Companies
will also offer Christmas Eve as a holiday when Christmas Eve falls on a week day; however, during years
when Christmas holidays occur on weekends, an alternate holiday schedule will take place. Please refer to
the holiday schedule on OZONE for a listing of current year observed holidays. In the event you are
scheduled to work on a holiday, you may choose an alternate day subject to the approval of your
manager.
Our seven (7) holidays are as follows: New Year’s Day; Memorial Day; Independence Day; Labor Day;
Thanksgiving; Day After Thanksgiving; Christmas Day and/or Christmas Eve (please see above).
Al-Bari Group of Companies additionally offers Floating Holidays based on years of service and
applicable to all eligible team members who have completed ninety (90) calendar days with the
Company:
Floating Holidays may be used for the same reasons as Paid Time Off (PTO) and must be
scheduled and reported in the same way as PTO. Team members may use Floating Holidays in full day
increments only. If a team member leaves the company prior to using a Floating Holiday, it is not paid
out.
Usage
In order to be paid for a holiday, team members must work their scheduled days (or take pre-approved
PTO) before and after the holiday. If you have an unexcused absence the day before or the day after a
holiday, even if you receive PTO pay, you are not eligible for holiday pay.
If you are on a leave of absence and are being paid by Al-Bari Group of Companies you will receive
holiday pay. If you are on a leave of absence and not being paid by Al-Bari Group of Companies you are
not eligible for holiday pay.
Holiday pay is calculated based on the team member’s regular pay rate. Holiday hours are not considered
hours worked and are excluded from overtime calculations in the week. Non- exempt team members
working part of a holiday will be paid for hours worked in addition to the holiday. Financial compensation
is not provided in lieu of Holiday time.
Holiday hours may not be used after the team member has given notice. A team member’s last day of
work cannot be a holiday.
Bereavement Leave
In the unfortunate event of the death of an immediate family member, a team member with ninety (90)
days of employment with Al-Bari Group of Companies is granted up to three (3) days paid bereavement
leave, provided their manager has been properly informed. “Immediate family” is defined to include
spouse, registered domestic partner, (step) children, (step) parents, (step) parents-in-law, (step)
siblings, grandparents, or grandchildren. This paid leave must be taken within ten (10) calendar days
from the date of death. If a team member is eligible for sick or vacation time, and they receive VP
approval, they may use their sick leave or vacation accrual to cover a longer leave or one that involves a
family member other than that described above.
Leaves of Absences
Time away from work is occasionally needed to recover from an illness, enjoy the birth or adoption of a
new family member, or take care of personal obligations. For reasons such as these, Al-Bari Group of
Companies allows team members the following leaves of absence, subject to department VP and
Director of Human Resources approval:
Family Medical Leave (FMLA)
Medical Leave (not covered under FMLA)
Personal Leave
Medical Verification
Team members requesting leave for medical reasons must provide certification from a physician or
licensed healthcare provider on the form required by the federal government. Team members are required
to return the medical certification within 15 days of receipt of this form.
Al-Bari Group of Companies may require team members to obtain a second opinion by a provider of the
Company’s choice at its expense. If the first and second opinions conflict, Al-Bari Group of Companies
may pay for a third and final health care provider to offer a decision.
Medical Leave
When a team member does not meet the requirements for a leave under FMLA, the employee may apply
for a medical leave for their serious health condition. Expectant team members may also qualify for
medical leave for the birth of a child. The leave is approved at the discretion of the VP and the Director of
Human Resources. The team member needs to provide a doctor’s statement prior to the leave
commencing. If you are on a leave of absence and are being paid by Al-Bari Group of Companies you
receive holiday pay. If you are on a leave of absence and not being paid by Al-Bari Group of Companies
you are not eligible for holiday pay.
Personal Leave
Occasionally a situation arises where a team member needs time off to attend to personal business. If the
team member has vacation accrued or a floating holiday available, that time needs to be used. If the team
member does not have any accrued time or has exhausted all time off, he or she may apply for a personal
leave of absence. The company may grant time off up to one month depending on the business needs of
the department and the company, the length of service of the team member, and the level of the team
member’s performance. Team members on a personal leave are transferred to an hourly status. If you
are on a leave of absence and are being paid by Al-Bari Group of Companies you receive holiday pay. If
you are on a leave of absence and not being paid by Al-Bari Group of Companies you are not eligible for
holiday pay. Failure to return to work at the conclusion of the approved leave is considered a voluntary
resignation. To the extent allowed by law, all leaves will run concurrently.
Worker's Compensation
Al-Bari Group of Companies pays Worker's Compensation insurance at no cost to team members.
Worker's Compensation is paid through state programs and provides coverage for hospitalization and
medical expenses resulting from job-related injuries and illnesses in accordance with the appropriate
state laws. It is company policy that you need to report any on the job illness or injury to your supervisor
and to Human Resources within a reasonable time, however minor and whether or not medical treatment
is required. Coverage begins immediately upon employment.
PERFORMANCE &
REWARDS
Performance Management Process
To help you and your manager identify the contribution you make to Al-Bari Group of Companies , we
have a program called Performance Management Process. Performance management is a continuous
process that sets expectations for your job performance, provides you with feedback, and helps direct
your development on the job.
Expectations
The first part of setting expectations is a current job description that clearly lists the basic duties and
responsibilities of your position. Although we continue to grow and develop new positions, every position
at Al-Bari Group of Companies has a job description. While job descriptions aren’t intended to list every
task, they do contain the primary duties of positions. We also use job descriptions to plan, determine pay
ranges and budget for Al-Bari Group of Companies future staffing and training needs, and to help you
learn about other Al-Bari Group of Companies positions in which you may be interested. You may obtain
a copy of your standardized job description from your supervisor or Human Resources.
Performance Standards
You were hired to join our team because we believed you were the most appropriate person for the
position. We have high expectations of your job performance, so we ask managers to set performance
standards and clearly communicate your expected work results. Standards are established for your
position and define how your performance is measured. Standards may change through the year, just as
your job responsibilities may change as you learn and develop new skills and knowledge. Be flexible and
work with your manager to help your career advance.
Parking Policy
This policy was created to comply with Washington State Commute Laws, Fire Department regulations, for
the safety of our team members and their vehicles and to ensure only Al-Bari Group of Companies team
members and our visitors are parking in our lot.
1. All team members must have their vehicle registered (including license plate number). If you need
to register your vehicle, please do so at the Front Desk.
2. Parking along the curbsides is a violation of Fire Department regulations. Violators will be towed at
the owner’s expense.
Violation of this policy will result in the following actions:
First time – Warning sticker on the car.
Second time – Warning sticker on the car and an e-mail to the team member and manager.
Managers should respond by following up with the team member to reinforce the need to comply with
parking policy.
Third time – The vehicle is towed at the owner's expense.
This policy was created for the benefit and safety of our team members. We ask that all team members
abide by it. If you have questions, please contact a Human Resources representative. There are many
ways you can take advantage of the CTR:
Guaranteed Ride Home
As part of Company's CTR Program, a guaranteed ride home is offered in case of an emergency to any
team member who carpool, vanpool, walk or bike to work. Al-Bari Group of Companies provides this
service through a contract with a local taxi company. Contact the front desk if you need to use this
service.
and whether or not medical treatment is required. Coverage begins immediately upon employment.
Events
Annually Al-Bari Group of Companies has a summer event for all team members and their immediate
family or one guest. We also have an annual awards banquet held early in the year. In addition, Al-Bari
Group of Companies arranges for offsite group events such as attending sports and cultural events. Team
members and their family and friends can take advantage of discounted tickets for these events. We
normally host quarter end parties for team members each quarter.