Underwriters Laboratories (UL) has released the 2012 findings of its annual global study, The Product Mindset, which examines manufacturer and consumer perceptions about how products are made, sold, bought and consumed. This year's findings show high expectations about quality and safety.

In order to ensure a safe workplace while fully complying with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), employers need to understand their rights and responsibilities, as well as the rights of job applicants and employees.

According to Bill McBean, there are seven important facts about business ownership. Facts that could help you avoid the mistakes and pitfalls that trip up so many other businesses, and go on to achieve the success you’ve dreamed of. He calls them the Facts of Business Life.

For many companies this time of year means planning the annual holiday party. This is not as simple as it seems. When employees cut loose at company-sponsored functions, the results can lead to sexual harassment charges and other liability issues.

According to a 2012 study of more than 1,300 U.S. workers, 75 percent of employees believe their company is not well-prepared for a natural disaster. Cintas Corp., a leader in first-aid and safety products, identifies seven mistakes businesses make in emergency planning to encourage better preparation.

As the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) beefs up its whistleblower program, employers should brace themselves for more claims and investigations. Over the last year, OSHA has been developing a “multifaceted plan for strengthening the enforcement of 21 whistleblower laws under its jurisdiction.”

It happens all the time: The hard-working crew at a small business loses customers thanks to the sour grapes of one person. It could be a disgruntled employee, an angry customer, or even a competitor. But as damaging as a bad review can be, positive reviews can be equally constructive.

Disability claims are always challenging for employers, but this is especially the case when pregnant workers suffer complications that leave them unable to perform their normal job duties.

If you’re the person responsible for sales and you haven’t sold a dime for days, you might be tempted to think negatively. You might become critical of yourself or others. This can do nothing to help you. It’s important that you remain logical and not emotional.

For the first time, the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) has revealed how many discrimination charges and which types of charges have been filed in each state and territory since 2009. Now, companies can access this information for each state where they have sites and offices.