As retailers and other businesses temporarily increase staffing levels to accommodate heightened seasonal consumer demand, the U.S. Department of Labor is reminding employers of the necessity of complying with federal labor laws related to safety, pay, and benefits.

“The busy holiday shopping season places heavy demands on employers and employees, particularly in the retail, warehouse, and delivery sectors. It is critical for employers to understand the rules of the road when it comes to ensuring safe and healthy working conditions, as well as complying with pay and benefits laws,” said Nicholas C. Geale, Acting Solicitor of the Department of Labor. “Compliance with federal labor laws is a necessity. The Department of Labor is a resource for helping employees understand their rights under the law and for helping employers understand their obligations.”