RKL’s Workforce Strategies team is here to help you navigate the complexities of today's HR environment with the updates, reminders and insights you need to maximize your most important asset — your people. We value your feedback, so let us know what you think of this newsletter!
OSHA Updates Hazard Communication Standard
OSHA’s Hazard Communication Standard ensures workers have clear information about the hazards of workplace chemicals. Manufacturers must evaluate chemical hazards and provide standardized labels and Safety Data Sheets, while employers must maintain these documents and train employees. Updates to the standard include specific hazard classifications, uniform label elements and a required 16-section Safety Data Sheet format.
The new standard rule will be effective beginning May 19, 2026.
How Franchises Can Utilize HR, Payroll and Financial Outsourcing
Franchise owners face added operational and compliance complexity beyond typical small businesses. Outsourcing payroll, HR, accounting and tax functions can reduce risk, ease administrative burden and provide clearer financial insight. An integrated approach helps improve visibility, support compliance and keep the focus on growth.
What to do When Your Employees are Resistant to AI Adoption
Employers face challenges in encouraging employees to adopt AI technology.
Here are some non-monetary ways to encourage use:
Recognition programs
Include AI wins in regular company communications or newsletters.
Learning programs and micro-credentials
Gamification
Innovation challenges
Leaderboards
Loyalty programs
Work flexibility or additional time off
A mix of recognition, learning and flexibility can turn AI adoption from a mandate into a shared opportunity. RKL Virtual Management Solutions can help design and implement practical strategies that support sustainable, organization-wide adoption.
Understand Your Business Better With a Workforce Assessment
A Workforce Assessment evaluates an organization’s people, processes and culture to identify causes of disengagement, turnover and productivity issues. RKL Virtual uses tailored tools and analysis to deliver actionable recommendations that support both immediate improvements and long-term workforce planning. The result is stronger alignment, improved engagement and better overall performance.
Address Skill Gaps with RKL Virtual's Advisory Support
New research from Robert Half shows that only 6% of organizations have the talent needed to complete their most important projects, with 62% of hiring managers reporting widening skills gaps across key functions. In response, 60% plan to hire permanent staff and 55% expect to increase contract roles to meet immediate needs.
With our deep bench of HR and payroll experts, our team is ready to help you bridge that gap with advisory support tailored to your most pressing workforce challenges.
In 2026, several states are enacting new laws regulating the use of AI in hiring and employment decisions, emphasizing anti-discrimination, transparency and employer oversight. Employers remain responsible for ensuring automated tools comply with civil rights standards, as enforcement efforts continue to evolve. HR teams should review their AI tools and compliance strategies to address this growing regulatory complexity.
New payroll technology often meets resistance because payroll is a high-risk function where accuracy, compliance and deadlines are critical. Without clear communication and support, change can feel like added risk rather than improvement.
Buy-in improves when payroll teams are involved early, understand why the change is happening and receive hands-on, role-based training during implementation.
RKL Virtual’s Workforce Strategies team helps organizations navigate this process through its HR & Payroll Solution powered by isolved®. From system selection and implementation to change management and ongoing support, the team works alongside payroll and HR professionals to streamline processes, strengthen compliance and drive confident adoption.
