Unlawful sexual harassment has recently become the most visible employment issue in America. Though anti-discrimination laws have on the books for decades, victims are speaking out against unlawful conduct more than ever, as they should. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) statistics tell us these claims are nothing new. Since 2010 the EEOC has received over 12,000 charges of sexual harassment each year. The consequences of failing to address harassment claims are clear. It results in ruined business and personal reputation, business disruption, and significant monetary damage to businesses.
With the increased focus on workplace harassment, now is the time to be proactive and ensure your business is not at risk. What are the most important steps you should be taking?
Review your company’s existing anti-harassment policy;
Review your company’s internal harassment complaint procedure;
Train all employees (both supervisors and non-supervisors) on discrimination, harassment, reporting, and retaliation;
Ensure full, fair, and prompt investigation of all allegations of harassment and take prompt remedial action when necessary; and
Consistently enforce your company’s rules and policies.
As always, PMP is here to help. Our Human Resources Directors can review and draft harassment policies, train employees, and provide an independent investigation of harassment complaints. Please contact us so we can help keep your business compliant.
Article Prepared By:
Brian Shenker, Labor & Employment Law Attorney
