Workplace harassment can disrupt your professional life and well-being. Knowing how to identify and report harassment is essential for protecting yourself and maintaining a safe work environment. This guide outlines the key steps employees should take if they encounter harassment at work.
What Is Workplace Harassment?
Workplace harassment occurs when unwanted behavior, conduct, or communication creates a hostile or intimidating environment. It can take many forms, including verbal, physical, or visual acts. Some of the most common examples include:
- Sexual harassment: Unwanted advances, inappropriate comments, or physical contact.
- Discrimination-based harassment: Offensive remarks or actions based on race, gender, age, disability, religion, or other protected characteristics.
- Bullying or intimidation: Repeated, hostile behaviors intended to undermine or belittle an employee.
How to Recognize Harassment
Not all unpleasant workplace interactions constitute harassment. Key indicators include:
- A pattern of behavior: Harassment often involves repeated incidents rather than a single event.
- Impact on your work: The behavior negatively affects your ability to perform your job or creates a hostile work environment.
- Violation of laws or policies: The conduct violates state or federal laws or company policies.
Steps to Take When Harassment Happens
If you believe you are experiencing workplace harassment, follow these steps to address the issue effectively.
1. Document the Harassment
Record details of each incident as soon as possible. Include:
- Dates, times, and locations.
- Names of individuals involved and witnesses, if any.
- Descriptions of what happened.
- Copies of any related messages, emails, or other evidence.
2. Review Workplace Policies
Most companies have policies outlining how to handle harassment. Review your employee handbook or contact human resources (HR) to understand the reporting procedures.
3. Report the Harassment
Once you have documentation, notify the appropriate individual or department. This may include:
- Your direct supervisor (unless they are the harasser).
- Human resources personnel.
- A designated harassment officer, if applicable.
4. File a Complaint With a State or Federal Agency
If your employer fails to address the situation or retaliates against you, you can file a complaint with agencies such as:
- California Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH): Handles workplace discrimination and harassment complaints.
- Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC): Enforces federal workplace harassment laws.
Both agencies can investigate your claim and take appropriate action against your employer.
5. Seek Legal Advice
A qualified employment attorney can guide you through the process, ensuring your rights are protected. They can help you:
- Understand applicable laws.
- File complaints with government agencies.
- Pursue legal action if necessary.
Protecting Your Rights After Reporting Harassment
It is illegal for employers to retaliate against employees who report harassment. Retaliation can include actions like:
- Demotion or termination.
- Reduced hours or unfavorable assignments.
- Negative performance reviews or hostile behavior.
If you experience retaliation, document it and notify your attorney or the relevant agency immediately.
Why Reporting Harassment Matters
Reporting harassment not only protects your rights but can also prevent further harm to yourself and others. By speaking up, you contribute to creating a safer and more respectful workplace for all employees.
How PLBH Can Help
If you’ve experienced workplace harassment, PLBH is here to support you. Our experienced employment law attorneys are dedicated to helping employees in Southern California seek justice. Call us at (800) 435-7542 to schedule a consultation and take the first step toward a resolution.