Skip to content
Home » HR Industry Articles » Preventing Workplace Bullying and Harassment

Preventing Workplace Bullying and Harassment

    Workplace bullying and harassment are significant issues that can lead to costly litigation and damage a company’s reputation. Employers have a legal and ethical responsibility to create a safe and respectful work environment. In this article, we will explore specific steps that employers should take to prevent workplace bullying and harassment litigation.

    Understanding Workplace Bullying and Harassment

    Workplace bullying and harassment can take many forms, including verbal abuse, offensive behavior, discrimination, and sexual harassment. To prevent litigation, employers must understand the legal definitions and implications of these behaviors.

    Legal Definitions

    1. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act: Title VII prohibits workplace discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin. Employers should familiarize themselves with the law’s provisions to prevent discriminatory practices.
    2. Sexual Harassment: The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) provides guidance on defining and preventing sexual harassment in the workplace. It’s crucial to be well-versed in these guidelines.
    3. Hostile Work Environment: The legal concept of a hostile work environment requires employers to maintain a workplace where employees do not face unwelcome behavior, which is severe or pervasive enough to create a hostile or abusive atmosphere.

    Creating a Bullying and Harassment Policy

    An effective way to prevent bullying and harassment litigation is to establish a clear and comprehensive policy.

    Key Components of the Policy

    1. Definition of Unacceptable Behavior: Define what constitutes workplace bullying, harassment, and discrimination.
    2. Reporting Mechanism: Establish a clear procedure for employees to report incidents confidentially.
    3. Investigation Process: Outline how investigations will be conducted and by whom, ensuring impartiality and fairness.
    4. Consequences: Specify the consequences for individuals found responsible for bullying or harassment, including disciplinary actions.
    5. Prevention Training: Implement mandatory training to educate employees on the policy and acceptable behavior.
    6. Anti-Retaliation Provisions: Ensure that employees who report incidents are protected from retaliation.

    Training and Awareness

    Raising awareness and providing training to employees is crucial for preventing bullying and harassment litigation.

    Training Programs

    1. EEOC Guidelines: Use the EEOC’s resources to develop effective training programs tailored to your workplace.
    2. Regular Updates: Keep training up to date with the latest legal developments and trends in workplace harassment.
    3. Management Training: Train supervisors and managers on recognizing and addressing harassment and bullying.

    Raising Awareness

    1. Clear Communication: Regularly communicate the company’s commitment to a harassment-free workplace through emails, newsletters, and meetings.
    2. Reporting Channels: Ensure employees know how to report incidents and that they feel safe doing so.
    3. Diversity and Inclusion: Promote diversity and inclusion to create a culture of respect and acceptance.

    Establishing a Robust Reporting System

    A strong reporting system is the backbone of preventing workplace harassment and bullying litigation.

    Anonymous Reporting

    1. Anonymous Hotlines: Provide a confidential hotline for employees to report incidents without fear of retaliation.
    2. Online Platforms: Implement online platforms for reporting, allowing employees to submit complaints securely.

    Investigative Protocol

    1. Independent Investigators: Ensure that investigations are conducted by impartial, trained professionals.
    2. Timely Response: Promptly respond to all complaints and initiate investigations promptly.

    Document and Record Keeping

    Maintaining proper documentation and records is essential for defending against litigation.

    What to Document

    1. Incident Reports: Keep detailed records of all reported incidents, investigations, and actions taken.
    2. Training Records: Maintain records of all employees’ completion of harassment prevention training.
    3. Policies and Procedures: Store all relevant policies, procedures, and communication materials.

    Retention Period

    1. Compliance with Laws: Comply with state and federal laws regarding record retention, which may vary.
    2. Legal Consultation: Consult legal experts to determine the required retention periods for your specific situation.

    Anti-Retaliation Measures

    To prevent workplace bullying and harassment litigation, employers must protect employees who report incidents from retaliation.

    Developing Anti-Retaliation Policies

    1. Clear Policies: Create policies that explicitly prohibit retaliation against employees who report bullying or harassment.
    2. Whistleblower Protections: Ensure compliance with federal and state whistleblower protection laws.

    Monitoring for Retaliation

    1. Regular Audits: Conduct regular audits and assessments to identify and prevent potential retaliation.
    2. Anonymous Reporting: Encourage employees to report any suspected retaliation through anonymous channels.

    Enforcement and Accountability

    Enforcing policies and holding individuals accountable are essential components of preventing workplace bullying and harassment litigation.

    Consistent Enforcement

    1. Zero Tolerance: Enforce a zero-tolerance policy regarding harassment and bullying.
    2. Uniform Consequences: Apply consequences consistently for all offenders, regardless of their position in the organization.

    Accountability

    1. Supervisor Accountability: Hold supervisors and managers accountable for their role in preventing harassment within their teams.
    2. Review and Improve: Regularly review and improve policies and procedures based on incident data and employee feedback.

    Legal Consultation

    To remain proactive in preventing workplace bullying and harassment litigation, it’s essential to consult legal experts.

    Legal Counsel

    1. In-House or External Counsel: Employ or consult with legal experts who specialize in employment law to ensure compliance.
    2. Periodic Review: Schedule periodic legal reviews to stay updated on evolving laws and regulations.

    Conclusion

    Preventing workplace bullying and harassment litigation is not just about compliance with the law; it’s about fostering a safe, inclusive, and respectful work environment. By understanding the legal definitions, implementing strong policies and procedures, providing comprehensive training, and enforcing accountability, employers can mitigate the risk of litigation and promote a healthier workplace for all. Remember, it’s an ongoing process that requires commitment and vigilance.

    Note: Information found on this site is information only and is not intended to be used as legal advice. Please consult your attorney or counsel for specific legal information.