Every person has the right to go to work without being harassed. Unfortunately, despite the provisions included under employment law to help prevent this from happening, it’s still a common occurrence. As such, it’s essential for business owners and managers to recognize when it’s happening, so they can take the appropriate steps to stop it and keep it from taking place again in the future. The attorneys at Zangari Cohn Cuthbertson Duhl & Grello P.C. provide employers in New Haven, CT, with sound advice whenever workplace issues arise. Below, they go over a few essential aspects of harassment.

Types of Harassment 

Some of the most common types of harassment are sexual, physical, discriminatory, and psychological. Sexual harassment may include inappropriate touching, making sexual jokes, and sharing inappropriate photos through email. Physical harassment often involves physical attacks, making direct threats, and destroying property. Discriminatory harassment may include racial slurs, displaying material that’s degrading to women, and isolation because of age. Psychological harassment may involve belittling a person’s ideas, spreading rumors about an individual, and opposing everything a person says.  

Consequences of Not Preventing Harassment 

Any type of workplace harassment is illegal, as this kind of behavior is regulated by employment law. As such, employers have a legal duty to respond to any complaints of harassment they may receive from an employee. Ignoring a complaint, failing to conduct a thorough investigation, laughing at the situation, or retaliating against the victim can result in a lawsuit intended to hold the business owner liable for damages. When a business owner is found guilty of not properly handling a harassment complaint, they may be required to financially compensate a victim.  

How to Avoid Harassment in the Workplace 

There are many ways employers can prevent harassment in the workplace. Every business should have clear policies that are written out stating that any violations will not be tolerated. Policies should explain how to file a claim, how an investigation will be conducted, and which disciplinary actions will be taken. Holding ongoing training for employees and managers is also effective. This will ensure everyone fully understands what constitutes harassment and what the repercussions will be for violating company policies. 

If you own a business and don’t know how to deal with claims of harassment, or you need representation in a lawsuit, turn to the employment law attorneys at Zangari Cohn Cuthbertson Duhl & Grello P.C. in New Haven, CT. With over 70 years of experience, they have the insight and expertise needed to ensure your business continues to thrive. Give them a call at (203) 789-0001 to schedule an initial consultation, and visit their website to learn more about what they do.