The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) handled 76,418 charges of workplace discrimination nationwide in its previous fiscal year. As a business owner with employees, employment discrimination is an issue you must watch for. Here are the answers to a few common questions to help you avoid this issue in your office.

FAQ About Workplace Discrimination

What are examples of employment discrimination?

This can occur at all stages of the employment process, such as advertising that excludes certain classes of individuals or asking about age, sexual orientation, or pregnancy during interviews. Denying equal pay for equal work or not promoting employees due to their classification are violations of federal law.

What classifications of workers are protected from employment discrimination?

Federal and state laws protect employees from discrimination based on several factors, such as race, gender, religion, age, and disability. Other protected categories include sexual orientation, pregnancy, and national origin.

Do I have to treat employees with disabilities differently than other workers?

Generally, you must make reasonable accommodation for employees with disabilities if they request it. Examples include providing ramps and adjustable desks for employees in wheelchairs or closed-captioning for hearing-impaired workers.

Can I fire workers because they complain about discriminatory work conditions or employment decisions?

This action is considered wrongful termination and a retaliatory firing of an employee exercising their legal rights. You can be sued if you reprimand, demote, or dock pay of a worker who files a complaint with the EEOC or the local health department.

Whether you need the advice to avoid discriminatory errors or representation to answer allegations of workplace discrimination, the Charles H. Brower Law Corporation on Oahu, HI, is ready to help. These skilled professionals have over 40 years of experience, and they’ll protect you and your business from costly allegations and wrongful termination litigation. Visit their website to learn more about how they can help, or call (808) 526-2688 to schedule a consultation.