What to Do If You're Being Harassed at Work

 

If your employer has fostered a hostile work environment—or your colleagues have, but your employer has refused to do anything about it—it’s natural to feel hopeless. It’s important to remember, however, that you have a number of protections under labor laws. To assert your rights, start by taking the following steps:

 

3 Steps to Take If You’re Being Harassed at Work

 

1. Record Everything

Document every single instance of harassment. If you’re harassed via email or text message, save all such correspondence. If you’re harassed in person, write down exactly what transpired as soon as possible. Make sure to note the date and time, as well as the names of any eyewitnesses. If the offense occurred in front of surveillance cameras, ask the security team for a copy of that day’s footage, as well.

 

2. Follow All Mandated Reporting Procedures

Most workplaces have anti-harassment policies, which include detailed steps for victims to take when they’re ready to report the offensive altercations.

Review your employer’s website and company handbook. If you don’t see any such policies, ask Human Resources if there are reporting procedures in place. If there are, follow them. If there aren’t, ask your supervisor—or another superior, if your supervisor is the one harassing you—how best to proceed.

 

3. Seek Legal Counsel

Although labor law prohibits discrimination, sexual harassment, hostile work environments, and “quid pro quo” expectations, the burden of proof ultimately lies on the person who is being harassed. As such, it’s wise to turn to a resourceful attorney. An experienced lawyer will depose eyewitnesses, obtain any available security footage, file all necessary reporting documents, and protect you from retaliation, including preventing loss of work or pay 

 

If you’re being harassed at work, turn to the strategic team at Achille Law, P.C..  They offer representation in personal injury, workers  compensation , social security disability, unemployment, bankruptcies, estate planning, and  other types of cases. Call (814) 849-6701 or visit them online at www.palaw.org to schedule a free initial consultation or learn more about their services.

John Achille, Achille Law, P.C. 379 Main Street Brookville, PA 15825