Watch out for these common instances of workplace harassment.
While it seems unnecessary to say, the workplace should be a place of professionalism and mutual respect. Sadly, this isn’t always the case. Sometimes the workplace can become a hostile atmosphere rife with gender, race, and other types of harassment. When you fail to create a safe environment for all staff members, not only do you make a bad name for your company, but you are also subject to very serious and expensive employment practices liability lawsuits. To ensure that issues aren’t escaping your notice, keep an eye out for these common forms of workplace harassment.
- Sexual and Gender Harassment
Sexual and gender harassment are two of the most common types of workplace abuse. In fact, about 50% of victims of workplace harassment report that the abuse was sexual in nature or related to their gender. Oftentimes, female employees are victims of sexual and/or gender harassment. Common instances of sexual harassment include inappropriate behavior, sexual advances, or unwanted physical content. Common instances of gender harassment include sexist behaviors and comments, derisive remarks, and engaging in demeaning conduct towards employees of a certain gender.
- Racial Harassment
Approximately one-fifth of workers who report workplace harassment claim that the abuse was based on their race, color, or national origin. Younger workers and ethnic minorities are more likely to experience racial harassment in the workplace. Common instances of racial harassment include derogatory jokes, racial slurs, personal insults, and expressions of disgust or intolerance towards a particular race or group of people.
- Harassment Based on Sexual Orientation
About 13% of all workplace harassment incidents involve negative behavior toward a person’s sexual orientation. LGTBQ employees are often targets of this type of workplace harassment. In fact, studies suggest that 43% of gay workers have experienced workplace abuse. Common instances of this type of harassment include derogatory language, homophobic slurs, and degrading remarks regarding someone’s real or perceived sexual orientation.
These are some of the common types of workplace harassment that business owners need to watch out for. Another way to protect your business from the negative impact of harassment claims is by having the right employment practices liability insurance. Need help with your business insurance? Then contact the experts at Phocus Insurance in Phoenix, Arizona today.
