In the U.S., about 81% of women experience sexual harassment in the workplace at some point in their lives. About 37% of them report this information, while the rest do not.
The workplace should be a safe environment for its workers, where you can feel at ease while doing your job. But many California employees are unsure if they’ve experienced behavior at work that could be considered “sexual harassment,” according to the Los Angeles sexual harassment law firm. And would it be possible to pursue legal recovery?
Sexual harassment laws in California ensure that every worker has the right to a safe and respectful workplace.
Let’s find out which behavior constitutes sexual harassment in the workplace and how to report it if it happens to you.
Understanding Sexual Harassment – Definitions And Types
Understanding of sexual harassment and its manifestations is imperative. In general, unwanted touching, inappropriate verbal remarks, or certain behavior advertisers may term as ‘hostile ambiance’ may be cited as instances.
In verbal harassment, we have jokes or comments that are outright vulgar or suggestive; in physical harassment, it is unwanted touching. Visual harassment also exists, which can range from offensive posters to offensive prints. Knowing these kinds of affairs makes one understand at what moment there is some crossing of the line. Every employee should feel safe in the work environment and respected.
Having such definitions will enable the employee to confidently empower himself or herself to the act of resisting and remedying the harassment in question and creating a more congenial atmosphere for all.
Employee Rights Under California Law
In California, workers have strong rights that protect them from sexual abuse and make sure they have a safe place to work. You have the right to do your work without worrying about unwanted approaches, comments, or bad behavior.
The employer has a duty to establish procedures that will ensure prevention and remediation of any harassment so that at the end of the day, you are worth feeling safe and respected. Every time it occurs, you have the right to be heard and protected.
You could get help from several places so you don’t have to feel alone. You can protect yourself and help make your job a nice place for everyone to work if you know your rights.
Reporting Procedures for Sexual Harassment
If you experience any sort of harassment in the workplace, knowing how to report it is sometimes all a company needs to really confront the issue. Recognizing the challenges of sexual harassment as potential legal violations is the first step toward fair treatment in the workplace, says employment law attorney Daniel M. Waide. You should begin by familiarizing yourself with the company’s reporting procedures.
This would mean going through your supervisor and HR representative or some other person assigned to receive a complaint. Document all the information; record all dates, times, places, and details of all instances.
This will supply evidence and corroborate your claim. In case your complaint is not addressed by the company, you can file charges against it with the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (DFEH) or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). You deserve to be safe at your workplace.
You should not be implicated in cases of harassment reports but instead helped to regain your perception of compatibility and security. You can seek assistance from friends and family to pursue justice.
Employer Responsibilities and Preventive Measures
Employers play a major role in keeping forth a safe and respectful atmosphere at the workplace. It has to surely promulgate clear policies against sexual harassment, and a person must know what acts are condemned. Holding training on these matters is essential to enhance awareness and understanding among the staff and to promote a culture of respect.
Employers must give different avenues for reporting. These avenues can help you be honest to tell your problems. You can talk about your worries without fear. Open communication can build trust and make you feel supported.
Legal Consequences of Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
When actors insult women at work, they and even their bosses can be held responsible in a big way. Any witnessed or experienced act of harassment ought to be reported. Employers, by not respecting the obligation of punishing harassment immediately, run the risk of facing substantial fines and claims for damages.
You may also see the defendant prosecuted until civilly sued or may even be criminalized, depending on how serious the behavior of the defendant is deemed. Normally courts in California tend to favor a plaintiff and award damages for wage loss, emotional distress, or attorney’s fees.
But remember that you do have a right to work in an environment free from harassment. In your interest to stand up against harassment so that this is a safer and more pleasant environment for all.
