The workplace is one of the most frequent locations in which sexual harassment occurs. Other than your home, it is the place that you spend the majority of your time. You are entitled to feel safe at your job. Unfortunately, sexual harassment remains a contentious issue. To curb future sexual harassment, California requires all employers to train employees on sexual harassment, its causes, prevention, and proper procedures should it occur.
Employers must provide to their employees a copy of the Department of Fair Employment and Housing (“DFEH”) pamphlet “Sexual Harassment is Forbidden by Law” or an equivalent document.
The employer must make all employees aware of the seriousness of any sexual harassment violations. Employees must understand that it could result in penalties or even dismissal. Moreover, employees must know that they cannot pressure victims of sexual harassment to refrain from reporting the incident.
Employers must train supervisory personnel to understand their obligations, including the proper procedure to investigate and hear harassment claims. These allegations cannot be ignored or dismissed. Employers must diligently investigate.
Were you the victim of harassment in the workplace? You may want to sit down with a lawyer and review your rights. California provides a variety of options to ensure that your employer undertakes the necessary steps to prevent future sexual harassment and for just compensation. A lawyer can review the various options, from regulatory petitions to filing a lawsuit. Sexual harassment claims are complicated; a lawyer can help you through the process. You may want to contact an attorney to help you with your case.