Valentines Day Harassment Claims

Posted by BAS - 14 February, 2013

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On this February 14, employers should be mindful of employee behavior at work. The workplace is generally not an appropriate place for Valentines Day celebrations, as they could potentially lead to sexual harassment claims.

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature. Both the victim and the harasser can be either a woman or a man, and the victim and harasser can be the same sex. The harasser can be the victim's supervisor, a supervisor in another area, a co-worker, or someone who is not an employee of the employer, such as a client or customer.

Even well-meaning Valentines Day cards from one co-worker to another can be interpreted as an unwelcome sexual advance. A card or email that might seem funny to one employee might offend another employee.

Follow these suggested workplace rules to avoid sexual harassment Valentines Day claims:

1. Implement a sexual harassment policy. Sexual harassment should not be tolerated in any circumstance.

2. Remind all managers and employees of the Company's policy on sexual harassment.

3. Take action on complaints. When a matter is reported to management, fully and completely investigate the claim. Appropriate action should be taken immediately. Even off-handed comments should be addressed.

Employers may wish to avoid sanctioning Valentines Day related celebrations, cards exchanges or other activities that implicate any sort of inappropriate message of a sexual nature.

Topics: HR & Benefits Compliance


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