Harassment by Non-employees is exactly what it sounds like. This is when employees, who are harassed by customers, vendors, temp workers, outside contractors, tec. still retain their rights to a harassment-free workplace. Liability
Employer may be liable if the harassment is known, has control or could have controlled the actions, and fails to take appropriate, corrective action.
NOTE: This is not limited to the employer’s premises. The employer is responsible for sexual harassment that occurs anywhere, such as when employees are visiting, calling upon or working at a customer’s or vendor’s premises.
As an employer, you cannot disregard the situation. The courts have upheld your responsibility in this area.
Remember: an employer must investigate and respond appropriately to the allegation even if it appears trivial or contrived.
It is also in the employer’s best interest to take some action whether the claim has substance or not. Document the incident, require additional training, etc.
Court Case: Read the rest of this entry »
