Understanding sexual harassment in Pennsylvania

| Jan 2, 2019 | Sexual Harassment

If you are an employee in a Pennsylvania workplace, it is important to understand the ways in which you are protected by the law. Across the United States, workers are protected by the Civil Rights Act of 1964.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is in place to enforce laws against different types of harassment and discrimination that take place in the workplace.

If you have been subject to harassment as a Pennsylvania employee, it is likely that you will have many questions and concerns. The following are some of the most frequently asked questions regarding sexual harassment complaints.

What is the definition of sexual harassment in the workplace?

The EEOC has put forward an official definition of sexual harassment in the workplace. Any unwelcome conduct that is of a sexual nature in the working environment can be classed as sexual harassment. This could be through the means of an email or text, or it could be verbal or physical.

What are the different types of sexual harassment?

There are two main types of sexual harassment. The first, known as “Quid Pro Quo,” is one that arises out of an exploitation of power. For example, this might be a case of a manager asking for a sexual favor in return for a promotion.

The second is known as the creation of a hostile work environment. This can occur when any employee makes another feel uncomfortable due to comments or unwanted actions at work.

If you want to take action as a result of an inappropriate experience at work, it is important that you take the time to understand the law.