What are the rules against sexual harassment used in workplaces in Laredo?

Laredo, TX – Workplaces are given guidance by the federal and local government regarding what kind of behavior causes sexual harassment and how it can be avoided. Many workplaces will utilize this information to create their own policies and monitor the behavior of their workers. When a violation of sexual harassment rules and policies happens, they also need to have a system in place to report problems and the employer should take appropriate action. 

Fraternization between employees

Some workplaces will choose to restrict or ban romantic relationships between workers. This is done to make harassment claims and issues with favoritism and conflicts of interest less likely. Workplaces have some discretion regarding what kinds of relationships they want to ban, but dating between supervisors and their subordinates is almost always prohibited.  

Management asking for favors in returns for promotions

One of the most common types of harassment is when a manager or supervisor requests sexual favors in return for promotions, raises, benefits, bonuses, or job retention. This is called quid pro quo harassment. It is illegal and all workplaces should ensure that this kind of behavior does not happen, or that it is quickly corrected if anyone in management is doing these sorts of things. 

Workplace content and conversations

Employees should be instructed to not have sexually explicit conversations while in the workplace or share any pornographic materials. When these items offend certain workers, they may be able to make a claim that there is a hostile work environment if such conduct is tolerated and becomes pervasive to the point that it affects the ability of certain people to work. 

Excessive pursuit of romantic relationships and stalking

If one employee is constantly asking another on dates and making unwanted advances, this may become sexual harassment or even lead to criminal stalking charges. An employer can be implicated in a lawsuit if they do not fix these issues and allow the victim to be harassed on multiple occasions. The victim should report such conduct as soon as possible and make the other person aware that their conduct will not be tolerated. 

Physical contact

This rule should be obvious, but any kind of physical contact between workers should be prohibited. It is possible that the person responsible for these actions may also be guilty of crimes such as assault. 

Help with employment law problems

Moore and Associates is an employment law firm that focuses on sexual harassment lawsuits and other labor issues in Laredo and the rest of Texas. People who have questions about possibly suing an employer can contact the firm to learn more. 

Firm contact info:

Moore & Associates

440 Louisiana Street, Suite 675, Houston, TX 77002

713-222-6775

www.mooreandassociates.net