Workplace harassment is all over the news. Many allegations involve high-profile individuals creating a workplace culture that subjects employees to harassment with little or no consequence.
RELATED: Read 6 Behaviors that Could Spawn a Sexual Harassment Lawsuit?
Businesses must examine their efforts to identify and address such behavior before it's allowed to persist, thus creating a toxic and unsafe work environment and potentially expensive claims against the business. Further, businesses must examine the legality of any effort made to contractually forbid employees who feel harassed from pursuing certain courses of action in response.
Harassment constitutes many different behaviors and may include claims of sexual advances, retaliation, age/gender discrimination, pay inequality and many others.
RELATED: Read Employment Practices Liability Coverage
Businesses seeking to create a plan of action to address allegations should seek the advice of legal counsel. In addition, businesses should consider purchasing insurance specifically designed to cover many types of employment-related claims of damages filed against the business. These can protect your company from debilitating legal and settlement costs.
SPARKS' TIP
If you have any changes to your business, you should verify with your agent you have the appropriate and adequate coverages. Contact your agent for a policy review at any time to potentially avoid any coverage gaps.
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