by S. Brandon Dimando & Michael Barnes
What can I do as an employer to prevent sexual harassment and protect against sexual harassment claims?
Despite widespread publicity and recognition of sexual harassment, most businesses have not taken effective steps to address it. Many employers are seriously unprepared to protect both their interests and those of their employees.
Given the history of sizeable jury verdicts in sexual harassment cases, this lack of employer preparation seems unwarranted if not financially irresponsible.
The courts and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (“EEOC”) have consistently held that companies must take affirmative and effective steps to prevent sexual harassment and, failing to prevent it, to intercede immediately. Employers are liable when their supervisors create a hostile environment.
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