If you have been in the work force for any time at all, the odds are good that you have been in some unpleasant situations created by coworkers or managers.  However, when can  that unpleasantness be considered to create a hostile workplace?  What are your remedies to combat a hostile work environment?

What is Considered a Hostile Workplace?

The concept of and remedies against a hostile workplace were created with the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and Title VII which provides employee defense against “unwelcome verbal or physical conduct” against those who are in a protected class.  The protected classes include harassment based on: race, gender, national origin, or disability.

There are two criteria for determining if the conduct applies:

1. If it is ongoing and pervasive enough to be considered to create a hostile work environment OR
2. If the harassment is done by a supervisor and if it could have an impact on the employee’s benefits or employment status.

Signs of a Hostile Workplace

Are inappropriate or derogatory comments made to you or about you on a repeated basis and your requests are ignored?  Keep in mind that you may find some coworkers’ comments offensive that do not fall in one of the protected classes.  Do coworkers or supervisors fail to keep appropriate physical boundaries and engage in inappropriate touching that makes you feel uncomfortable?

Do you believe that your supervisor has unfairly withheld promotions or raises and that it is based on your status in one of the protected classes?

While some supervisors have a managing style that would not win them the Citizen of the Year award, being a jerk does not necessarily qualify them as violating Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.  The harassment must be towards or about a protected class in order for Title VII to apply.

If you are in a hostile workplace, there are several remedies available to you.  First try changing the way you interact with your boss and coworkers.  Our free report, “How to Save Your Job” gives 7 successful strategies.  If the problem continues, it is important to know your legal rights.