The workplace, whether virtual or physical, can be a place of productive unity and harmony but, it can also be a hostile environment at the same time. And while certain behavioral issues can be addressed easily, a bigger and sometimes more silent issue is workplace discrimination. There are many laws in place to combat just about any type of discrimination in the workplace, however, many employers and employees may not be aware of the different types.
What are the different types of workplace discrimination?
While some of the most common types of discrimination stem from issues like age, sex, and race, there are many other types that the employees in your workplace may not know about.
Here is a list of the different types of discrimination according to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission:
- Age
- Sex
- Race
- Religion
- National origin
- Disability
- Equal pay
- Pregnancy
- Genetic information
- Harassment
- Sexual harassment
The Supreme Court Ruled in Favor of LGBTQ Community
A prime example of discrimination would be discriminating against employees of a different gender or sexual orientation. Fortunately, the Supreme Court recently ruled that Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination “because of sex” now includes gay and transgender employees. And while your employees might not be aware of such rights, it’s important to stay up to date on pertinent information on discrimination laws.
How Can You Avoid Discrimination in the Workplace?
While there is no guarantee that any workplace is not going to have some type of discrimination take place, there are measures that you can take to reduce the likelihood of it. One important step that your company can take is to ensure that your Human Resources Department outlines the types of discrimination, as well as the laws protecting against them, in the employee handbook.
In addition to detailing the laws and types of discrimination, having your company’s rules on discrimination, including a complaint form that your employees can fill out, can be a great way to raise awareness as well as a solution.
Extra training can help as well
Aside from including the types of discrimination in the employee handbook, extra training could help your employees as well. For example, there are lawyers and legal centers that could give presentations on discrimination and the associated laws to further inform your employees.
LTD Global can help when it comes to discrimination in the workplace
If you need assistance with creating an employee handbook that includes the types of discrimination and the associated laws, LTD Global is glad to assist you and your company. LTD Global has been assisting businesses with their employee handbook needs for years and we would be happy to assist you as well. Please contact LTD Global for more details. Also, if you have experienced discrimination in the workplace, you can contact the EEOC for more details on what to do.