What Is a Hostile Work Environment?

Full Video Transcript

Many people think that in order to be sexually harassed, your boss or coworker must have physically touched you or tried to do so. However, sexual harassment can take other forms as well. If your employer or your coworkers create an environment that is so offensive it affects your ability to work, you may have what is called a hostile environment claim, which is also prohibited by federal and state laws. A hostile environment claim can take many forms. Examples include open displays of pornographic images in the work area, sexually explicit emails sent by your supervisor, or other inappropriate activities affecting your workplace. If any of this applies to you, ask the person responsible to stop the behavior, and if that doesn’t work, complain to your supervisor. For more information, contact an attorney who has experience with sexual harassment claims. Your rights in the workplace are important and should be protected.