By Hibu Websites
•
23 May, 2022
Employees facing hostile working conditions such as sexual harassment, discrimination, or other illegal conduct can take steps to protect themselves and their rights. Here are five tips. 1. Document incidents and events. Keep a written journal. When events occur that are hostile, offensive or discriminatory, make a note to record the date, time and circumstances. Keep a record of offensive comments and situations and who you have talked to about it. You can record it in a spiral notebook, a calendar, or notes. Consider maintaining it in written form so you own it. An electronic method is fine, so long as you have ownership of the device. 2. Make sure your documentation remains accessible if the employment ends. In other words, do not leave it at the office or on a work computer or device. 3. Obtain a copy of the company’s human resources policies and read the section on reporting complaints. Employees are required to follow reasonable policies for reporting complaints of harassment and discrimination for investigation and resolution. Employees are required to report discriminatory harassment by co-workers and an be important harassment by supervisors. If a complaint is made, keep a copy. 4. Request a copy of your personnel record. In Minnesota, employees have the right to review their personnel record every six months while employed. If separated from employment, employees have the right to request a copy from the employer at no charge. The request must be in writing. Employers must comply with a written request no later than seven working days after receipt of the request if the personnel record is located in this state, or no later than 14 working days after receipt of the request if the personnel record is located outside this state. 5. Consider recording conversations. Generally, conversations can be recorded so long as one party to the conversation consents. While not practical for all situations, recordings can dispel later disputes about what was said.
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