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Firms at risk through equality and diversity failures |
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Wednesday, 28 October 2009 14:08 |
 Workers are continuing to flout equality and diversity rules - risking legal hot water for themselves and their employers.
That’s the claim from HR consultancy Jaluch who say, despite radically evolving equal opportunities policies and an ever increasing level of discrimination claims, employees in a range of industries throughout the UK continue to cause offence through the comments they make and correspondence that they send.
Gina Leccacorvi, a Director at Jaluch, said: “We live in a litigious society. It is common for staff to keep note of offensive emails received and flippant comments made by colleagues. We hear from companies on an almost daily basis that are under threat of equality and diversity action.”
Employees may even make a discrimination claim for offensive comments or emails which weren’t directed at them personally – such as those overheard or circulated to workmates. And Jaluch claims the ‘tradition’ of aiming jokes and banter at certain groups or individuals such as apprentices is a big area for concern.
Gina added: “Companies need to consider all forms of office communication, and what is deemed as acceptable; whether it’s nicknames, jokes, text messages or emails. You might think if someone’s mocking their own sexuality, race or religion that it’s safe to join in – think again. What was once taken as humour can quickly become grounds for a grievance.
“Most of our clients find the greatest challenge is knowing where to draw the line with banter in the workplace whilst maintaining a positive and fun working environment.”
Jaluch provides practical equal opportunities training to businesses, helping individual employees understand their own responsibilities for protecting themselves and their employer from potential tribunal claims.
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