In a landmark decision, a federal jury recently awarded $2.17 million against SkyWest Airlines for subjecting a female parts clerk to a sexually hostile work environment. The jury’s verdict — the largest ever obtained by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) in the Northern District of Texas — underscores the critical importance of maintaining a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.
The airline employee — Sarah Budd — endured crude sexual comments from multiple coworkers and at least one manager, including lude suggestions that she engage in prostitution and perform demeaning sex acts. According to the EEOC, additional disturbing jokes about women who report sexual assault were commonplace. Despite Budd’s reports to her supervisor and the employee relations department, SkyWest’s investigations were insufficient, leading to lackluster disciplinary actions and canceled training sessions intended to address the harassment.
This case doubles down on the severe consequences organizations face when they fail to address workplace harassment effectively. Beyond legal repercussions, such negligence can lead to reputational damage and a decline in employee morale.
How Lauth Investigations Can Assist
At Lauth Investigations, we specialize in helping organizations prevent and address issues like those experienced by SkyWest Airlines. Our services include:
Comprehensive Workplace Investigations: Lauth conducts thorough and impartial investigations into allegations of harassment and discrimination, ensuring that all claims are thoroughly examined and documented.
Policy Development and Review: Lauth’s experts help refine workplace policies that promote a respectful and inclusive environment, aligning with legal standards and best practices.
Training and Education Programs: Lauth offers tailored training sessions for employees and management to recognize, prevent, and respond appropriately to harassment and discrimination.
Monitoring and Compliance: Lauth also provides ongoing support to ensure that implemented policies are followed and that the workplace remains compliant with all relevant laws and regulations.
By partnering with Lauth Investigations, organizations can proactively address and prevent workplace harassment, fostering a safe and respectful environment for all employees.
For more information on how we can assist your organization, please contact us about our EEO Violation Investigations.
Aiming to raise team cohesiveness and morale, the holiday season sometimes offers cheerful business meetings. However, These incidents can result in employee misbehavior, exposing businesses to major legal and reputation hazards. According to a Society for Human Resource Management survey, 36% of companies have seen corporate security involving improper behavior and heavy drinking at holiday parties. Safe and successful holiday celebrations depend on strong business security practices being followed.
The Importance of Corporate Security for Holiday Events
Corporate security goes beyond providing physical protection to establish an environment where every staff member feels respected and safe. Joyous holiday celebrations may blur the boundaries between personal and professional behavior, but companies have to strike a balance between guaranteeing workplace decorum and creating a cheerful environment.
Key Risks of Holiday Events
Alcohol-Related Misconduct: Serving alcohol can skew judgment and raise the possibility of inappropriate actions. According to a poll, 57% of workers have seen coworkers drunk during corporate event planning.
Harassment and Discrimination: These issues can arise when employees disregard workplace policies, especially in informal settings.
Legal Liability: Since these are regarded as extensions of the workplace, employers could be liable for activities carried out during events sponsored by their companies.
Reputation Damage: Misconduct can compromise a corporation’s image, both inside and outside, influencing public opinion and employee trust.
Implementing Event Security Measures to Prevent Employee Misconduct
Employee behavior management during events can compromise safety, cause disruptions to business, and damage reputations. Reducing these dangers depends critically on strong event security policies. Businesses may build a safe workplace that discourages misbehavior, guarantees compliance, and advances professionalism by aggressively addressing possible weaknesses. These techniques build the basis for great events by protecting attendees and organizational integrity.
Establish Clear Policies and Communicate Them Effectively
Pre-event correspondence: Remind staff members that workplace professionalism must be upheld during the event. Reinforce behavioral standards in emails, posters, or quick meetings.
Code of Conduct: Share a code of conduct unique to holiday parties that outlines forbidden actions and penalties
Pre-event correspondence: Remind staff members that workplace professionalism must be upheld during the event. Reinforce behavioral standards in emails, posters, or quick meetings.
Code of Conduct: Share a code of conduct unique to holiday parties that outlines forbidden actions and penalties.
Alcohol Management Strategies
Limit Availability: Set a limit on the alcohol consumption per person or offer drink tickets.
Hire Professional Bartenders: Make sure bartenders are qualified to spot drunkenness and stop serving when called for.
Present Alternatives: Offer a range of non-alcoholic drinks and plenty of food to help to prevent excessive drinking.
Monitor Employee Behavior Discreetly
Assign Oversight Teams: Assign certain supervisors to oversee the event; make sure they have graceful handling of problems.
Anonymous Reporting: Through a dedicated hotline or mobile app, inspire staff members to report issues without thinking about reprisals.
Enhance Physical Security
Venue Selection: Select locations with appropriate safety precautions—security guards, emergency exits, and where first aid is present.
Access control: Limit event access to staff members and invited visitors to stop unwelcome guests from creating disturbance.
Planning Inclusive and Safe Corporate Holiday Parties
Successful holiday celebrations reflecting company values depend on inclusion and safety.
Design Inclusive Activities
Non-alcoholic celebrations: Plan games, honors ceremonies, or family-friendly events.
Cultural Sensitivity: Diversity in holiday customs will help to guarantee that every staff member feels involved.
Voluntary Participation
Workers should be motivated but not under obligation to attend holiday celebrations. This lessens possible unpleasantness for individuals with different values or personal obligations.
Managing Post-Event Follow-Up
Preventive efforts can inevitably lead to events, so quick resolution is crucial.
Record Events Thoroughly Gather Evidence
Gather Evidence: Record specifics, including eyewitness reports, to guarantee a fair investigation.
Maintain Confidentiality: Respect the private information of people engaged in inquiries.
Take Corrective Action
Disciplinary Measures: Discipline Apply suitable fines depending on corporate policies, ranging from warnings to termination.
Policy Changes: Take use of the incident to enhance the next event rules.
Support Affected Employees
Counseling Services: Offer access to employee assistance programs (EAPs) or third-party counselors.
Public Reassurance: Share actions taken to support a dedication to occupational safety.
Conclusion
Corporate holiday celebrations ought to be times for celebration and friendship rather than mishaps of behavior. Well-organized corporate security policies help companies establish a safe workplace in which staff members feel appreciated and valuable. Preventing problems and safeguarding the company’s reputation depends on good policies, clear communication of rules, and efficient treatment of misbehavior, including alcohol control.
Lauth’s workplace investigation services provide professional advice on prevention of employee misconduct, helping you guarantee your company presents safe and professional holiday festivities.
Partner with Lauth Investigations International for expert workplace investigation services and safeguard your workplace integrity. Contact us today!
Found yourself in a confrontation with a colleague in the workplace? How well did this incident settle with you, and what strategies did both parties use to solve the problem? These are the kinds of questions that immediately come to mind whenever workplace violence is mentioned. How best to approach such type of squabble in the place of work mitigates the loss of productive hours, and it is the responsibility of the human resource department to segment appropriate measures of abating disputes that would result in violence. As an HR director, understanding the psychology around workplace violence is not just a necessity but a mandate for safeguarding the workforce and cultivating a culture of safety. It is also a chance to appreciate that human beings are different; therefore, studying individual behavior would significantly help in dealing with the workforce, helping them where necessary. Join me as we discuss the intricacies of human behavior and prevention and intervention strategies.
The Landscape of Workplace Violence
Before we discuss the integrities of workplace violence, it is paramount to comprehend the situation of the matter and how it has been entrenched into the working environment. According to the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), workplace violence affects a considerable number of workers in the United States. These abuses span across different spectrums, including physical abuse, verbal abuse and harassment, and homicides. In the same vein, the effect is shown to affect all demographics, raising the question of whether the human resources professional are trained and equipped to deal with such hurdles.
Statistic further paints a sobering picture- that 17% of workplace deaths are as a result of violence. Most of the reported cases are from the healthcare, social assistance sector, retail and accounting sectors. This is because the sectors above involve high interaction with individuals, exposing the workers to different characters. Notably, workplace violence permeates all industries, underscoring the need to have proper measures to deal with the menace. As a start, an organization can embrace threat assessment done by Lauth to save both lives and money.
Understanding the Perpetrator
At the center of workplace violence lies personal psychology and environmental triggers. As opposed to the popular belief, perpetrators of workplace violence cannot be easily identified as outcasts. They are people within the workplace who may have succumbed to individual and professional pressures. Consider a case of an employee who has faced setbacks in the place of work, combined with personal stress. While the employees might contain themselves and not show any sign of stress, the outburst can disrupt the tranquility of the working environment. This highlights the interrelated nature of workplace violence. It is a product of psychological distress that should be addressed before causing problems at the place of work. Factors such as financial challenges, untreated mental issues, job dissatisfaction, and substance abuse can cause the problem, converting an ordinary person into a threat.
The Role of Intelligence Investigation
In organizations with eminent potential for violence, proactive measures are necessary. While it is true that human resource directors have less training in establishing the possibility of violence in their place of work, this cannot be left as it is. The changing dynamics of workplaces demand innovation and always staying ahead of threats. One of the approaches to avert violence is conducting an intelligence investigation, which is the arsenal of the HR director. This includes analyzing data from different sources, such as employees’ behavior, and external assessment, which enable the identification of threats before escalating into violence.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime study established that the role of intelligence investigation is to gather information and understand its relationship with other variables. Also, the study noted that intelligence investigation entails piecing up information and coming up with practical applications in the workplace to avert the dangers associated with violence. With this in mind, the importance of intelligence investigation cannot be overstated. Lauth’s threat assessment team will provide you with the crucial context you need to protect your employees.
Fostering a Culture of Prevention
The evolving nature of work must be addressed, and it is the HR director’s responsibility to cultivate a culture of prevention. How do we ensure that your workplace has the right culture of protection? It all starts with the most straightforward thing- communication. Supporting open communication motivates the employees to report any form of threat before it escalates into violence. A sustainable organization gives staff in the lowest rank the ability to report cases of threat without intimidation and guarantees them protection. Also, training employees on stress management and de-escalation strategies will ensure the safety of the workers. If you suspect your workers are suffering in silence, consider involving Lauth’s services, and we shall conduct a comprehensive background check to unearth what you don’t know.
Conclusion
As an HR director, ensure employees’ safety extends beyond policies and standards. Understanding the behavior of your employees is the starting point for designing appropriate interventions. Also, unraveling workplace violence and leveraging intelligence investigation tools would aid in navigating the challenges of risk. In the words of Benjamin Franklin, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.” Let us act on this wisdom and ensure that workplace violence ceases to become a statistic but something of the past.
Back in September, the landscape of California workplaces was impacted dramatically upon Governor Gavin Newsom signing Senate Bill 533, which requires that California employers now implement a detailed workplace violence prevention plan in compliance with their Cal/OHSA Injury Illness Prevention Plan. In addition to implementing a plan, employers must now ensure their workers have access to proper training on their plan and keep detailed records of any incidents of violence in the workplace. The law will take effect on July 1, 2024.
The Role of Third-Party Investigators:
With the advent of these violence prevention programs, there arises a critical need for thorough evaluations of current operations and workplaces. This is where third-party investigators come into play. These professionals bring a fresh and unbiased perspective to the table, allowing for a comprehensive analysis of existing security measures, policies, and potential risks.
Supplementing Evaluations with Private Investigators:
As California employers gear up to comply with the new regulations, the demand for third-party investigators is expected to soar. Companies will seek the expertise of these investigators to conduct detailed assessments, identify vulnerabilities, and recommend tailored strategies to enhance workplace safety
While third-party investigators offer a broad assessment of workplace violence prevention programs, some California employers are taking an extra step by supplementing these evaluations with private investigators. Private investigators bring a unique skill set that extends beyond traditional workplace assessments. Their ability to conduct discreet inquiries, uncover potential internal threats, and gather information discreetly can provide an added layer of security.
The Competitive Edge:
Employers who choose to enlist the services of private investigators in addition to third-party assessments may gain a competitive edge in safeguarding their workplaces. By adopting a proactive stance and addressing potential threats comprehensively, these businesses demonstrate a commitment to the well-being of their employees and the integrity of their operations.
Considerations for Employers:
California employers looking to stay ahead in the evolving landscape of workplace safety should consider the following:
Comprehensive Evaluations: Engage third-party investigators to conduct thorough evaluations of workplace violence prevention programs, focusing on identifying vulnerabilities and areas for improvement.
Supplement with Private Investigators: Consider supplementing these evaluations with private investigators to delve deeper into potential internal threats and gather actionable intelligence.
Proactive Security Measures: Implement recommendations from investigators promptly, adopting proactive security measures to create a robust and resilient workplace violence prevention program.
Employee Awareness and Training: Prioritize employee awareness and training programs to ensure that staff members are equipped to identify and respond to potential threats effectively.
As California forges ahead with its commitment to workplace safety through mandatory violence prevention programs, a burgeoning demand for third-party investigators becomes evident. Employers who recognize the value of supplementing these evaluations with private investigators not only enhance their security measures but also position themselves as leaders in fostering safe and secure work environments. In a landscape where workplace safety is paramount, proactive measures are the key to staying ahead and ensuring the well-being of employees.
The initiative to have the workplace evaluated for violence prevention and safety is not restricted to California, however. If you have need for a workplace violence investigation, call Lauth Investigations International today for a free quote on how we can get your crucial information for success in your business. We’ve helped businesses all over the United States protect their employees against both internal and external threats to their safety. We’re staffed by former military, law enforcement personnel, and have decades of combined experience to help provide comprehensive solutions to any workplace issue.
In recent years, there has been a troubling and undeniable trend – workplace violence is on the rise. Incidents of aggression, harassment, and even tragic acts of violence have become more frequent, posing a significant threat to the well-being of employees across various industries. In this challenging environment, the responsibility falls squarely on leadership to go above and beyond, implementing comprehensive strategies to safeguard their employees against both internal and external risks.
Internal Threats:
Workplace violence is not solely an external concern; internal factors also contribute significantly to the rise in incidents. Disputes among colleagues, unresolved conflicts, and unaddressed mental health issues can create a volatile mix. Leaders must prioritize fostering a culture of open communication and conflict resolution, providing employees with channels to express concerns without fear of reprisal. Investing in employee assistance programs (EAPs) and mental health resources can further support individuals facing personal challenges.
External Threats:
External threats, including acts of terrorism, theft, or even domestic violence spilling into the workplace, are on the rise. Employers must collaborate with law enforcement and security experts to conduct thorough risk assessments. Implementing access control measures, surveillance systems, and emergency response plans can help mitigate potential external threats. Additionally, providing training to employees on situational awareness and response procedures is crucial for building a resilient workforce.
The Role of Leadership Against Workplace Violence:
Leadership plays a pivotal role in creating a safe and secure work environment. Executives must take a proactive approach, demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of their teams. This involves not only addressing existing concerns but also anticipating potential threats and implementing preventative measures. Transparent communication about safety measures and emergency protocols fosters trust among employees and ensures they feel supported.
Investing in Technology:
Advancements in technology offer powerful tools to enhance workplace security. Leaders should consider investing in state-of-the-art security systems, including access control systems, surveillance cameras, and communication platforms that enable quick dissemination of critical information during emergencies. Additionally, artificial intelligence and data analytics can be leveraged to identify patterns of behavior that may indicate a potential threat.
Collaboration with Human Resources:
Leadership must work closely with the Human Resources (HR) department to create and enforce policies that promote a safe and respectful workplace. HR professionals can play a crucial role in identifying early signs of potential issues, offering mediation, and providing support to employees in need. Regular training sessions on conflict resolution, diversity, and inclusion can further contribute to a positive and secure work environment.
Moving Forward Against Workplace Violence:
As workplace violence continues to rise, leaders must recognize the urgency of the situation and take decisive action. Safeguarding employees requires a multifaceted approach that addresses both internal and external threats. By fostering a culture of open communication, investing in technology, collaborating with HR, and demonstrating a commitment to the well-being of their teams, leadership can create a workplace where employees feel safe, supported, and able to perform at their best without fear of violence or harassment. In these challenging times, going above and beyond to protect employees is not just a responsibility; it is an imperative for leaders aiming to build resilient, thriving organizations.
When appropriate, an investigation into the workplace itself may be appropriate. While the instinct to keep the investigation internal is understandable, a third-party investigator really is the best option for businesses that hope to get to the root of their repetitive issues. If you have need for a workplace violence investigation, call Lauth Investigations International today for a free quote on how we can get your crucial information for success in your business.
Within any great organization, leaders play a pivotal role in keeping workplace culture strong and employees engaged. Essentially, the health of your company’s leadership culture will correlate directly with the well-being of its wider corporate culture. This makes driving excellent leadership practices a powerful lever to pull when striving for enhanced success.
So, why are leaders so critical when it comes to steering workplace culture? Intrinsically armed not only with authority but also influence, your trusted leaders actively set the tone for the wider team in their attitudes, practices, behaviors, and values.
Ultimately, every tactical decision and interaction counts, and their status quo approach will likely be emulated down the chain of command. This raises the poignant question: is your leadership team setting a high bar for corporate culture, or is there room for improvement?
How Your Chosen Leaders Shape All Aspects of Company Culture
Thanks to a growing understanding of how engagement and productivity are manifested, modern leadership models place emphasis on constructively coaching and mentoring employees, ensuring effective communication and collaboration, setting clear expectations, and supporting work-life balance.
Acknowledgment of effort also plays a powerful part in energizing teams, with 69% of employees expressing that they would work harder if they felt their efforts were better recognized. However, the shaping of corporate culture begins long before the process of guiding developing employees begins.
It is vital to note how influential your leadership’s recruitment practices are for the long-standing status of workplace culture. Poor hiring choices can introduce negative influences within teams, eroding trust, productivity, and even safety at work. With roughly 55% of job applicants lying on their resumes or application forms, the importance of comprehensive employee background checks cannot be overlooked.
Addressing Workplace Culture and Setting New Leadership Standards
Serving as a challenge for business owners, CEOs, and entrepreneurs alike, the art of establishing high leadership standards is far easier from a blank slate than it is within a system already in motion. When a large or even small-to-medium-sized enterprise is already infused with rigid attitudes and detrimental practices, it can be tricky to trigger effective change.
However, with adequate oversight and understanding, the transformation of both leadership culture and workplace culture at large is entirely achievable. This process begins with developing a clear understanding of what’s happening now, which is best achieved with a corporate culture audit.
At Lauth Investigations International, our seasoned corporate investigators take immense pride in turning our understanding of the many factors that can make or break a business toward helping their leaders mitigate risk and forge cultural and procedural strength from within. Learn more about how we can help you correct detrimental practices and instill excellence throughout every layer of your organization with a corporate culture audit. Alternatively, connect with our corporate team today to discuss how we can best address your concerns and support your ambitions.
