A federal court in Atlanta has ruled that gender specific vulgarity can be construed to contribute to a hostile work environment even if not directed at a specific individual.    This means that the definition of “hostile work environment” is now broader and much more general.  Its decisions like these that although ethically correct, make it very difficult to know how to instruct your employees as to appropriate behavior.

As an employer it’s important to establish strict guidelines as to what is and is not acceptable language, reference and innuendo.  We recommend making this a specific part of your employee handbook.  This might seem like overkill but in the long run these boundaries can create a happier and more productive work environment.

Additionally, it’s not enough just to have Workers’ Comp. Coverage to protect your workers and your company.  Your complete insurance program should include an Employment Related Practices policy in order to ensure that all of your risks have been insured.  The good news is that EPL coverage is not difficult to obtain and is not usually very expensive.

For more information about workplace risk management and the associated insurance coverages contact SteelBridge Insurance Services .   For more information on this article please call us at 800-900-1068.