Employees in Mississauga Experiencing Common Workplace Harassment Seeking Counsel

When it comes to workplace harassment, employees often feel powerless. If they file a complaint against the harassing employee, they may face unfair treatment and be called a snitch or whistleblower. If they do nothing, the toxic work environment will persist and become even more toxic because the harasser will feel like there are no negative consequences for their poor and illegal behaviour.

As a result, employees who are harassed in the workplace often feel there is no right choice and no way out. Mr Gary Bennett is available to provide legal advice and guidance to employees experiencing workplace harassment in Mississauga, Ontario. Sometimes, employees need the support of a knowledgeable and experienced labour and employment lawyer in their corner to guide them through workplace harassment situations.

Common Forms of Workplace Harassment

Employers in Ontario have a legal obligation to take appropriate measures to maintain a safe working environment for their employees. Workplace harassment is illegal. Employers generally want to avoid the reputational harm that publicised harassment claims and lawsuits can bring. Obtaining legal advice from a labour and employment lawyer can help limit the damage to your company’s reputation when harassment claims are put forward. There are many forms that workplace harassment can take. Some forms of workplace harassment include the following:

• Physical Harassment is a very common form of workplace harassment. It is easy to recognise because it comes in the form of any type of physical violence against a person or their property. Threatening behaviour may also be considered physical harassment. In some extreme cases, physical harassment can include assault.
• Sexual Harassment occurs when an aggressor behaves in a sexual/ or romantic manner towards a victim who is uncomfortable with the advances and does not want attention of this nature from the aggressor. One specific form of sexual harassment that occurs in the workplace is when an aggressor who is in a position of power over a victim requests sex or sexual acts of the victim, using the threat of negative treatment in the workplace if the victim refuses to participate or reciprocate.
• Psychological Harassment is a form of harassment that leaves a negative psychological impact on the victim. Forms of psychological harassment take place when a victim is put down, demoralised, belittled or has to endure constant condescending remarks which are aimed specifically at the victim at both a professional and personal level.

These are just a few forms of workplace harassment, but there are many more, including cyberbullying, discriminatory harassment, and personal harassment. If you feel you are being subjected to any of these forms of harassment and your employer is not protecting you or resolving your complaints, you may need to seek professional counsel. Gary Bennett has worked on workplace harassment cases for more than 25 years and is well respected in the field. Give him a call today at (365) 800-2090 to set up an appointment.