Sexual Harassment is the worst reality of today’s workplace. No one wants to be harassed while working in any organization. If it happens to any employee, he/she have the right to stand against such behavior and many laws already have been enforced by the Canadian government to protect this right. Any sexual harassment case can be filed under Ontario’s Human Rights Code. Before filing a case, make sure to have a word with your Employment lawyer in Toronto.
What should be done if it happens to you as an employee?
You have a legal right work in a healthy and safe work environment. However, if you have been harassed or treated wrongly on your workplace for a long time, you have the right to resign the position and you can sue the employer for constructive dismissal.
Moreover, you must have some proof that shows you have been abused and sexually harassed at your workplace. Furthermore, the misbehavior must be enough to reveal that the terms of your employment relationship have been abandoned.
What if you are being sexually harassed by a colleague?
You may sexually be harassed by any colleague at your workplace. In such a case, your boss is bound to ensure that your workplace is safe where no harassment, abuse or mistreat is conducted by all of your co-workers. If the workplace atmosphere goes unpleasant, you must resign.
Besides, it is quite essential to inform your employer about your sexual harassment from co-workers, so that the employer takes some strict action against the guilty worker. If the employer is unaware of your unfair treatment, you cannot expect from the employer to be protective for you from sexual harassment.
What if you are punished for bringing the sexual harassment to your employer’s attention?
- This act of misconduct is considered as a reprisal, and it is prohibited under the Ontario Human Rights Code. So, you cannot be panelized for bringing the sexual harassment to your employer’s attention as it is your legal right.
- An unfair performance assessment, a demotion, or being terminated without cause are the common instances of behavior that may qualify as constructive dismissal after complaining about your sexual harassment.
Make sure to keep a record of unsuitable behavior or harassment at work, so that you can complain under Ontario’s Human Rights Code.