Definition
A hostile work environment exists when unwelcome sexual conduct unreasonably interferes with an individual's job performance or creates a hostile, intimidating, or offensive work environment.
Explanation
A hostile work environment can be created by managers, supervisors, coworkers, customers, or even clients. Examples of a hostile work environment might include:
Requests for sexual favors
Offensive language
Offensive and / or vulgar graffiti
Sexual inquiries and vulgarities
Physical or demeaning conduct of a sexual nature
Sexually offensive, explicit or sexist signs, cartoons, calendars, literature or photographs displayed in open view
An employer has the responsibility to investigate allegations of a hostile work environment when:
There has been a complaint to a manager
A manager failed to establish a policy against sexual harassment
The harassment is well known among employees
Liability for employers in instances of a hostile work environment exists when:
The employer knew, or should have known, about the harassment
The employer failed to take appropriate corrective action
A hostile work environment can exist even if the harassment does not result in tangible or economic job consequences. For example, the person being harassed did not lose pay or the opportunity for a promotion.