How to Document and Report Workplace Harassment Effectively

No one should be forced to deal with harassment in the workplace. Harassment is prohibited as a form of sex-based discrimination under Pennsylvania and federal law, and employers have a legal obligation to ensure that their workplaces are safe spaces where their employees can do their jobs without fear of mistreatment. Yet, workplace harassment is alarmingly common, and many employees in Pennsylvania find themselves needing to take legal action.

If you need to take legal action, what should you do? Here is an overview of how to document and report workplace harassment effectively:

Documenting Workplace Harassment

Effectively documenting workplace harassment involves preserving as much evidence as possible. If you have emails or text messages, if you have received offensive photos or videos, or if you have any other form of documentation, you should keep these safe so that you can use them to prove what you have endured.

You should also take detailed notes. Spend some time writing down everything you can remember about the harassment you have experienced to date; and, if the harassment is ongoing (i.e., if you are being subjected to a hostile work environment), continue taking notes on an ongoing basis. If you receive additional communications or documentation, you should keep these as well.

Reporting Workplace Harassment to Your Employer

When reporting workplace harassment to your employer, you should generally follow your employer’s prescribed policies and procedures (if any exist). If your employer does not have prescribed policies and procedures for reporting workplace harassment, you will most likely want to file a report with your company’s human resources (HR) department. Your report should be as accurate and detailed as possible, and you should be careful to avoid making any overstatements or assumptions. Before you file your report, make a copy (or take a photo with your phone) for your records.

Reporting Workplace Harassment to the EEOC or PHRC

In many cases, victims of workplace harassment will need to take formal legal action to protect themselves—and to seek the financial compensation they deserve. Depending on the circumstances, this may involve reporting the harassment to either the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the Pennsylvania Human Relations Commission (PHRC).

The EEOC handles workplace harassment claims under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, while the PHRC handles claims under the Pennsylvania Human Relations Act. If legal action is warranted in your case, an experienced Philadelphia employment lawyer will be able to advise you regarding where to file your claim; and, if desired, your lawyer can handle your claim with the EEOC or PHRC on your behalf.

Discuss Your Workplace Harassment Claim with a Philadelphia Employment Lawyer for Free

Are you a victim of workplace harassment in Pennsylvania? If so, you may need to take action promptly to protect your legal rights. To discuss your situation with an experienced Philadelphia employment lawyer in confidence as soon as possible, call us at 267-273-1054 or tell us how we can reach you online today.