Expert Construction Worker Harassment Lawyers Serving Folsom, CA

Whether you’re a construction worker or a building contractor, facing sexual harassment or discrimination at work can be deeply distressing. Such incidents can occur when dealing with individual homeowners or small business owners, putting you in uncomfortable and potentially dangerous situations. Harassment can come from anyone, including your employer, a construction site manager, a coworker, a contractor, or even a vendor. Navigating the complex landscape of sexual harassment law in California can be overwhelming. To effectively address these challenges, it’s wise to seek the expertise of a Folsom construction worker harassment attorney.

Sexual Harassment In Construction

In the expansive landscape of the United States construction industry, valued at approximately $1.8 trillion in 2022, Southern California is a key hub and is home to hundreds of thousands of construction workers. This thriving environment ensures high demand for both construction workers and contractors, whether in the bustling world of big city commercial construction or the quieter rural and suburban areas. Contractors may work independently or be part of larger construction firms. However, amid this growth and opportunity, a serious issue persists: on-the-job sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment in the workplace includes unwelcome or inappropriate sexual advances or behaviors, encompassing not just physical acts but also verbal abuse and sexual touching. In the construction industry, both contractors and construction workers face the risk of such harassment. Whether working alone in someone’s home or within a larger company, the potential for experiencing sexual harassment is a stark reality. In these challenging situations, the expertise of a Folsom construction worker harassment attorney becomes invaluable.

In the construction sector, sexual harassment typically falls into two categories: quid pro quo and hostile work environment. Quid pro quo involves making sexual requests in exchange for job-related favors or promises, often leading victims to feel coerced into compliance out of fear of losing their job or facing retaliation. Conversely, a hostile work environment is characterized by pervasive sexually offensive behaviors that make the workplace abusive and unproductive. Even those not directly targeted can file a sexual harassment claim with a Folsom construction worker harassment attorney if they work in such an environment.

This widespread issue affects a broad spectrum of individuals in the construction industry. Female employees are statistically at a higher risk of sexual harassment, assault, abuse, and rape compared to their male counterparts. However, male contractors can also be victims of sexual harassment and assault. Perpetrators can range from managers and supervisors to lower-ranking workers and clients.

Examples Of Harassment In The Construction Industry

Sexual harassment in the construction industry can take many forms, affecting not only women but also individuals from diverse backgrounds, including people of color, Indigenous communities, and members of the LGBTQ+ community. Examples of sexual harassment in construction include:

An executive at a construction company making inappropriate advances and demoting an assistant who refuses a date.
Construction workers feeling compelled to tolerate the inappropriate advances and flirtations of an older boss.
A homeowner making inappropriate sexual jokes or teasing a construction worker during a home renovation project.
Coworkers engaging in bullying by sending explicit content or using offensive language.
A vendor offering a contractor price discounts in exchange for a date or sexual favors.

In some cases, sexual harassment in construction may escalate to sexual assault, abuse, or even rape, occurring during construction jobs or in work-related settings such as meetings and work trips.

The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission

Be aware that workplace conduct and practices in the construction industry are under increased scrutiny from government authorities, making risk management more critical than ever. The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) is closely monitoring these developments, and inadequate preparation can result in significant financial liabilities related to employee interactions. It is essential to immediately review your employment policies and procedures and thoughtfully evaluate your training methods.

In May 2022, the EEOC convened a Commission hearing specifically addressing discrimination and harassment in the construction sector. This hearing aimed to identify and address longstanding imbalances in an industry that the EEOC believes has historically been overlooked in terms of equity and fairness.

The EEOC is committed to holding the construction industry to higher standards. Recent legal actions demonstrate this commitment, as the EEOC is actively pursuing lawsuits nationwide to address behaviors it believes the industry must rectify. With the expertise of skilled Folsom construction worker harassment lawyers, you can navigate these legal challenges effectively.

Addressing Construction Worker Sexual Harassment In Folsom, CA

Construction companies can proactively combat sexual harassment by prioritizing comprehensive training programs focused on harassment and discrimination. Bystander intervention training, for instance, equips employees to support coworkers when they witness harassment. Modern training initiatives often involve role-playing scenarios, helping workers empathize with those facing harassment and fostering a workplace culture that protects employees. However, management must also establish clear guidelines and set an exemplary tone.

Implementing a comprehensive employee policy is the most effective approach for addressing sexual harassment in construction companies. This policy should clearly outline rules against sexual harassment and unfair discrimination, along with potential disciplinary measures for offenders. Additionally, there must be a clear method for victims to report instances of harassment, whether they are personally affected or witnessing it happen to a colleague. Remember, you don’t have to endure it alone. Our Folsom construction worker harassment attorney is here to protect your rights.

Enforcement of these policies is equally vital; their mere existence is not enough. Failure to enforce them can lead to legal action, especially if the victim feels the perpetrator received a lenient punishment. Conversely, these policies can help retain valuable employees when infractions are minor. The key is for the company to consistently take the appropriate and equitable action when confronted with reports of sexual harassment.

Protecting Yourself From Harassment On The Job Site

If you are experiencing any form of sexual harassment, discrimination, or assault in the California construction industry, it is crucial to take prompt action to protect yourself and report the harasser. State and federal laws are in place to safeguard individuals from sexual harassment. To address the issue effectively, consider the following steps:

Initiate a Conversation: Speak with the perpetrator, as they may be unaware of the impact of their actions.
Document Incidents: Meticulously record every incident, noting event details and individuals involved.
Report the Harassment: Inform your employer or construction site manager, as established protocols should be in place for handling such complaints.
File a Formal Complaint: Consider filing a complaint with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) or the California Department of Fair Employment & Housing (DFEH), which can investigate your claim and take remedial action.

Taking these steps ensures that you are actively protecting your rights and contributing to a safer work environment.

Contact Our Folsom Construction Worker Harassment Attorney Today

If you are confronting sexual harassment in the construction field, whether as a worker or building contractor, seeking counsel from a Folsom construction harassment lawyer is crucial. These legal professionals can guide you on the appropriate course of action to protect your rights and pursue justice and financial compensation if necessary. Consulting with our construction worker harassment lawyers is essential for navigating these challenging circumstances and ensuring a safer, more inclusive work environment. Let us help you fight back against harassment at work and secure the protection and justice you deserve.