How to Respond to Verbal Abuse or Bullying at Work

Dealing with verbal abuse and bullying at work can be upsetting, especially when you have worked hard to get where you are now. Rude comments, public embarrassment, aggressive actions from coworkers or bosses, etc., are some common examples. It is important to know that California law provides rights and protections against harassment.

In fact, you may be happy to know that California’s laws protect workers more than federal laws do. Under the Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA), employers should ensure workplace rules to avoid harassment. The state requires employers to take steps to stop workplace bullying and maintain a safe environment.

Still, when someone gets bullied at their workplace, they do not know what to do. Sometimes, it is even confusing to know whether it is tough management or plain harassment. While human resources can help, they still work for the company. That is why it is recommended that you get help from an Ontario workplace lawyer for a fair investigation and assessment.

Understanding what workplace abuse is

The first step when dealing with workplace abuse is recognizing it. Under California law, abusive behavior is anything that is mean, offensive, or not related to work. Additionally, any reasonable person would find the same behavior hostile.

Abuse can take various forms in the workplace. This includes repeated insults, hurtful comments, yelling, harsh criticism, threats, or any behavior that affects how well you perform at your job.

Steps to take when you are being abused at your workplace

Document everything.

If you are facing workplace abuse, it is very important to keep records. It is going to serve as your best tool. You can write down details of every incident of abuse, such as the date, time, location, and the people who were present when it happened. Make sure also to save any emails, messages, or other communications that can prove the abuse.

If you are going to record any conversations between you and the other person, make sure to take consent. California law requires both people to agree to recording private conversations. It helps to talk to an employment lawyer before trying to record anything.

Follow the right reporting steps.

California law has clear steps for reporting workplace harassment and abuse. First, you have to talk to the person who is mistreating you and let them know that their behavior is making you uncomfortable. However, you should only do it if it is safe.

If talking to them does not bring any positive change or feels unsafe, you can then report the issue to your human resources department or your supervisor. In California, employers must provide a different way to report such behavior. This can be an email or phone number that you can use even after office hours.

Know your legal rights.

If you are working in California, you have various protections under the law. The California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA) gives you full protection, especially if the abuse relates to your race, religion, gender, or disability.

Unfortunately, not all forms of workplace bullying are considered to be illegal. However, if the same behavior occurs frequently or is severe in nature, it can create a hostile work environment.

In Ontario, California, you have the right to file complaints. You can do this through two channels– the California Civil Rights Department (CRD) and the federal Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Seek professional support.

Workplace abuse can affect your emotions and mental health and cause problems like anxiety, depression, and stress. While you handle the situation at your workplace, it is important to take care of yourself. Seek help from mental health professionals and join employee support groups who can help you cope with the situation better.