Discrimination in employment law refers to the unfair treatment of an employee based on their protected status. The Alaska Human Rights Law and federal laws illegalize discrimination in the workplace, regardless of who the liable party is. Employers might want to set up anti-discrimination policies because of the reasons below.
Reduces liability
A company with anti-discrimination policies supports the safety and well-being of its employees. Because they advocate against discrimination, it is less likely that other people will accuse them of perpetuating unfair employment practices. You believe in anti-discrimination, and your company has an active stance against it. You are doing what you can to prevent it. Therefore, you should take strict action against offenders. Your employees should simply follow procedures to avoid any adverse action against them.
Prevents wrongful workplace conduct
Your company can use anti-discrimination policies to explain how discrimination happens in the workplace and prevent employees from doing it. An employee may think their jokes are funny, but the targeted person may feel differently. By establishing an effective anti-discrimination policy, your company can explicitly explain to its employees what they should and should not do in the workplace.
Provides an affirmative defense
Anti-discrimination policies not only enhance overall productivity and employee satisfaction but also give you an affirmative defense if an employee decides to pursue a lawsuit against your company. Employees might pursue legal action if a supervisor or colleague discriminates against them. The employer and company become liable if they are negligent towards their employees’ safety and health. Because you have anti-discrimination and anti-harassment policies in place and provide adequate training to your management and employees, you have done your part as any responsible employer.
You allow employees to understand what discrimination is and how the company will discipline them if they discriminate against their managers, supervisors, subordinates or peers. You value your employees, and your company is fully committed to eliminating discrimination and harassment.