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Discrimination / Harassment

Confidentiality rules protect EAP counselors

05/01/2001
Employee assistance program (EAP) counselors are covered by the same privilege of confidentiality that’s granted to licensed psychotherapists, says the 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals. This is the first time …

Dress code can differentiate among workers’ positions

05/01/2001

Q. Can we set a dress code policy that bars visible tattoos and multiple piercing on our receptionist but not other workers who have less public contact? —D.O., Maryland

Keep pay in line with work performed

05/01/2001

Q. A salaried supervisor was unable to handle the stress of his job and requested a transfer. Six months ago, we moved him to a rank-and-file hourly position, but we left him at the higher salary. I think I’m being unfair to the other co-workers in that position. May I reduce his wages to the hourly rate? —C.T., Iowa

Forcing older staff to take exams singles you out for a lawsuit

04/01/2001
The New York City Transit Authority required employees over age 40 to undergo an electrocardiogram (EKG) to be considered for the job of station supervisor. Jack Epter, 46, passed the …

Snuff out gossip about firings; don’t forward damaging e-mail

04/01/2001
New York Life forbade employees to use their corporate American Express cards for personal items. But Phyllis Meloff says she got permission to use the card for her commuting costs as …

Harassment: Your response makes all the difference

04/01/2001
Case 1: The ‘sex’retary Lesley Gentry’s boss constantly hugged her, kissed her and made suggestive comments, such as asking her to “try out the back counter” with him. He gave …

Worker has duty to file complaint.

04/01/2001
Lynne Barrett told seven other employees, the CEO’s son and two lawyers that her supervisor sexually harassed her. But she never reported the misconduct to any of the 12 managers designated …

Scales tip against weight rule

04/01/2001
The U.S. Supreme Court recently let stand a ruling that an airline’s weight policy discriminated against women. (United Airlines v. Frank, 00-948) The 9th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals decided …

Grooming policies: Establish limits, not discrimination

04/01/2001
Frank’s boss asked him to quit wearing his earring to work. Frank refused, arguing that women in the office were allowed to wear earrings. He was fired and then sued for …

Steer Clear of Asking About Religion

04/01/2001

Q. When, if ever, can our company legally ask an applicant about his or her religious affiliation? —R.M., Illinois