What does a “hostile work environment” mean?
A hostile work environment is one in which certain behaviors may be occurring that interfere with an individual’s ability to work effectively. The behaviors may be verbal, physical or non-verbal, and may be hurtful to someone on the basis of gender, national origin, religion, race, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation. All employees have the right to work in an environment free from harassment. All supervisors and managers have the responsibility to ensure that work environments are free from harassment, and must take all complaints seriously.
