Businesses should carry Employment Liability Practices Insurance, or EPLI, to protect from harassment claims. Strong HR policies and practices may reduce your chances of having legal claims filed against you for various allegations, including harassment. Your general liability policy will not cover legal expenses for harassment lawsuits. EPLI can pay for legal costs if someone files a claim against your company.
EPLI and Workplace Harassment
Harassment is a common subject of legal suits, whether from management or other employees. This category includes sexual harassment and general workplace harassment. EPLI protects your business from various claims involving harassment, including allegations of invasion of privacy and emotional or mental distress due to workplace harassment.
Federal laws establish the legal understanding of what harassment is, and the federal government explains recognized harassment clearly. Best practices in today’s litigious workplace call for business harassment prevention. Five specific policies can become effective tools in preventing harassment.
Comprehensive and Strong Policies Regarding Harassment
Even though EPLI coverage is a safety net against legal claims, your ABA business should clearly state its harassment policies. This policy statement should specify that the policy applies to employees at all levels, clients, and applicants. A comprehensive harassment policy also includes the following:
- A clear description of prohibited behavior, including examples
- Encouragement to report behavior they feel is harassment.
- A description of your processes for reporting inappropriate behavior
- A statement that those who report incidents of harassment, as well as those alleged to have committed inappropriate acts, will remain confidential
In addition, your policy should state that you will investigate claims promptly.
Consistent Accountability
To have an effective policy that prevents workplace harassment, it is best not to throw it under the rug. Review your policy regularly, and involve employees. Ask them to participate in anonymous surveys. Other ways to show accountability include:
- Setting up a process for testing the harassment policy
- Promptly investigating complaints about the policy, its implementation, or training programs
- Informing employees and any other interested parties when you make changes to the policy based on employee feedback
Engaged Leadership
Business harassment prevention starts with company leaders, whether your ABA business is large or small. Practices for engaged leaders may include:
- Active interest in harassment prevention policies
- Provide adequate resources for harassment prevention strategies
- Work to create a professional environment of safety and well-being for employees, clients, and others, including vendors
- Impose prompt disciplinary measures equivalent to the seriousness of offenses
- Get outside professional reviews of harassment prevention policies
EPLI specialists can advise you to make the most of your policy and create effective prevention strategies.
Training
A critical factor in preventing workplace harassment is ongoing education and training for all levels, from executives and management to every employee. Repeat training regularly.
Accessible Complaint Process
Your business harassment prevention practices should include a process for complaints that is easy and clear. This process should treat all involved in a complaint process and investigation respectfully. Furthermore, you should be able to translate your policy into multiple languages.
The Importance of EPLI
Even the best harassment prevention strategies sometimes fail. Employment-related lawsuits can drain your assets quickly. Having EPLI coverage customized to your business allows you to breathe easier and focus on helping others.
Olson Duncan
At Olson Duncan Insurance, we strive to offer all-inclusive solutions rather than mere quotes or policies. Our clients rely on lasting, trust-based relationships and appreciate the tailored insurance and risk management solutions they receive. Contact Daniel and our team at (310) 373-6441 to discuss your needs or request a quote.