In today’s episode we focus on the important topic that is often part of HR investigations: a hostile work environment. In this episode, we examine:

• The definition of hostile work environment harassment
• How hostile work environment is different from workplace bullying
• A review of protected characteristics under federal law
• Why there isn’t any longer management “off the record” conversations regarding harassment in the workplace
• The employers’ defense to claims of hostile work environment harassment
• Current and emerging legislation regarding abusive conduct in the workplace

Connect with The HR Investigations Podcast

• Visit RPC HR for show notes and more information.
• Check out Natalie's book ‘How to Conduct Internal Investigations: A Practical Guide for Human Resource Professionals’ here: https://tinyurl.com/y39s7n77

Episode 31 Show Notes: Investigating Employees Unreasonable ADA Accommodations Requests

In today’s episode we focus on the Americans with Disabilities Act and specifically some best practices in handling employee accommodation requests that may not necessarily be reasonable. We’ll discuss using job descriptions during internal investigations when an employees allege that they are being discriminated against because of a disability.

In this episode, we examine:

• The importance of well written job descriptions using ADA compliant language
• How to determine if an employee’s request for a reasonable accommodation is a reasonable request or possibly an undue hardship
• The importance of clearly defining essential job functions or Bona Fide Occupational Qualifications on job descriptions
• How to minimize the risk of an EEOC charge for disability discrimination
• The legal definition of undue hardship and the courts’ view of employee requests that are generally considered unreasonable and an undue hardship

Connect with The HR Investigations Podcast

• Visit RPC HR for show notes and more information.
• Check out Natalie's book ‘How to Conduct Internal Investigations: A Practical Guide for Human Resource Professionals’ here: https://tinyurl.com/y39s7n77

In today’s episode we focus on data privacy and why it matters to HR professionals. Subject matter expert and attorney, Jason Barrett, will shed light on the valuable compliance topic of data privacy and specifically data breaches. He’ll talk about new state laws that HR needs to know about and best practices for employers on how to minimize risk in running afoul of data privacy laws.

In this episode, we explore:

• What exactly is data privacy and why is it important to HR
• Review of the Texas Data and Privacy Secrecy Act
• Review key takeaways and data privacy best practices for employers
• Review key issues for employers when experiencing a data breach
• Employer strategies to minimize risk of non-compliance

Connect with The HR Investigations Podcast

• Visit RPC HR for show notes and more information.
• Check out Natalie's book ‘How to Conduct Internal Investigations: A Practical Guide for Human Resource Professionals’ here: https://tinyurl.com/y39s7n77