Sexual harassment does not always come from a boss or coworker. A client, customer, vendor or other third party can also make your workday uncomfortable or unsafe. You may face sexual jokes, comments about your body, unwanted messages or repeated requests for dates....
sexual harassment
What if someone outside the company sexually harasses a worker?
Sexual harassment by a customer, vendor or contractor may leave you feeling exposed and unsure where to turn. An outsider’s role can make the harm seem harder to address. If you face such behavior, workplace protections may still apply. Knowing what your employer...
How can small business employees report sexual harassment?
When your team is small and professional roles overlap, lines between normal workplace interaction and inappropriate conduct can blur in ways that leave you unsure of where to turn. Knowing what you can do in this scenario is the first step toward protecting yourself...
Why sexual harassment in the workplace is so underreported
Sexual harassment in the workplace is unlawful. The Pennsylvania Human Relations Act (PHRA) prohibits unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbal, physical, or visual conduct of a sexual nature. The PHRA considers these behaviors sexual...
What can you do if HR ignores harassment in Pennsylvania rights?
Workplace sexual harassment can create stress, especially when Human Resource (HR) does not respond after a report. Pennsylvania law provides protections that may apply in these situations, depending on the facts and circumstances of the workplace. Even when HR does...
What if employee sexual harassment occurs outside of work?
This time of year, many businesses are having holiday parties. Often, these are at off-site venues like restaurants and hotels where employees can relax, enjoy a meal and a few drinks and maybe even dance or play games. Increasingly, companies have been foregoing...
Same sex sexual harassment can be embarrassing for workers
Employees facing same-sex harassment often find themselves in a uniquely uncomfortable situation. They may fear being judged, misunderstood or even ridiculed if they speak up. For instance, a male employee harassed by another man might worry that others will question...
Can one’s clothing be used against a sexual harassment victim?
Sexual harassment is never the fault of the person experiencing it, no matter what they are wearing. Yet, clothing still comes up in harassment cases, especially when trying to shift blame or cast doubt on a victim’s credibility. This can be confusing and unfair. If...
How sexual harassment laws differ for small businesses
Sexual harassment laws protect employees from unwanted behavior in the workplace. In Pennsylvania, both federal and state laws address sexual harassment. However, small businesses often face different legal rules depending on the number of employees they have. It is...
What are common myths about sexual harassment at work?
Sexual harassment at work is often misunderstood. Misinformation can prevent employees from recognizing harassment or speaking up. Knowing the facts helps you protect yourself and your coworkers. There are some common myths you should understand, as well as the truth...

