Bullying

 

Q        As an employer can I be held responsible for the actions of one of my customers if they are rude and abusive to one of my members of staff?

A       Potentially, yes.  You must make every effort to protect your staff during the working day and if you could reasonably foresee that an employee would be subjected to inappropriate treatment, or you fail to take appropriate steps to protect an employee once you are aware of a problem, you can be held legally liable.

 

Q        Employees have been circulating a picture of another member of staff on their mobile phones with derogatory comments about their change of hairstyle.  The pictured employee is really upset by this, but I don't feel I can intervene when it's on private mobile phones.  Am I responsible for their actions?

A        Yes, the actions of your employees is tantamount to bullying and you are responsible for anything that occurs during the course of employment.  There has been an increase in allegations of bullying and harassment by mobile phones and email, so make sure you update your policies and make it clear that this type of behaviour will not be tolerated.

 

See also:

• Grievance

• Harassment