Discrimination in the workplace is an easy way to discourage quality people from working for you. If not taken care of, it could create a toxic work environment, which reduces productivity as well as worker morale. Most importantly, discrimination is illegal and could cost your business money as well as its reputation. What can you do to spot discrimination and stop it quickly?

Have an Anonymous Tip Line
Workers, managers and others associated with your company should have an avenue to address potential discrimination with someone who can stop it. Ideally, they would come to you personally, but some may feel uncomfortable calling out a colleague or believe that nothing would happen if they said something to management. Allowing workers to speak without revealing themselves allows the company to become aware of potential issues and stop them before they lead to lawsuits or other action taken against the organization.

Resolve Conflicts Confidentially
Even if a case against your company is dismissed or settled confidentially, it still takes time and money to resolve them. Furthermore, the fact that your company is being sued may be made public, which may only lead to rumors and speculation as facts of the case may not be made public. It is important to note that discrimination can take many forms.  Professionals, like those at Bachus & Schanker Law, know that  defaming another member of the company or failing to promote someone based on their looks or religious beliefs is illegal.  Avoiding this sort of thing is definitely advisable in all circumstances.

Know Your Obligations Under Employment Law
The Civil Rights Act of 1964 gives broad protections to a wide range of employees. Employees enjoy protections against discrimination based on race, gender and religious beliefs. They may also be protected against discrimination based on a disability if it is reasonable to accommodate that worker. If a claim is made against the company, you are not allowed to retaliate or take any actions that would be seen as retaliation. Instead, you should document the claim and start an investigation. If you don't think that you can complete the investigation in a neutral manner, you should find an independent entity that can.

When a worker faces discrimination, he or she may not produce to his or her best ability. In addition, that person could initiate a lawsuit that brings down the reputation of the company and the brand. Therefore, you should take steps to prevent discrimination or make sure that a plan is in place to address any allegations made by anyone associated with your company.