When most people think of sexual harassment at the workplace, they imagine a situation in which they are the victim of unwanted sexual advances (either physical or verbal) or bribed/blackmailed in a sexual way. While these examples certainly qualify as sexual harassment, and they are arguably the most common types of sexual harassment in the workplace, they are far from the only types. For example, simply being exposed to pornography against your will can qualify as well.
In nearly every workplace in California, it is inappropriate to look at pornography while on the clock. Despite this, some individuals seek to use pornography to assault their coworkers, hoping to make them uncomfortable or even entice them into sexual acts. For example, a co-worker who sends you an email with a pornographic image attached can easily qualify as sexual harassment. There does not even have to be verbal or physical contact.
When you are at your place of work, you have a right to feel safe, secure and comfortable. Most people understand that pornography is not socially acceptable, especially at the workplace. Despite this, some individuals may find it funny or enjoyable to display pornographic images as their screen saver. However, if these images make you uncomfortable, even if you were not meant to see them, you could claim that you were sexually harassed.
For more information on how pornography in the workplace can qualify as sexual harassment, visit this webpage. There are many more examples of sexual harassment in the workplace, and nobody in California should have to suffer any of them. If you are the victim of sexual harassment, please contact us and set up a consultation to discuss the aspects of your case. We can help you take advantage of your rights as an employee.