Harassment, discrimination, and retaliation are prohibited under this policy. Harassment refers to unwelcome conduct based on protected characteristics that creates a hostile environment or interferes with work performance. Discrimination involves treating someone differently because of protected traits. Retaliation means taking adverse action against someone for reporting concerns or participating in an investigation.
Protected characteristics are defined in the policy and include race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, pregnancy status, and other legally protected traits. The policy applies to all workers, contractors, interns, and third parties across locations and remote work settings.
Examples of prohibited conduct include unwelcome comments or jokes about protected traits, offensive gestures, unwanted physical contact, coercion, deliberate exclusion from work activities, spreading rumors, or harassment that creates a hostile environment. Quid pro quo situations also fall under harassment in many contexts.
The goal is a safe, inclusive workplace where everyone can work without fear of harassment or discrimination. All employees, managers, and leaders share responsibility to prevent prohibited conduct. Violations may result in disciplinary action up to termination, in line with policy and law.