False/Unfounded Allegations: What About The Unsubstantiated Complaints?

As long as there are harassment and respectful workplace policies that provide employees an opportunity to file complaints against their fellow employees, there will be, periodically, false or unfounded allegations. Employers can put themselves in a better position to avoid the liability associated with such false or unfounded allegations if they abide by the following:

1. A Clear and Appropriately Restrictive Definition of Bullying and Harassment

Bullying and harassment are inherently fuzzy concepts. One person's harassment or bullying may be another person's discipline or constructive criticism. A clear definition of bullying and harassment that is contained in a policy ("Policy") that complies with applicable legislation should decrease the number of false or unfounded allegations.