Female Construction Worker Fired After Reporting Sexual Harassment

December 14, 2016

A female ironworker was fired from a Staten Island construction project after complaining that a male colleague demanded her panties and took photos of her in the bathroom.

The 34-year-old woman of Long Island says she was recruited to work for the company in July because of her “experience and professionalism.”

Two weeks into the project, the woman said a male colleague accused her of flirting with a shop steward. She said he told her that he would tell her fiance unless she gave him her underwear.

The woman reported the behavior to her supervisor and the man was reportedly reprimanded, but the harassment continued.

The man followed the woman to the porta potty and took pictures of her through a broken vent above the door and then threatened to disclose the pics unless she had sex with him, according to court papers.

The woman reported the incident to the union and her boss, but the man still shared the images with male coworkers.

When she demanded a more secure bathroom, she was fired in August.

She is suing for back pay and other damages.

Every person has the right to work in an environment free of sexual harassment. Despite the laws that are set in place to protect workers from illegal behavior, sexual harassment cases are filed every single day. Our Florida Sexual Harassment Employment Lawyers at Whittel & Melton are committed to helping employees who have suffered harassment on the job get the justice they deserve.

Sexual harassment is unacceptable in the workplace. This includes any unwelcome comments, actions, or behaviors that affect your ability to enjoy and perform your job, such as:

• Unwelcome sexual advances
• Demands for sexual favors
• Verbal or physical conduct with sexual undertones

If your employer fails to take corrective action or if you have been fired after reporting any incidents, let us help. Your consultation with us is free and we can help you understand the legal steps that need to be taken to right the wrongful actions against you. Call us today at 866-608-5529 or contact us online.