Sexism at work while working from home: 980 CKNW

A UK law firm conducted a survey that illuminated the alarming results of working from home for women. At least 35% of women had experienced at least one sexist workplace demand since the coronavirus lockdown started in March. Has this code of conduct been commonplace for women everywhere? What rights do they have in a situation like this?

A Vancouver employment lawyer at Samfiru Tumarkin LLP joined host Jody Vance on Global News Radio 980 CKNW to answer these questions and more.

What They Discussed

• Are these statistics surprising?
  This is another conversation that needs to be had as though physical workplaces have addressed the issue, the work environment has changed.
• Is it permissible for an employer to ask this of an employee?
  This is not an appropriate request from an employer and is considered discriminatory. An employee could file a human rights complaint.
• What are the practical options an employee would have in this situation?
  An employee should keep track of these correspondences, particularly in writing.
• Can an employer request certain attire while working remotely?
  An employer is within their rights to ask for professionalism in client calls, however, they cannot ask for requests that single out a particular group.
• What are an employee’s options if their employer does not put these requests in writing?
  Screen captures of messages are an option short of official correspondence.
• Is there value in alerting other co-workers to these requests?
  The more evidence and potential witnesses the better it is for an employee filing a discrimination complaint.