Name: Natesha Thorpe Human Resource Management Date: August 19, 2012 What is discrimination?

Discrimination can be termed as the unjust act whether verbal or physical, directly or indirectly to an individual, race or sex of a person. Treating employees fairly means every individual have a right to be treated with respect despite their economic, or social status in the working world. A person can face gender discrimination in the work place and this is when one gender is preferred over the other, for example a male co-worker maybe selected for a position that showed that woman is capable of doing it but because the manager is prejudice against women he opt to choose a male for the job instead. Age discrimination is also a global discrimination especially when it comes to retirement the older employees are always at a higher risk of being terminated in favour of younger employees who the company may view as fresh young face and maybe even given less pay based off their looks and not background knowledge and experiences. There are also: Religious, Disability and Race discrimination just to name a few. Consequences for employers and employees may varies, if an individual have been discriminated in the workplace he/she may be awarded for compensation. Compensation may include loss of earnings, an award for injury of feelings, or an order that such discrimination ceases and this can be decided by a board/agency. The consequence(s) for an employer is that he/she can be brought to the board of committee and he/she may be suspended without pay and it also depends on the seriousness of their act of discrimination. They also can be forced to resign, be demoted and can even be sued again this also depends on the nature of the discrimination in a case of sexual harassment; the accused may even be charged and go to jail. Ways in which employers can protect themselves against discrimination: All managers should set good examples in their workplace. Ensure all staff are fully aware of what behaviour is acceptable and unacceptable. Promote a work culture of tolerance and equality. Make sure policies are put in place to promote equality and this must also include anti-bullying and ensure that they are implemented. Any form of discrimination, harassment or bullying should be dealt with appropriately and as discreetly as possible and in a professional manner with the uttermost confidentiality of the person(s) who are under investigation.