Discrimination in the Workplace

When it’s allowed, and when it’s not.

Workplace discrimination is discrimination in the hiring, terms and conditions of employment, promotion or dismissal of employees. It is unlawful for an employer to discriminate against an employee because of, among other things, the employee’s race, caste, religion or sexuality.

However, workplace discrimination is allowed in some situations – if it relates to a necessary requirement of a job (such as if you are applying for a pizza delivery job, they can discriminate against your application if you don’t have a driver’s license), or if an employer is assisting someone with specific needs, such as giving an employee additional breaks to take medication.

You should try to address issues of discrimination at work by speaking to your supervisor or human resources manager. There may be processes already in place in the workplace to deal with issues of discrimination, such as an anti-discrimination policy or a complaints procedure.

If you feel that there is no alternative in your workplace, you should seek legal advice.

It is best to seek advice before lodging a complaint.