1. Statement of Commitment

Westside Market is committed to maintaining a workplace free from discrimination, harassment, and any form of inappropriate conduct that may create a hostile work environment.

The company strictly prohibits any behavior that constitutes unlawful harassment, discrimination, retaliation, or workplace misconduct as defined under applicable Georgia labor laws and federal employment laws (including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Equal Employment Opportunity Act).

All employees are expected to conduct themselves professionally and respectfully while on duty, and any violations will be addressed in accordance with this policy and applicable legal guidelines.

2. Reporting & Complaint Procedure

📌 Step 1: Prompt Notification
✅ Any employee who believes they have experienced or witnessed discrimination, harassment, or inappropriate behavior is encouraged to report the incident immediately.
✅ Complaints should be submitted preferably in writing to:

• Direct Supervisor
• Store Manager
• Operations Manager (if the concern involves a supervisor)
  ✅ Reports should be made within twenty-four (24) hours of the incident or as soon as reasonably possible.

📌 Step 2: Investigation & Confidentiality
✅ Upon receiving a complaint, the Operations Manager (or designated HR representative) will initiate a prompt, thorough, and impartial investigation.
✅ The investigation process may include:

• Interviewing the complainant, accused party, and any witnesses.
• Reviewing relevant documents or communications.
• Gathering other supporting evidence as necessary.
  ✅ The company will make every reasonable effort to maintain confidentiality and protect the privacy of all parties involved.

🚨 Retaliation against employees for reporting a complaint in good faith is strictly prohibited.

3. Corrective Measures & Disciplinary Action

📌 If the investigation substantiates the complaint, the company will take appropriate corrective action, which may include:
✅ Verbal or written warnings.
✅ Mandatory training on professional workplace conduct.
✅ Reassignment or modification of work duties (if applicable).
✅ Suspension or termination of employment, depending on the severity of the misconduct.

📌 Notification of Outcome
✅ Once the investigation is concluded, the complainant will be notified of:

• Whether the complaint was substantiated.
• Any corrective actions taken by the company.

🚨 To protect confidentiality, details of disciplinary measures imposed on the accused party may not be disclosed in full.

4. Preventive Measures & Employee Responsibility

📌 Proactive Steps to Maintain a Safe Workplace
✅ Westside Market is committed to preventing inappropriate conduct from escalating to unlawful behavior.
✅ The company will:

• Conduct training sessions on workplace respect and anti-harassment policies.
• Promote a culture of zero tolerance for discrimination or harassment.
• Ensure all employees are aware of their rights and responsibilities under this policy.

📌 Employee Responsibilities
✅ Employees are required to:

• Treat all colleagues, customers, and vendors with professionalism and respect.
• Report inappropriate conduct immediately to maintain a safe work environment.
• Participate in training programs related to workplace safety and inclusion.

🚨 Failure to report known violations of this policy may result in disciplinary action.

5. Addressing False Accusations

📌 Handling Malicious or False Complaints
✅ The company recognizes the seriousness of false accusations and their potential impact on individuals.
✅ If an investigation determines that a complaint was filed intentionally and maliciously with false information, the individual responsible may face:

• Disciplinary action, up to and including termination.
• Legal consequences, if applicable under Georgia law.

🚨 Employees who report concerns in good faith will NEVER face disciplinary action, even if the investigation does not substantiate their claim.

6. Legal Compliance & Enforcement

📌 Georgia Labor Law Compliance
✅ This policy aligns with Georgia’s workplace harassment, anti-discrimination, and employment protection laws, as well as federal statutes including:

• Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964
• The Equal Pay Act (EPA)
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
• The Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA)

📌 Enforcement & Consequences
✅ Violations of this policy will be taken seriously and may lead to immediate termination.
✅ Westside Market reserves the right to amend this policy as necessary to comply with legal requirements and best practices.

7. Summary of Key Policy Points

✔ Westside Market strictly prohibits discrimination, harassment, and workplace misconduct.
✔ Employees should report any concerns within 24 hours to a Supervisor or Operations Manager.
✔ The company will conduct a thorough investigation while ensuring confidentiality.
✔ Corrective action will be taken based on investigation findings.
✔ False accusations will result in disciplinary measures.
✔ Retaliation against employees for reporting a complaint in good faith is strictly prohibited.

By upholding this policy, Westside Market ensures a professional, inclusive, and legally compliant workplace where all employees can thrive.

For any questions or concerns regarding this policy, please contact the Operations Manager or HR Department.

Here are the information needed to make a report:

Report Form