Is this grounds for a hostile work environment
Hi everyone,
I am currently seeking to determine if the situation below constitutes a hostile work environment claim, and if I should do more than make a report through my company’s Human Resources department. Ideally if someone who has had experience or even legal experience regarding this it would be very helpful.
Context: I work at a stand-alone outpatient surgery clinic which is owned by a physician who was currently performing surgery on the date of the incident.
Essentially the doctor in question, who is also the company CEO, was upset that his cases were ordered in a particular way and became frustrated and agitated. Without directly talking to myself or any other staff he began making statements in a manner that I would describe as condescending and sarcastic regarding not being able to complete a procedure on the given time. This was done essentially in public, within the physical presence of other staff as well as within earshot of patients. Given that it is my responsibility to schedule cases and direct the procedure day, in context, the statements were directed to me and my work. At no time did the doctor in question attempt to speak in a calm manner, nor did he attempt to talk to me about this matter in private or with a supervisor. He then Started using profanity, not sure if it was directed to anyone in particular, but he repeatedly called the situation a “shit show”.
Some time later on he was approached by another doctor and spoke about an unrelated matter than required his attention. During this conversation he agreed to look in to an item, and stated essentially he had time to look in to it because “apparently no one respects my time”.
I still need to obtain a copy of the employee code of conduct or similar document to cite specific violations.
So far, I’m writing a detailed summary of what happened, keeping in mind time, location, possible witnesses, and physical characteristics. As of now my only option appears to be filing an incident report with my company HR through an anonymous ethics reporting portal. I am curious to see if anyone with experience could weigh in on other options, legal or otherwise that I can use to A. Prevent any retaliation, or future instances of this behavior, B. Ensure this matter is addressed by the company in a proper fashion.
Thank you