What defines a hostile work environment?

A hostile work environment is primarily defined by conduct that impedes the performance of employees in the workplace. Such conduct can include any form of harassment, discrimination, or inappropriate behavior that creates an intimidating, hostile, or abusive atmosphere. This type of environment significantly affects employees’ well-being and productivity, leading to decreased performance and engagement.

While high employee turnover, low morale, or excessive supervision may indicate issues within a workplace, they do not specifically define a hostile work environment. These factors can result from various organizational problems but do not directly relate to the legal definition or criteria of a hostile work environment, which focuses on the impact of specific behaviors on employee performance. Thus, the core of what makes a work environment "hostile" revolves around actions that directly impede an employee's ability to perform their job effectively.