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Inappropriate touching in the workplace - regardless of gender - is any unwelcome, non-consensual physical contact that violates personal boundaries and creates a hostile work environment. It can range from groping and massaging to holding hands and hugging. Inappropriate touching can be considered sexual harassment when it is severe or pervasive, meaning that it is either very serious or happens frequently. Do you know what to look out for when it comes to potential harassment?

While it may be well intentioned, the physical contact is uninvited and obviously not welcomed. If the behavior persists, and particularly if it's accompanied by comments like – “why don't you come over tonight and I'll really get you loosened up” - then it could be considered sexual harassment.

Remember, it doesn't matter if a person is sexually harassed by someone of the same or opposite sex - either situation could lead to a lawsuit.