The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) recently released an enforcement report that shows the first increase in discrimination charge filings since 2002. As in past years, race and sex discrimination as well as retaliation were the most frequently filed cases but there was also an increase in the number of cases that were filed for disability, religion and national origin.

According to the report, the EEOC recovered a total of approximately $274 million in monetary relief for charging parties. Although Federal law requires at least 15 employees on staff to file a discrimination claim with the EEOC, state laws may allow a discrimination claim with as few as one employee.

An employer's best defense against discrimination is to develop a strong equal employment opportunity (EEO) policy that is clearly communicated and accepted by both managers and employees. To ensure compliance with pertinent labor laws and avoid potential liability in discrimination claims, employers must educate themselves, their supervisors, and managers about the legal issues that affect the workplace and post mandatory notices. Personnel Concepts has created an employee poster for conspicuous display that shows your intent to comply with all laws and regulations and creates a prima facie defense in case of fines and legal actions.