An unsettling percentage of the DOL’s Office of the Solicitor workforce (17.4% of national office employees and 24.5% of regional office employees) indicated they did not feel “comfortable disclosing suspected violations of any law, rule, or regulations without fear of reprisal.” Solicitor of Labor Seema Nanda acknowledged the inconsistency with the Department’s mission (the office is charged with enforcing anti-retaliation and related laws).
Business Takeaway: While there is certainly a touch of irony in this story about the DOL, it is also a stark reminder of the importance of the tone and culture set by a business or institution, and its effects on employee morale and retention. Do your employees feel safe in disclosing potential breaches of policy or law?