What should employees do if faced with serious complaints of discrimination, retaliation, or harassment that cannot be resolved immediately?

The appropriate action for employees faced with serious complaints of discrimination, retaliation, or harassment that cannot be resolved immediately is to report the issue to the Office of the Inspector General (OIG). This step is crucial as the OIG serves as an independent body that can investigate complaints impartially and ensure that proper procedures are followed in addressing serious allegations.

By forwarding the complaint to the OIG, the employee ensures that the matter is handled by individuals with the authority and expertise to conduct thorough investigations into potential misconduct, which is vital for maintaining a safe and compliant workplace. This is especially important in cases involving serious allegations where immediate resolution is not possible and there is a need for objective oversight.

While contacting HR is typically a standard procedure for handling workplace grievances, the specific context of serious complaints often warrants involving the OIG to ensure that the matter is treated with the utmost seriousness and that appropriate actions are taken without bias. Therefore, reporting to the OIG aligns with the commitment to uphold a harassment-free environment and ensure accountability within the organization.