R477-16-1. Policy

  It is the policy of the State of Utah to provide a work environment free from abusive conduct.

  (1) Abusive conduct includes physical, verbal or nonverbal conduct, such as derogatory remarks, insults, or epithets made by an employee that a reasonable person would determine:

  (a) was intended to cause intimidation, humiliation, or unwarranted distress;

  (b) exploits a known physical or psychological disability; or

  (c) results in substantial physical or psychological harm caused by intimidation, humiliation or unwarranted distress.

  (2) The following actions do not constitute abusive conduct unless they are especially severe and egregious:

  (a) a single act;

  (b) appropriate disciplinary or administrative actions;

  (c) appropriate coaching or work-related feedback;

  (d) reasonable work assignments or job reassignments; or

  (e) reasonable differences in styles of management, communication, expression, or opinion.

  (3) An employee may be subject to discipline under this rule even if the conduct occurs outside of scheduled work time or work location.

  (4) Once a complaint of abusive conduct has been filed, the accused may not communicate with the complainant regarding allegations in the complaint.