by Doug Anderson

Graphics and Commercial Art

Rick, a press operator, is famous for swearing at his press in order to "make it run." He has used foul language for years and has never received any complaints from fellow workers (who have been known to use similar language themselves).

One day Gail, a girl who works in the front office is walking through the press area as Rick is "making adjustments" on the press. Upon hearing the kind of language used, Gail takes great offense and complains to Rick's supervisor.

Questions:

Does Gail have the right to expect other people to talk differently around her than they would normally?

Is Rick's language normal?

Should Rick respect the fact that his language might be offensive to some people?

What should Rick's supervisor do?

Could Gail have handled this problem differently?

What are some other ways of dealing with abusive language?