can an employer touch an employee?

Answer 1

Legality or not depends on context. If the touch would be offensive to a reasonable person, it constitutes civil battery, which, as an intentional tort, is not barred by workers' compensation.

If it is unwelcome sexual touching, it can be assault and it is a hostile workplace claim under the Equal Employment Act. You can sue for that, too.

Answer 2

That depends on the context. If its in a threatening manner then no. If its friendly banter that happens all the time between guys then yes. If its a male boss touching a female employee then no. If its a female boss touching a male employee it depends on whether she is good looking ;)

Answer 3

In general, the answer would be no. There are however circumstances that may require touching or that making touching unavoidable. Any touching between people in the workplace should be appropriate, as in not aggressive or sexual.

Answer 4

It is not a good idea. This applies to all employees also. Touching can be construed as sexual harrassment. Better to keep yours hands to yourself at work.

Answer 5

Depends... is it shaking their hand or putting a hand on their shoulder? Sure.

But not if it 1) is threatening, 2) has a sexual connotation or 3) creates a hostile work environment.

Answer 6

I dont think it is a good idea to 'touch' anyone without their consent.
It could be interpreted in many ways, most in a negative. It is best to keep their grubby hands to themselves.

Answer 7

Based SOLELY on the facts in your post, YES.

Or can you cite a law which makes it illegal to shake hands.

Answer 8

it depends on who u touching, some might consider it sexual arrassment, and some might call it being friendly.

Answer 9

No. Never.