“It was just a joke.” If your “joke” is at another shipbuilder’s expense, it’s not funny. If someone looks uneasy after hearing it, it’s best to pause and respect their boundaries immediately. Ignoring discomfort or pushing further crosses the line into harassment.
Zero Compromise means we don’t accept disrespectful behaviors, even when it seems small. Remember, every shipbuilder deserves a safe, professional workplace.
What is a Boundary? Any action—verbal, physical or gesture—that makes someone feel uncomfortable must be stopped. Even casual jokes or comments can cross the line. If someone says no or shows unease, a boundary is being crossed.
SCENARIO: A team member is struggling with a task, and someone says loudly, “Wow, you really can’t handle that, can you?” and others laugh.
BOUNDARY: The comment singles out a coworker and creates embarrassment or discomfort. Laughter from others can amplify feelings of exclusion or humiliation. This behavior disregards the coworker’s right to a respectful, professional environment.
APPROPRIATE RESPONSE: Address the behavior by calmly reminding everyone comments like that are not acceptable. Support your coworker by checking in on them privately to make sure they’re good. Report it to Ethics OpenLine if it continues.
Don't Ignore It, Report It
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Ethics OpenLine is your confidential resource for asking questions, voicing concerns or reporting suspected violations
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Available 24/7 online and by phone
📞 (877) 631-0020
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Other Ways to Report: Direct supervisor, Ethics Office/Business Conduct Officer, Human Resources, Labor Relations
Why It Matters: Boundaries protect trust, teamwork and focus. Respecting coworkers’ comfort creates a professional shipyard environment and helps everyone do their best work.
Every shipbuilder has a role in standing up against harassment and supporting
a Zero Compromise culture that respects other’s boundaries.
HII strictly prohibits any form of retaliation against any employee who in good faith voices a concern, makes a complaint, reports misconduct, reports an illegal act or violation of company policies/procedures, or provides assistance in an investigation.