PITTSBURGH — An investigation into a harassment case at the Veterans Affairs Pittsburgh Healthcare System resulted in the firing of two employees and disciplinary actions being taken against five others, the VA said Thursday.
The case, which had been under investigation since June, involved a plumber who claimed to have been tied up with duct tape and left alone at the hospital in Pittsburgh's Oakland neighborhood.
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It was originally proposed that a third employee be fired, but VA interim Director Barbara Forsha decided on a lesser disciplinary action.
"These actions underscore our commitment to promoting a safe and inclusive work environment for all of our employees," Forsha said of the punishments handed down to the seven employees involved.
The VA said it requires employees to take workplace harassment training annually. However, in light of the harassment case, employees will be required to take additional workplace harassment training.
Another change includes a focus group created by the VA Pittsburgh's executive leadership. It is intended to encourage employees to share their experiences, complaints and proposed solutions to workplace issues.
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