FAQ & Other Resources

Why does Human Resources Investigations Unit exist?

The Mayor's Executive Order 2018-04 created the Human Resources Investigations Unit (HRIU) to investigate prohibited behaviors listed under Personnel Rule 1.1 including discrimination, harassment, retaliation, and workplace misconduct.

How does the HRIU investigation work?

A fair and thorough investigation will likely include interviews with the Reporter, Subject and relevant witnesses and include a review of relevant materials. The investigator will create an objective and impartial investigation report based on their findings, and provide copies to the Reporter, Subject, and the department's appointing authority. Download the HRIU Process Overview to learn about the HRIU investigations process.

How does HRIU make decisions on findings or whether to investigate a claim?

The definitions of discrimination, harassment, and retaliation are narrow and specific. Allegations by employees must meet the elements of these prohibited behaviors as outlined in Prohibited Behaviors. There can be problematic, unprofessional behavior in the workplace that may not meet Personnel Rule 1.1 standards. While it may not be discrimination, harassment, or retaliation according to these standards, it may be workplace misconduct.

What’s the difference between HRIU and the Office of the Employee Ombud (OEO)?

To understand the differences in how HRIU and OEO approach workplace concerns, review HRIU vs. OEO and download What HRIU Does to learn more about what HRIU does and doesn’t do.

Apart from HRIU, what other resources are available?

Download SHR Alternatives to Reporting to learn about other resources and alternatives to reporting to HRIU.