Devoted to Corporate Attorneys, Corporate Lawyers, and Corporate Counsel

The following is not meant to be legal advice.

Sometimes in a diverse workplace, people able to speak foreign languages may have a habit in speaking in their native tongues.  Co-workers fear that something critical is not being shared.

Is English the official language for the workplace?  What is the view from an employment law perspective?

In California, there is no legal requirement for employees to speak English unless there is a business need.  For example, if working at a lab that does DNA studies, the people may be required to speak English in order to prohibit mix ups in the studies. 

An employer cannot discriminate based on a person’s accent.  Compelling people to speak English may be considered discrimination based on national origin.

In areas where English is required because of business necessity, the employer may place signs restricting the area to English only.