The Employee Investigations Unit, is responsible for ensuring DSHS complies with federal and state laws and regulations related to civil rights and discrimination against national origin, race, color, language, sex, gender, religion, age, disability, and other protected classes in the workplace.
Notice: In the event you are concerned for your safety in the workplace, DSHS may be able to develop a Safety Plan to address your concerns. Should you wish to receive more information about what this involves, please reach out to your Administration’s assigned Human Resources Business Partner for further discussion.
How to File a Complaint
If you are a DSHS employee and feel you have been discriminated against in the workplace, you may file a complaint by:
- Completing this form and returning it via email to: IRAUComplaints@dshs.wa.gov.
- Contacting your HR Representative.
- Contacting us using one of the contact methods provided below.
Investigation Process
During an investigation, the claimant and respondent both have the opportunity to present evidence. The investigation may include interviews with witnesses and analysis of documents.
Step 1: Initial Complaint Submitted
Step 2: Complete Complaint Request
Step 3: Case Reviewed
Step 4: Case Accepted – Parties Notified or
Step 4: Case Not Accepted – Parties Notified
Step 5: Case Accepted – Investigator Contacts Complainant or
Step 5: Case Not Accepted – Case Returned to Administration
Step 6: Case Accepted – Interviewing and Fact-finding Occur
Step 7: Investigation Report 18.66 Substantiated or
Step 7: Investigation Report 18.66 Unsubstantiated
Step 8: Case Returned to Administration
DSHS Administrative Policy No. 18.66 Discrimination, Harassment and other Inappropriate Behaviors
Contact Information
Email: IRAUComplaints@DSHS.WA.Gov
Mailing Address:
DSHS HRD Employee Relations
PO Box 45830
Olympia, WA 98504-5830
Fax: 360-902-7540
Phone: 800-737-0617 Option 5
TTY / TDD users dial 711 or 1-800-833-6384 for Washington Relay Service