Medical Device Component Manufacturer Settles Age-Based Discrimination Claim for $460,000

A Swiss-based medical device component manufacturer has settled an age-based discrimination lawsuit for $460,000. Fischer Connectors was sued for age bias, including replacing older workers with younger, less-qualified candidates, forcing out older upper management workers and more.

Case background

Fischer Connectors makes circular connectors used in medical devices. The EEOC sued the company for age-based discrimination after they fired a human resources director who raised questions over plans to replace their older workers with a younger workforce. The employee was replaced with two younger workers.

The HR director reported that the CEO made age-related discriminatory comments about employees. They also tried to force out older workers through job eliminations, and made a policy of replacing the older team members with less-qualified younger candidates.

The EEOC alleged that Fischer Connectors violated the Age Discrimination in Employment Act (ADEA), which protects workers 40 and older. The ADEA prevents employers from age-related hiring, firing, job assignment, promotion, wage, layoffs and training or benefits. Clearly, Fischer Connectors’ plan to replace their older workers—along with the CEO’s discriminatory comments—violated ADEA protections.

As a result, Fischer Connectors has been ordered to pay a $460,000 settlement. They are also required to train U.S.-based employees and managers on their rights under the ADEA. Fischer Connectors must also post federal anti-discrimination and employee rights signage on site. Finally, the EEOC will oversee its future ADEA discrimination complaints.

If you’ve experienced age or other types of discrimination at your workplace, you can take action against your employer. Age discrimination is just one type of illegal employment bias. Call a knowledgeable whistleblower attorney at Kardell Law Group today to get started.