Definitions for "Adverse impact"
A substantially different rate of selection in hiring, promotion or other employment decision that works to the disadvantage of a race, sex or ethnic group.
A form of illegal discrimination which occurs when a neutral policy or practice that is applied uniformly to all applicants or employees (e.g., word-of mouth recruiting, diploma requirements, intelligence tests, minimum height requirements) has the effect of denying employment or advancement to members of protected classes. Business necessity is the only justifiable reason for adverse impact.
Practices or policies that result in the selection of members of a protected class at a rate lower than that of other groups. Enforcement agencies look for a selection rate for a race, sex or ethnic group that is less than four-fifths (80 percent) of the group with the highest rate as evidence of adverse impact.
A negative consequence for the physical, social, or economic environment resulting from an action or project.