Sexual harassment remains the top priority, concern and for US employers required to be compliant with government regulations. So, how can HR executives implement best practices for anti-harassment in an organization? Although some behaviors of sexual harassment are identifiable and obvious, there are actions which appear innocent on the surface, but are indeed actions of sexual harassment and put employees as well as employers at risk.
Sexual harassment prevention training
Some states require documentation of mandatory training as often as yearly for supervisors. Sexual harassment training in the workplace enables employees to identify questionable behaviors and learn what cause of action to take if subjected to or witnessed sexual harassment in the workplace. To eliminate incidents of sexual harassment, it is imperative to educate employees on preventive measures. Check out courses such as this anti-harassment and discrimination course from Interactive Services, which effectively teaches learners how to recognize harassment and what steps to take.
Communicate clear anti-harassment policy
Seek legal counsel on your anti-harassment policy to ensure that it complies with all local, state, and federal laws. It’s best practice to ensure that the policy is in the employee handbook and every employee has a copy. It is also effective to review the policy as a team to ensure that it has been understood as well as to print out the policy and post in a commonly seen area in the office, such as a break room or restroom. Be sure to create a work culture that encourages employees to ask questions about the policy to maintain an open dialogue about ensuring a harassment-free workplace.
Define consequences
Outline clear and serious implications if sexual harassment occurs. This should be part of your company’s anti-harassment policy. Be sure to communicate consequences ahead of time and ensure that these are consistently applied when sexual harassment incidences arise.
Adopt a clear process of investigation
In the case of a sexual harassment complaint, it is imperative for management to know how to resolve the matter in the most efficient way possible. Handle each complaint seriously and act immediately; take necessary steps to ensure that this behavior stops before it persists further.
For more anti-sexual harassment training and other course offerings for your business from Interactive Services such as ethics training, data security, anti-laundering and more, visit the OpenSesame website.