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Prevention and Reduction of Workplace Sexual Harassment policy

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Promoting a secure and inclusive workplace, this policy addresses and prevents sexual harassment while prioritising employee well-being and respect for all.

Reading time
How long to understand and implement this policy?
10 mins
Word count
How many words in this policy?
446
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What is a Prevention and Reduction of Workplace Sexual Harassment policy?

The purpose of this policy is to clearly communicate the commitment of the company to prevent and reduce workplace sexual harassment. It establishes guidelines and procedures for addressing incidents of sexual harassment and provides a framework for promoting a safe and inclusive work environment. The policy aims to:

  1. Clearly state the company's zero-tolerance stance on sexual harassment and prohibit such behaviour within the workplace.

  2. Create awareness among employees about what constitutes sexual harassment and the reporting procedures to follow.

  3. Establish preventive measures, including assessments, training programs, and a culture of respect and equality.

  4. Outline the reporting and investigation procedures to ensure that complaints are taken seriously, handled confidentially, and investigated thoroughly.

  5. Emphasise the support and remedial measures available to victims of sexual harassment, promoting their well-being and protection.

  6. Encourage compliance with the policy and outline the consequences for breaches.

  7. Commit to regular review and improvement of the policy to ensure its effectiveness and alignment with legal requirements.

The purpose of this policy is to create a work environment where all employees are treated with dignity, respect, and equality, and where sexual harassment is not tolerated. It aims to promote a positive and inclusive workplace culture that fosters the well-being and productivity of all employees.

Best practice timescale for this to be issued
When should this policy be issued?
During onboarding / after changes / planned refresher
Issued by who, to whom
Who should issue this policy, and to whom?
Internally issued to appropriate recipients in your Company
Applicable legal jurisdictions
In which jurisdictions can this policy be used?
Great Britain & NI (United Kingdom), Worldwide

What legislation and best practice guidelines have been taken into account in the development of this template?

United Kingdom

  • Equality Act 2010: Provides protection against sexual harassment and discrimination in the workplace, emphasizing the need for employers to create a harassment-free environment.

  • Health and Safety at Work Act 1974: Imposes a general duty on employers to ensure the health, safety, and welfare of employees, including psychological well-being free from harassment.

  • Employment Rights Act 1996: Protects employees against unfair treatment and dismissal, including victimization or retaliation for reporting sexual harassment.

  • Protection from Harassment Act 1997: Criminalizes harassment and provides civil remedies for victims of harassment, including sexual harassment in the workplace.

  • The Acas Code of Practice on Sexual Harassment: Offers practical guidance to employers on preventing and addressing sexual harassment in the workplace, ensuring compliance with legal obligations.

  • Data Protection Act 2018: Sets out rules and regulations for the handling and processing of personal data, including information related to harassment complaints and investigations.

  • The Health and Safety Executive (HSE) guidelines: Provides guidance on managing workplace risks, including the prevention of sexual harassment, to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.


Other territories

Consult your jurisdiction's employment legislation or labor laws to ensure compliance with the template. Review the language for local precision.

Prevention and Reduction of Workplace Sexual Harassment Policy

Overview

[Company Name] is committed to maintaining a safe and inclusive work environment that is free from all forms of sexual harassment. We acknowledge our duty to prevent and reduce incidents of sexual harassment and to provide appropriate support to those affected.

This policy outlines our commitment, responsibilities, and procedures for addressing workplace sexual harassment.

Scope

All employees, workers and third parties.

General Priciples

Prohibition of Sexual Harassment

  1. Sexual harassment in any form is strictly prohibited within our workplace, including but not limited to unwelcome advances, requests for sexual favors, verbal or written comments, gestures, or physical contact of a sexual nature.

  2. All employees, including managers, supervisors, and third parties, are expected to adhere to this policy.

Prevention Measures

  1. We will conduct regular assessments to identify and address potential risks of sexual harassment in the workplace.

  2. Clear policies, guidelines, and reporting procedures will be established and communicated to all employees.

  3. Training programs will be provided to employees to raise awareness, promote understanding, and prevent sexual harassment.

  4. We will foster a culture of respect, dignity, and equality through open communication, promoting mutual understanding, and addressing inappropriate behaviours promptly.

Reporting and Investigation

  1. We encourage all employees to report incidents or concerns of sexual harassment promptly and without fear of retaliation.

  2. Complaints should be reported to the designated person or department as outlined in our reporting procedure.

  3. All complaints will be treated seriously, confidentially, and with sensitivity.

  4. A fair and thorough investigation will be conducted, ensuring the principles of natural justice and due process.

  5. Appropriate disciplinary actions will be taken against individuals found responsible for acts of sexual harassment.

Support and Remedial Measures

  1. We are committed to providing support and assistance to victims of sexual harassment.

  2. Supportive measures may include providing counseling services, offering flexible work arrangements, or facilitating workplace changes to ensure the victim's safety and well-being.

  3. We will take necessary steps to prevent victimization and retaliation against those who report incidents or cooperate in investigations.

Review and Compliance

  1. This policy will be regularly reviewed to ensure its effectiveness and compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

  2. All employees are expected to comply with this policy. Failure to do so may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

[Company Name] is committed to continuously improving our efforts to prevent and address workplace sexual harassment. We encourage open dialogue, respect for diversity, and a shared responsibility to create a safe and inclusive work environment.

This policy [does not] form[s] part of your terms and conditions of employment.

Version: [1.0]

Issue date: [date]

Author: [name, job title]

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Prevention and Reduction of Workplace Sexual Harassment policy
prevention and reduction of workplace sexual harassment policy