Workplace harassment can ruin an employee’s experience at work and even lead to legal action. Employers have a duty of care to their staff, which includes providing a safe and harassment-free environment. As an employer, it is important to take reasonable measures to discourage workplace harassment from happening in the first place.
Here, in this write-up, we will talk about 10 recommendations for preventing workplace harassment. Keep reading to learn more!
Workplace Harassment Prevention: Why it is important?
Workplace harassment can have a number of hostile impacts for both employers and workers. For employers, company harassment can cause decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, and high staff turnover rates. In some cases, workplace harassment can also cause lawful counter-measures to be taken against the company.
For employees, workplace harassment can lead to a hostile work environment, decreased job satisfaction, and even physical and mental health problems. Moreover, those who have experienced workplace harassment possibly file an employees compensation claim.
Workplace Harassment Prevention Tips for Employers
Tip #01: Educate employees about workplace harassment.
The first step in preventing organization harassment is to educate employees about what constitutes harassment and what their rights are. Employees should be aware of the company’s policy on harassment and know how to report any incidents that occur. It’s also critical to build a reporting culture where staff is comfortable stepping forward if they encounter or witness abuse.
Tip #02: Establish a clear anti-harassment policy.
The best way to prevent workplace harassment is to have a clear and concise anti-harassment policy in place. This policy should outline what types of behavior are considered harassment. And what the consequences are for violating the policy, and how employees can report any incidents. Moreover, all staff should familiar with the policy and it is must to attach employee guides and training materials.
Tip #03: Promote a culture of respect.
An organization where employees feel respected is less likely to experience harassment. Employers should foster a culture of mutual respect among employees and encourage open communication. So. employees should feel unrestricted to unleash circumstances if they undergo or glimpse any illegal conduct.
Tip #04: Implement anti-harassment training.
All employees should receive regular anti-harassment training. This training should cover the company’s policy on harassment, what constitutes harassment, and how to report any incidents. Training should also help employees identify and report signs of harassment.
Tip #05: Encourage bystander intervention.
When bystanders intervene, it can prevent workplace harassment from escalating. Employers should encourage employees to speak up if they see or hear any inappropriate behavior. Employees should be taught how to safely intervene in a situation and what to do if they feel uncomfortable or unsafe.
Tip #06: Monitor the workplace environment.
Employers should periodically monitor the workplace environment to ensure that it is free of harassment. This can be done by conducting audits, surveys, and interviews with employees. Employers should also keep an eye out for any red flags, such as excessive gossiping or tension among employees.
Tip #07: Take action if harassment occurs.
If an employee experiences or witnesses workplace harassment, it is important for the employer to take immediate action. Moreover, this includes investigating the incident, taking disciplinary action against the harasser, and providing support to the victim. Employees should also be notified of the development of the analysis.
Tip #08: Respond to complaints promptly and effectively.
Employers have to deal with criticisms of organization harassment swiftly and effectively. This includes investigating the complaint, taking action against the harasser, and providing support to the victim. Employees also should inform of the effect of the investigation.
Tip #09: Keep records of all complaints and investigations.
Employers should keep records of all complaints and investigations into workplace harassment. This information is use to track the prevalence of harassment in the organization and help identify patterns or trends. It can also be utilized as proof if a complaint is filed with HR or legal counsel.
Tip #010: Review and update your anti-harassment policy regularly.
Employers should inspect and revamp their anti-harassment approach regularly. However, this can help ensure that the policy is up-to-date and in obedience to appropriate laws. It can also assist determine any spots that may require modification.
Human rights lawyers may be able to help with developing an anti-harassment policy or investigating harassment claims.
Lastly, It’s paramount for employers to carry out actions to avert company harassment whenever possible. Therefore, we hope these tips help you prevent workplace harassment in your organization! For more information, please contact us.
