Learn how this US federal commission oversees the fair and equal treatment of all employees in all organizations. These guidelines are a cornerstone in the development of sexual harassment prevention.
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is a United States federal agency that works to end workplace discrimination, and has set forth various guidelines on the circumstances of sexual harassment. These circumstances state that the harasser can be anyone: a co-worker, subordinate, manager or top executive. The harasser is also not restricted by gender, nor is the situation excusable in same-sex situations. A victim is not only the person directly affected by the harassment, but also any individual of whom has heard or observed the action and has become personally offended by it. Additionally, the harasser’s behavior must be unwelcome for the situation to be deemed sexual harassment. These guidelines are an important part of sexual harassment training, and should be included in the course materials.
“Gray Areas” in the realm of sexual harassment include those situations where a clear example of sexual harassment may or may not be seen, or are unclear. These situations may include office romance, interoffice dating, complements, physical contact (such as hugging), inappropriate attire and other discreet situations. Trainees should be taught the line between what is acceptable and what is not, through he company’s corporate policy and code of conduct. As always, corporate integrity and professionalism hold the highest regard in these situations. What may even considered to be “possibly inappropriate” should be avoided at all costs.
This final yet important part of sexual harassment training advocates the reporting of a sexual harassment incident – either by the victim, or as a witness. The company’s human resources department or representative is the ideal contact for these situations. Trainees are encouraged to first encourage the victim to report the incident themselves before getting involved. All participants should be reassured that the reporting and investigation process is strictly confidential by law.
Tags: harassment
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