anti harassment policy

An anti harassment policy is an important part of any workplace harassment prevention effort. An anti harassment policy can help prevent a hostile work environment and workplace harassment, informing employees about company policies and that sexual harassment in the workplace is not tolerated, and encouraging employees to speak up if they experience or witness any workplace harassment, and that all harassment claims will be investigated promptly and thoroughly, and appropriate disciplinary action will be taken against any individual found to have engaged in harassment or discrimination.

Anti Harassment Policy

An anti harassment policy, sexual harassment reporting procedures, investigations of hostile work environment, and corrective actions when workplace harassment is discovered are essential components of a holistic effort that employers must commit to in order to effectively put an end to harassment. All employers should have a company harassment policy that clearly states the behaviors that won’t be tolerated in the workplace and the procedures to follow pertaining to responding to and reporting workplace harassment. A study has shown that employees in workplaces without a harassment prevention policy report the highest levels of workplace harassment. Companies should employ a vigorous anti-harassment policy, train each employee on its contents on a regular basis, and actively follow through with and enforce the policy. An anti harassment policy should be written in easy to understand, simple words, in every language used by employees in the workplace.
Policy Example

Companies need to have an anti harassment policy committed to providing a safe and respectful work environment for all employees, to help prevent a hostile work environment and workplace harassment, which does not tolerate any form of harassment, discrimination or retaliation, including but not limited to: sexual harassment, verbal or physical harassment, bullying, or victimization. Incidents of workplace harassment should be reported immediately to a supervisor or the Human Resources department, who will take prompt and appropriate action to investigate and remediate the situation. A good anti harassment policy should strive for a culture of inclusivity and respect, and explain clearly that any individual who engages in abusive behavior will be subject to disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment. Employees and volunteers are encouraged to report any incidents of harassment immediately to their supervisor or the HR department. All reports should be promptly investigated and appropriate action should be taken to address the situation.

An Anti Harassment Policy Should

Explain prohibited conduct

Provide a clear description of conduct which is prohibited, which includes easy to understand examples of harassment.

Protect from retaliation

Provide assurance that any employees who complain about sexual harassment will be protected from retaliation.

Describe complaint process

An easy to understand complaint process that provides multiple, accessible channels to complain about harassment.

Protect confidentiality

Provide assurance that, to the extent possible, the company will preserve the confidentiality of harassment complaints.

Describe fair investigation

Describe the harassment complaint process that includes a quick, thorough, and fair-minded investigation.

Assure appropriate action

Provide assurance that the company will take immediate and commensurate corrective action after investigation.

An Anti Harassment Policy Is Critical For Prevention

A comprehensive anti harassment policy vigorously enforced by management, as part of a holistic sexual harassment prevention effort, is a key component for workplace harassment prevention.

Sexual Harassment Training Customized For Your Company

Tailored to your company’s needs. Include your company’s policies and procedures.