How to Prevent Sexual Harassment in the Office

The Civil Rights Act Title VII provides protection for employees against acts of sexual harassment. Employers are mandated to provide a workplace that is safe and free from all types of gender discrimination.

Employees can file a sexual harassment complaint against co- workers/managers/employer to Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

Definition of sexual harassment

Sexual harassment is any unwelcome sexual advance that creates a hostile work environment, affecting the work performance of an employee. A sexually suggestive action or behavior that is offensive to the person is considered as sexual harassment.

Examples of sexual harassment in the workplace:

1. A manager repetitively requests for sexual favors in exchange for the employee's promotion/ raise/ security of employment.

2. A supervisor repetitively makes sexual innuendos, creating a hostile work environment

3. An employee repetitively makes demeaning comments on an employee's private parts

4. An employee touches or fondles a co-worker's private part against his/her will

5. Showing off nude pictures that offends a married employee

6. Assaults or sexist remarks on an employee

A sexual harassment complaint can be filed against a male or female co-worker, supervisor, or employer. Even male employees can file sexual harassment suit against female co-workers or managers.

However, most sexual harassment lawsuits are filed by women workers against their male superiors.

Sexual harassment can be prevented in the workplace. Proper training and implementation of discipline in the workplace can halt litigation. Here are some guidelines to consider in maintaining a sexual harassment-free workplace:

1. Implement a consistent anti-sexual harassment policy. Have the employees sign an update on the anti-sexual harassment policies of the company. Post the updated policy on the official bulletin board and make it accessible to all employees. State clearly the examples of sexual harassment actions and the penalties for such offense.

2. Conduct an annual or bi-annual training for employees. The training should include company policy on anti-sexual harassment, professional conduct in the workplace, and grievance process for complaints.

3. Train managers and supervisors on how to deal with sexual harassment complaints. Addressing a sexual harassment complaint promptly and effectively can prevent litigation. Managers and supervisors should also be well informed on sexual harassment law prohibition and its corresponding penalties. 

4. Install security cameras on office places. Monitor consistently work stations and inform employees that all office areas are screened. However, privacy rights can apply on places such as comfort rooms and dressing rooms.

Consult your Los Angeles employment lawyer to learn more on sexual harassment laws.
 

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