Sexual harassment at work is a serious issue that affects countless individuals, yet it often goes unspoken or overlooked. Whether it’s subtle comments, inappropriate behavior, or more overt actions, sexual harassment can create a toxic work environment that undermines both personal dignity and professional growth.
According to the National Sexual Violence Resource Center, 38% of all women and 14% of men have reported experiencing sexual harassment at work.
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Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC)
The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission is a federal agency that enforces the sexual discrimination provisions of the Civil Rights Act Title 7. The EEOC aims to promote equal opportunity in the workplace. This agency covers most employers with at least 15 employees and most labor unions and employment agencies.
Harassment Activities
There are several kinds of activities that constitute sexual harassment, including:
- Unwanted touching or inappropriate comments
- Asking for sex in exchange for something, such as a job promotion or raise
- Repeatedly asking for dates and refusing to take “no” for an answer
- Posting or sharing sexual pictures, including online
- Making sexual jokes
- Bullying based on sex or gender
- And, spreading sexual gossip or rumors
Legislation
Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits employers from discriminating based on sex, race, ethnicity, national origin, and religion. It also prohibits unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other forms of verbal/physical sexual harassment. If the risk of physical violence and injury stemming from the sexual harassment is significant enough to be considered a “recognized hazard,” the employer is compelled to take action to minimize the risk.
In addition to the federal standards outlined by the EEOC, many states have enacted laws that exceed federal regulations. It is important to be aware of any state or local laws within your work area.
Currently, there are no specific federal workplace safety and health standards to address problems of sexual harassment. However, OSHA can cite employers on sexual harassment cases under the General Duty Clause of the OSH Act.
Safety Steps
As an employer, you can take safety steps to get ahead of sexual harassment issues and create a safe working environment for your employees. Safety steps may include:
- Develop and maintain anti-harassment policies and effectively communicate them to your employees
- Foster a culture of open communication to ensure employees are not afraid to come forward
- Foster a workplace culture that makes it clear that harassment of any kind is not tolerated and will be dealt with decisively
- Train supervisors on how to respond effectively
- And, provide training to ensure particularly vulnerable workers understand their employment rights
Reduce Risks
There are a few ways to keep yourself safe at work, including:
- Know what constitutes sexual harassment: Understand what sexual harassment looks like and what legal rights you have
- Set clear boundaries: Communicate your boundaries ; if someone makes you feel uncomfortable, set boundaries
- Document everything: Keep records of any incidents of harassment; dates, times, locations, and individuals involved
- Use company resources: Familiarize yourself with your employer’s harassment policies and procedures
- Seek support: Talk to trusted individuals or groups, including your employer(s), supervisor(s), coworker(s), or HR member(s)
- And, report harassment: If behaviors or incidents worsen, report the harassment according to your company’s reporting policies
Safety Plan
If a harassment incident is occurring, create a safety plan. When creating a safety plan, consider:
- Who to call when you need help: Alert people you trust about concerns; call 911 if you are in immediate danger
- Safe places: Determine places where you will be safe if an incident occurs. Consider how you will get out of the dangerous place and how you’ll reach a safe place
- Important things to keep on yourself: This may include a cell phone, phone charger, a wallet, keys, etc.
- Daily routine changes: If a harassment incident is occurring, the perpetrator may know your schedule. Try new routes, where you eat, where you park at work, etc.
- And, the buddy system: Find someone you trust at work that you can spend time with in the workplace or during breaks
Resources
The National Sexual Violence Resource Center provides resources for sexual harassment and resources for survivors.
JJ Safety provides safety meetings, safety programs, and online safety training on sexual harassment and workplace violence topics.
The U.S. Department of State provides a webpage titled “Sexual Harassment Policy.”
The U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission provides a webpage titled “Sexual Harassment.”
Conclusion
Sexual harassment in the workplace is a serious issue that affects the well-being and productivity of employees, and it’s essential that we all work together to create a safe and respectful environment. By understanding what constitutes harassment, knowing your rights, and speaking up when necessary, you can take steps to protect yourself and others.