Photo by Yan Krukov from Pexels
Bullying and sexual harassment are a fact of life, and we dare not pretend they are not happening in our workplaces.
The new Code of Good Practice on harassment in the workplace was gazetted on 18 March 2022. It is required reading – employers must ensure employees and managers understand what harassment means and what to do about it.
What is it?
Much has been made about the fact that, in the new code, even an eyeroll may constitute harassment. However, in one sense, nothing has changed: harassment is still (to a large extent) defined by the receiver. Much bullying and sexual harassment is unacceptable by any standard, but when an individual says, however feebly, ‘No’ or objects to a particular act, word or conversation, it no longer matters what anyone else thinks. Continuing may be considered as harassment.
One often hears the defence: ‘I didn’t mean anything.’ ‘It was a joke.’ ‘She/he is oversensitive.’ However, such defence fails to acknowledge how the receiver experienced it, and it suggests a lack of understanding and remorse.
According to the Code’s introduction, any harassment is a form of unfair discrimination and must be eliminated. Harassment may include physical, psychological, emotional and sexual abuse as well as threatened or actual use of force or power.
What to do
It is well established that an employer may be held liable (including financially liable) for the misconduct of its employees, particularly managers.
It is critical, therefore, that employers
- have a clear policy clearly communicated.
- train staff and managers regularly.
- follow up every accusation of any form of harassment.
Cases may be difficult to prove, but none should be ignored without a thorough and documented investigation. We dare not minimise the seriousness of harassment in all its forms.
Contact Ian Webster TODAY for your policy and training needs.
Upcoming workshops
Book now for a Simply Communicate morning workshop (08h30–12h30) at the Pietermaritzburg & Midlands Chamber of Business:
An introduction to Emotional intelligence
Wednesday, 11 May 2022
Emotions drive our engagement, commitment, work ethic and other things needed in the workplace. Learn how you and your team can improve your responses and become more assertive.
Making plans happen: Strategic planning that works
Tuesday, 7 June 2022
Strategic planning fails at the execution phase. Discover how to determine what really matters and keep everyone focussed day after day.
To book, click here
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