Sexual harassment in the workplace is not merely unacceptable. It is also unlawful. Sexual harassment can make working conditions uncomfortable and, in some cases, carry severe or even deadly consequences. To stay in compliance with federal and state laws businesses must provide the proper HR Services and be proactive in preventing sexual harassment in the workplace. Sexual harassment prevention training has moved to the forefront as one of the most important HR compliance needs.
What Exactly Is Sexual Harassment Education?
Sexual harassment training defines the many nuances of sexual harassment, the applicable laws and compliance requirements, and examples of workplace conduct that are suitable as opposed to inappropriate.
Each state (and some individual cities such as New York) sets forth its own set of rules in compliance with federal law. By providing such training employers can ensure proper adherence to U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (OSHA) regulations, the Civil Rights Act, and other federal and state laws.
What Is Included In Sexual Harassment Training?
Typically, these programs begin by identifying the sexual harassment legislation applicable to a given employer. Training programs use real-world scenarios and engaging course content to teach employees the many nuances between acceptable and unacceptable workplace behaviors. Managers receive training on procedures to follow when an employee files a complaint as well as how to evaluate and document their findings. Employers who need to establish company-specific sexual harassment policies may find guidance in certain training programs. Employees can take the courses online or in-person. As organizations increasingly work with remote teams, the accessibility of virtual programs is a major advantage.
Benefits of Sexual Harassment Prevention Training
● A more secure and comfortable workplace for all
o Sexual harassment in its many nuanced forms can cause stress at work and can contribute to a toxic, dangerous work environment. Through proper training employers can significantly minimize the discomfort and fear caused by sexual harassment, ensuring a safe work environment.
● Diminished threats to compliance
o Companies that fail to address sexual harassment run the danger of facing costly legal, financial, and professional repercussions. Sexual harassment prevention training delivered by HR Services ensures a business remains in compliance with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, OSHA, and any other state and local requirements, thus mitigating the substantial negative effects of sexual harassment in the workplace.
● Improved workplace morale
o Training, especially in group settings (whether virtual or in-person), strengthens corporate culture and improves team dynamics. When everyone receives the same training employees are encouraged by their organization’s principles, goals, and values and made confident in their employer’s commitment to a safe and positive work environment.
Having regular and effective sexual harassment prevention training delivered by HR Services can help employers avoid financial and legal ramifications in the future. Employee education and empowerment are two of the many additional benefits of HR compliance training. This helps create a strong workplace culture in which everyone understands what is expected, what will never be tolerated, and where everyone feels supported and able to safely do their jobs.
