Harassment policies set out an institution’s rules on behavior, including restrictions on inappropriate behavior, consequences of violating rules, and ways to report harassment. Sexual harassment is addressed, and policies ensure fair treatment and protection against retaliation for reporting violations.
A harassment policy is a code created by an institution that sets out that institution’s rules regarding behavior. Generally, a harassment policy will include restrictions on acting inappropriately toward another person in the institution and will detail the consequences of violating these rules. Harassment policies are common in companies, universities, and other sizeable organizations.
Harassment is generally considered to be any behavior that upsets or threatens another person. This could include teasing, bullying, or constantly interfering with another person. Harassment of this type can be conducted in person or by electronic means such as phone calls or emails. While harassment policies may vary between different organisations, countries and cultures, they are generally in place to ensure that all members of an organization are treated fairly.
A key element of harassment policies is addressing sexual harassment. Sexual harassment consists of persistent sexual advances or inappropriate and unwanted sexual discussions. Especially when committed by a boss or other in authority, sexual harassment in the workplace is considered unethical and, in many cases, illegal.
A harassment policy defines what is considered appropriate or inappropriate within that organization. In a corporation, this policy will apply to all employees and any other workers. In a school, it will apply to students, faculty, and staff. Most organizations will require their members to read and sign a copy of the harassment policy and thereby agree to abide by it. Some companies require their employees to complete tests or workshops that familiarize them with the company’s harassment policy.
The other main point of a harassment policy is to describe the actions to be taken if the policy is breached. This includes ways for members of an organization to report harassment and the steps that will be taken to ensure the complaint is handled fairly. The policy will also describe the consequences of the breach.
An important aspect of a harassment policy is ensuring that anyone who reports a potential violation of the policy is not subject to retaliation. Organizations often allow anonymous or secret reporting. At most companies, the director or human resources manager handles complaints in accordance with the harassment policy.
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