Preventing Workplace Harassment

Workplace harassment creates a hostile environment that affects employee wellbeing, productivity, and organizational culture. Everyone has a role in preventing harassment and maintaining a respectful workplace. **What Is Workplace Harassment?** Harassment includes unwelcome conduct based on protected characteristics such as: - Race, color, or national origin - Sex, gender, or sexual orientation - Religion - Age - Disability - Other protected categories under local law **Types of Harassment** - **Verbal**: Offensive jokes, slurs, insults, or comments - **Physical**: Unwanted touching, assault, or intimidation - **Visual**: Offensive images, posters, emails, or gestures - **Sexual harassment**: Unwelcome sexual advances or requests - **Bullying**: Repeated mistreatment intended to intimidate or humiliate **Creating a Respectful Workplace** - Treat all colleagues with dignity and respect - Be aware that impact matters more than intent - Speak up when you witness inappropriate behavior - Listen and take complaints seriously - Model professional behavior in all interactions **What to Do If You Experience Harassment** 1. Document incidents with dates, times, and witnesses 2. Report to your supervisor, HR, or through established channels 3. Follow your organization's complaint procedures 4. Know that retaliation against those who report is prohibited Organizations should have clear policies and reporting mechanisms in place.