New duty to prevent Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Tools & Resources
Employment Rights & People ManagementFrom 26 October, the UK Government’s Worker Protection Act is in force to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. Our partner, Croner, has provided an overview of what employers need to do.
The new act brings in mandatory legal duties for employers, as opposed to the previous encouragement to take preventative measures like training. There is now a legal responsibility for employers to proactively prevent sexual harassment at work by taking “reasonable” preventative measures.
The act outlines the responsibilities that employers must uphold in taking reasonable steps to prevent instances of sexual harassment occurring. This is within their premises and also outside of the workplace, as well as during things like training days etc.
Under the new rules liability can be held against employers vicariously, even if they are unaware of the conduct. However, they can defend against this as long as they can show that they took all reasonable steps to prevent harassment.
What steps you should take now?
- Educate your staff
- Create an inclusive workplace culture and environment
- Implement regular training
- Develop workplace policy that is effectively anti-sexual harassment
- Conduct a risk assessment
- Ensure clear methods for reporting sexual harassment
For more details on each of these steps and to learn more about the new act, download Croner's guidance here. Alternatively, reach out to Croner’s Helpline today at 0844 561 8133 for expert assistance.