With the recent influx of sexual harassment claims surfacing in the media, it has become increasingly clear that sexual harassment training in the workplace is not effective. As more high-profile men and women are coming forward with allegations of sexual harassment, employers are beginning to confront the problem head-on by evaluating the training methods used to prevent sexual assault, abuse, and discrimination in the workplace.
Training Is an Obligation
For many companies and employers, sexual harassment training is regarded as a pro forma exercise, meaning that it is done merely out of obligation. Instead of taking steps to prevent sexual assault and abuse, sexual harassment training programs are conducted to limit an employer’s legal liability. Limited training and insufficient sexual harassment laws and policies have made it so that only severe or pervasive instances of workplace abuse are prohibited. As a result, many victims have been forced to remain quiet and deal with sexual discrimination, harassment, assault, and abuse as part of their position.
Many employers choose to take the easy route when enforcing a sexual harassment training program. Often, online training programs are used, making it easy for employees to zone out of the sessions entirely. In addition to insufficient programs, many employers are failing to enforce training for all employees. Employers often exempt their leaders, which creates a double standard and often allows them to abuse their power to commit acts of sexual assault. If employers are not enforcing measures against sexual harassment, sexual abuse and assault is more likely to occur quietly within the workplace.
Preventing Sexual Harassment
In 2016, the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission reported that the last three decades of sexual harassment training have been ineffective in preventing sexual discrimination, abuse, and assault in the workplace. Many employers are making a stand against sexual harassment by implementing strict training sessions and emergency safety precautions in fields where harassment is more common. Instead of online training courses, face-to-face role-playing classes can be used to enforce proper workplace behavior.
In hospitality and service sectors, employees are equipped with panic buttons as an immediate way to react to actions of sexual assault. As more victims are speaking out against sexual harassment, now is the time to make a stand. Instead of ignoring and enduring harassment in the workplace out of fear, demand immediate attention. Sexual harassment in the workplace is never okay.
Bucks County Sexual Harassment Lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. Assist Victims of Workplace Assault
If you or someone you know has experienced sexual harassment or discrimination in the workplace, you are not alone. Our experienced team of Bucks County sexual harassment lawyers at The Gold Law Firm P.C. will help you obtain the justice you deserve. With an office conveniently located in Philadelphia, we assist clients in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. Contact us online or call 215-569-1999 to schedule a free consultation.