Sexual Harassment Training


Sexual Harassment Training

kids talking outside

When we talk about sexual harassment prevention training, we typically envision a room full of less-than-enthusiastic adults being reminded (once again) that locker-room banter isn’t acceptable at work. But what about teenage workers? Should they be included in sexual harassment prevention training?

 
Unfortunately, the answer is: yes, absolutely, more than ever.
 

Why Teens Need Sexual Harassment Prevention Training

 
The majority of teens enter the workforce in lower-wage industries such as accommodation, food services, and retail. Unfortunately, these same industries account for more than 17% of all sexual harassment claims.
 
 
Because many teens are unaware that unwanted touching and inappropriate comments are illegal. They may also be afraid of losing their job in retaliation and/or are too financially strapped (or embarrassed) to report incidents.
 
While not every sexual harassment claim rises to the level of litigation, here is a recent case that highlights the need for regular workplace prevention training for all employees.
 
 
 

What’s the Best Way to Protect Teen Workers at Work?

 
While it may sound cliché, regular training for all employees (teens and adults), as well as supervisors, is key. Your staff needs to know how to identify harassment, and they need to be familiar with your company’s anti-harassment policy and complaint procedure.
 
Kelly Marinelli, J.D., SHRM-SCP said, “Employers are kidding themselves if they think that training isn’t needed because they have not received any complaints about sexual harassment. That usually means the organization’s complaint process is not working.”
 
As part of your training, teach supervisors to thank employees for bringing complaints to their attention. Reinforce the behavior of reporting issues so harassed employees won’t be afraid to say something before a seemingly small issue becomes a bigger problem.
 

How Often Do We Have to Provide Sexual Harassment Prevention Training?

 
While there is no federal requirement, many states have individual sexual harassment prevention training requirements for both employees and supervisors. Some require employers to provide training within 6 months of being hired (or sooner for seasonal employees) and conduct annual or bi-annual training on an ongoing basis.
 
Whether or not your state has a requirement, it’s good business practice to conduct regular training to protect your employees and your company.
 
Instead of ignorantly hoping nothing happens, be proactive. Protect your teen workers, adult staff members, supervisors, and entire company by addressing the topic of sexual harassment and conducting regular training. Coach your employees on how to identify harassment and how to report any questionable situations.
 
For help with your company’s training and/or anti-harassment policies, please contact Partners HR today.

2 min read

Sexual Harassment Training

kids talking outside

When we talk about sexual harassment prevention training, we typically envision a room full of less-than-enthusiastic adults being reminded (once again) that locker-room banter isn’t acceptable at work. But what about teenage workers? Should they be included in sexual harassment prevention training?

 
Unfortunately, the answer is: yes, absolutely, more than ever.
 

Why Teens Need Sexual Harassment Prevention Training

 
The majority of teens enter the workforce in lower-wage industries such as accommodation, food services, and retail. Unfortunately, these same industries account for more than 17% of all sexual harassment claims.
 
 
Because many teens are unaware that unwanted touching and inappropriate comments are illegal. They may also be afraid of losing their job in retaliation and/or are too financially strapped (or embarrassed) to report incidents.
 
While not every sexual harassment claim rises to the level of litigation, here is a recent case that highlights the need for regular workplace prevention training for all employees.
 
 
 

What’s the Best Way to Protect Teen Workers at Work?

 
While it may sound cliché, regular training for all employees (teens and adults), as well as supervisors, is key. Your staff needs to know how to identify harassment, and they need to be familiar with your company’s anti-harassment policy and complaint procedure.
 
Kelly Marinelli, J.D., SHRM-SCP said, “Employers are kidding themselves if they think that training isn’t needed because they have not received any complaints about sexual harassment. That usually means the organization’s complaint process is not working.”
 
As part of your training, teach supervisors to thank employees for bringing complaints to their attention. Reinforce the behavior of reporting issues so harassed employees won’t be afraid to say something before a seemingly small issue becomes a bigger problem.
 

How Often Do We Have to Provide Sexual Harassment Prevention Training?

 
While there is no federal requirement, many states have individual sexual harassment prevention training requirements for both employees and supervisors. Some require employers to provide training within 6 months of being hired (or sooner for seasonal employees) and conduct annual or bi-annual training on an ongoing basis.
 
Whether or not your state has a requirement, it’s good business practice to conduct regular training to protect your employees and your company.
 
Instead of ignorantly hoping nothing happens, be proactive. Protect your teen workers, adult staff members, supervisors, and entire company by addressing the topic of sexual harassment and conducting regular training. Coach your employees on how to identify harassment and how to report any questionable situations.
 
For help with your company’s training and/or anti-harassment policies, please contact Partners HR today.