UK: Workplace Harassment Rules Take Effect, Employers Must Take All Reasonable Steps to Prevent Sexual Harassment
The UK government announced on October 30 that millions of workers get stronger protection from sexual harassment at work from that day: employers must now take all reasonable steps to prevent sexual harassment of their staff before it occurs. The changes form part of the Employment Rights Act, which will benefit over 18 million workers.
Nearly a quarter of adults who experience sexual harassment report that it takes place in the workplace, the government said. Practical steps for employers include having a clear reporting policy and training staff on handling difficult situations.
Protections have also been strengthened for workers facing all forms of harassment from third parties, covering clients and customers as well as colleagues: a passenger harassing a bus driver, a waiter intimidated by diners, or a shop worker abused by customers can no longer be treated as part of the job.
New measures to support workplace dialogue also start the same day, with trade unions gaining strengthened rights for representatives, access to workplaces and recognition. Minister for the Future of Work Kate Dearden said no one should have to put up with sexual harassment and employers must take stronger action to protect staff. Minister for Women and Equalities Bridget Phillipson said strengthening the law to better protect women at work is an essential step in shifting attitudes.
Source: GSM · USA (original Chinese edition)
Photo: 照片：英国温布尔登的通信工人工会办公室，Tim Sheerman-Chase 摄，Wikimedia Commons，CC BY 2.0 授权 / Photo: Communications Workers Union office, Wimbledon, UK, by Tim Sheerman-Chase, Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0
