What classifies as workplace sexual harassment?

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Incidents classifying as workplace sexual harassment can take place in a number of locations and ways. For example:

• in the workplace;

• somewhere you go to for work, such as the offices of a client;

• on a work trip;

• at a work social event;

• on social media;

• by email; and

• by telephone.

The TUC’s Still just a bit of banter? report found that over 80% of respondents who had experienced sexual harassment said that it had taken place on work premises. However, 15% said it had taken place at a work-related social event such as a Christmas party.

If a worker is harassed by email or social media by another worker, or client or service user, it may not always feel like workplace harassment and reps will need to be extra vigilant to ensure these cases do not fall through the net. Workplace policies need to make clear the consequences of any harassment that takes place via social media and other forms of technology.