Sexual Harassment in the Workplace

Employers in Saskatchewan have a responsibility to ensure a harassment-free workplace. By law, an employer must:

  • Develop and implement a written harassment policy that meets the requirements of the law.
  • Ensure workers are not exposed to harassment in the workplace. This may include harassment occurring outside of regular work hours and locations (employer-sponsored social events).

What is sexual harassment?

Sexual harassment is a workplace hazard. It is defined as, “unwarranted sexual conduct that interferes with rights guaranteed by The Saskatchewan Human Rights Code.”

As an employer, it is your duty to ensure that your employees are not subject to, or participate in, violence or harassment in the workplace.

Employer responsibility for sexual harassment in the workplace

It’s up to employers to provide a discrimination-free workplace. Whether you are aware of sexual harassment or not, employers are responsible for the actions of management and supervisors. This extends to harassment by non-supervisory personnel in some instances. If an employee harasses another employee, and you know about it but don’t intervene, you may also be at fault.

As an employer, your duty is to:

  • Protect your employees’ mental and physical health with a violence and harassment policy.
  • Review and revise, if necessary, your policy at least every year.
  • Provide competent supervisors and training to your staff.
  • Investigate any employee complaints of violence or harassment in the workplace.
  • Take appropriate actions to ensure your employees are safe from violence and harassment at work, including treatment for anyone harmed

Are you concerned about handling sexual harassment in the workplace? Start by reviewing your workplace policy and revising any documentation to properly address violence and harassment at work. Provide the policy in writing to employees to use as a management tool and reference point to handle related situations at work.

Don’t wait for sexual harassment in the workplace to happen. Call for advice.

Employer Line is dedicated to supporting small business owners with advice on all employment-related and HR matters. Our free employer helpline is available to help address your concerns right away. Don’t wait for a situation involving sexual harassment between employees to get worse. Call us today:   1-888-219-8767.