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Experiencing harassment at work may be emotionally and mentally exhausting. No matter what type of harassment you are experiencing, whether it is verbal abuse, unwanted sexual advances, discrimination, or bullying, you shouldn’t have to work in those conditions. Workplaces have an obligation to provide safe and respectful spaces for every employee. Knowing your rights and following the right steps will minimise additional harm and increase the chances that justice as appropriately prescribed is ultimately served.
Identifying Harassment at Work
There are numerous forms of workplace harassment in the workplace. It can take the form of inappropriate jokes and comments, as well as physical intimidation or sexual harassment. It may be direct or indirect, verbal or non-verbal. The first important step in dealing with workplace harassment is identifying what may count as harassment. When you observe even subtle forms of disregard and exclusion, you should start to think critically about the workplace culture that is being created, which is toxic and should not be tolerated.
How to Respond: A Complete Starting Point for You
If you are facing harassment, the first step is to make a note of each occurrence—record the time, date, witnesses, and type of behaviour. Next, report the behaviour to Human Resources or your supervisor, depending on your workplace’s grievance procedures. If the grievance process is no longer helpful and/or exhausting, you may want to meet with a local labour board or an attorney for assistance.
Employee Rights and Workplace Safety Guide
If you’d like to review more about legal process and your rights, and immediately actionable safety steps to take about similar workplace issues, please refer to, Employee Rights and Workplace Safety Guide – helpful information and items to consider when dealing with similar experiences in the workplace.
About the Table
| Steps | Description |
| 1. Identify the Behaviour | Recognise if the action qualifies as harassment under workplace law. |
| 2. Record Evidence | Keep notes, emails, and witness details as proof of repeated behaviour. |
| 3. Report to HR or Management | Follow your company’s reporting protocol for complaints. |
| 4. Seek Legal Advice | Contact labour authorities or a legal expert for guidance. |
| 5. Take Care of Your Well-being | Reach out to counsellors or support groups to manage emotional stress. |
Legal Protections and Support
Employees have legal protections under laws that govern the workplace from harassment of any type, including sexual harassment, racial harassment and discriminatory harassment. If your employer does nothing in your situation, you can file a claim with the labour department or with the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC). Speaking to professionals will help you make the most informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What if HR does not respond to my complaint?
If HR does not follow up, keep a record of your communications and escalate the issue to management or a legal authority.
Q2. Can I pursue a case for verbal harassment?
Yes, verbal harassment is recognised under many workplace laws and can be pursued under the law.
Q3. What should I do to protect myself from retaliation?
Preserve all documentation, document all communications with your employer as formally as possible, and know that it is illegal to retaliate against individuals who report harassment.
