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Opening the office door should never be something that causes you anxiety. Unfortunately millions of people worldwide are subjected to unwanted behaviour at work including being bullied, threatened or workplace harassment. Although many do not speak out due to fear of losing income or not being believed, you can safely report harassment. Increasingly more countries have laws in place to protect you. Below shows how you can report workplace harassment.
Reporting harassment in the workplace
Record every incident. This should include the date, time, where it happened, exact words used and any witnesses.
•Keep any evidence (e-mails, messages, screenshots) in a secure place that you have chosen.
•Look at your company’s policy on what to do.
•Usually this will be reporting to HR or your manager.
•Send a written report. Ask for a written response.
If the person causing harm is your boss or the company refuses to take any action then you can report this externally. Contact a labour office, ombudsman service, equality body or trade union. For example in the United States you can report to the EEOC. Usually this needs to be done within 180 days but can be up to 300 days in some areas. Time limits can vary depending on the country so check when your deadline is.
Legal Protections
ILO Convention 190 became the first international agreement to recognise that everyone’s right to a safe working environment free from violence and harassment. This means that any country that ratifies this convention must make laws in place and provide victims with a way to seek justice. Many countries also have their own laws in place such as Title VII (US) and POSH Act (India).
Importantly, you cannot be punished by your employer if you are making a genuine report. You cannot be demoted, fired, have your hours reduced or threatened due to making a report. This should not happen however if it does then make a note of it as a new incident and report this.
Contact your local legal aid clinic, union or government helpline to find out exactly how this works in your area. Often this will be free of charge. Speaking up is not a weakness and will help create a safer workplace for everyone.
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