Sexual Harassment Training for Supervisors

Sexual harassment claims can be expensive for an employer to settle. Many employers are willing to settle an unfounded claim of sexual harassment to avoid the risk of a trial. Some states require employers to provide sexual harassment training for supervisors.

Definition

It is essential for supervisors to identify different forms of sexual harassment. Sexual harassment is unwelcome sexual conduct of a physical, verbal or visual nature. It must be pervasive and it must adversely affect working conditions. The victim must clearly state that the conduct is unwelcome for it to quality as sexual harassment. Employers are generally responsible for the misconduct of their employees, even when the employer is unaware of the conduct.

Training

Supervisors should be trained to provide information to employees on sexual harassment according to state and federal laws. Supervisors must distribute the company's policy on sexual harassment, typically as an employee handbook. They usually must post the rules of conduct in the workplace where they are easily visible, such as a break room or cafeteria. State laws may specify the length and frequency of sexual harassment training for supervisors.

Duties

Supervisors must receive training on performing prompt investigations of sexual harassment allegations. This is essential to prevent the loss of morale that an unresolved allegation can cause. This includes the procedure for informing upper management of complaints regarding sexual harassment. Supervisors must be trained to refrain from promising confidentiality because they may be required to report the allegation.