Sexual Harassment Prevention

Everyone deserves to work in an environment where they feel safe, respected, and able to do their job without fear of inappropriate behavior. This module explains what sexual harassment can involve, where it can happen, and how to respond.

Which statement best explains why sexual harassment prevention matters in the workplace?

View Options Again

What sexual harassment can involve

Sexual harassment is not always obvious or limited to extreme cases. It can take several forms.
Unwelcome comments, overly personal questions, gestures, or inappropriate messages and requests.
Unwanted physical contact or behavior, or failing to respect someone's personal space.
Attention that may start subtle but develops through repeated unwanted contact, inappropriate communication, or misuse of power.

Which example best reflects how sexual harassment may develop over time?

View Options Again

When intent and impact don't match

An employee notices a colleague repeatedly commenting on their appearance and making suggestive jokes in team chats. Each remark seems minor alone, but together they leave the employee dreading meetings and avoiding time alone with that person. Sexual harassment is about unwelcome behavior and its impact: the comments may be meant as friendly, but if they make someone feel uncomfortable, the effect is what counts.

Is the following statement True or False:
If a person did not intend any harm, their behavior cannot be considered sexual harassment.

View Options Again

Boundaries, settings, and who is affected

Professional relationships should remain respectful, and no one should feel they have to tolerate behavior that makes them uncomfortable or unsafe. Sexual harassment can occur face-to-face, through messages, on calls, at work-related social events, or where one person holds influence or authority over another. Anyone can be affected, and anyone can be responsible: it is not limited by role, gender, seniority, or workplace type.

Is the following statement True or False:
Sexual harassment can happen in many settings connected to work, including in person, by message, on calls, and at work-related social events.

View Options Again

What to do if something happens

If something happens, speaking up, documenting concerns, and reporting through the proper workplace channels can help stop harmful behavior early. Bystanders also play an important role: if you see something inappropriate, do not ignore it. Taking action through the appropriate channels can help protect others and support a respectful culture.

What is the most appropriate response if an employee experiences or observes possible sexual harassment?

View Options Again

Wrapping up

Preventing sexual harassment is about protecting dignity, building trust, and creating a workplace where every person feels safe, respected, and able to do their job without fear of inappropriate behavior.