Business OS
Governance & ComplianceCompany Policies

Sexual Harassment Prevention Policy

Zero-tolerance sexual harassment prevention policy with reporting, investigation and disciplinary framework.

Updated 15d ago
harassmentpreventionconductzero-tolerance

Document Control

FieldValue
Document TitleSexual Harassment Prevention Policy
Document OwnerHuman Resources
Version1.0
Effective Date{{effective_date}}
Review CycleAnnual
ClassificationInternal Use

Purpose & Scope

Maintain a workplace free from sexual harassment by setting clear standards, providing accessible reporting channels and ensuring fair investigations.

Definitions

TermDefinition
Sexual HarassmentUnwanted conduct of a sexual nature that has the purpose or effect of violating dignity, or creating an intimidating, hostile, degrading, humiliating or offensive environment.
Quid Pro QuoConditioning employment outcomes on submission to or rejection of sexual conduct.
Hostile EnvironmentA pattern of conduct that creates an abusive working environment.

Examples (non-exhaustive)

  • Unwelcome physical contact
  • Sexual jokes, innuendo or imagery
  • Persistent unwanted advances
  • Sharing sexual content through any channel
  • Stalking or surveillance

Reporting Channels

ChannelContact
Line ManagerDirect
HR Confidential Inbox{{hr_confidential_email}}
Whistleblowing Hotline{{whistleblower_line}}
Independent Ombudsperson{{ombudsperson_contact}}

Investigation

  1. Acknowledge report within 48 hours.
  2. Assign trained investigator independent of those involved.
  3. Conduct interviews; collect and preserve evidence.
  4. Complete within {{investigation_sla}} days; extend with written justification.
  5. Issue written outcome and right of appeal.

Non-Retaliation

Retaliation against anyone who reports in good faith or participates in an investigation is itself a disciplinary offence up to and including dismissal.

Disciplinary Outcomes

SeverityIndicative Outcome
Substantiated — minorFinal written warning + training
Substantiated — seriousDismissal for gross misconduct
Malicious complaintDisciplinary action

Roles & Responsibilities

RoleResponsibility
EmployeeComply with the policy and complete required forms accurately.
Line ManagerReview, approve and document decisions in line with this policy.
HR Business PartnerProvide guidance, monitor adherence and maintain records.
Department HeadEnsure department-level compliance and resourcing.

Review Workflow

StageOwnerSLA
SubmissionEmployeeDay 0
Manager ReviewLine Manager2 business days
HR ReviewHR Business Partner3 business days
Final DecisionDepartment Head5 business days
CommunicationHRWithin 1 business day of decision

Notes

Use this space to capture additional context, attachments referenced, or any deviations from standard process. All notes form part of the official record.

Governing Law & Jurisdiction

This document is governed by the laws of {{jurisdiction}} and any disputes will be resolved in the competent courts of that jurisdiction. Where local statute or collective agreement provides more favourable terms to the employee, those terms prevail.

Confidentiality & Data Protection

All personal data captured under this document is processed in accordance with {{company_name}}'s Data Protection & Privacy Policy and applicable data-protection legislation (including GDPR/UK GDPR where relevant). Records are retained for {{retention_period}} and accessed only on a need-to-know basis.

Signatures

Signed
Date

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