A key component in preventing harassment is having each employer develop and implement a policy which prohibits harassment in the workplace. Having such a policy in place is also an important part of an employer’s defense should a harassment complaint be filed against the employer. This policy should be separate from and in addition to a general anti-discrimination policy.
A good policy will set forth procedures that will encourage victims to come forward, that will protect confidentiality of the persons involved, that guards against retaliation, and that brings complaints to a resolution. The following elements should be included in a policy:
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The policy should be regularly and clearly communicated to all employees. It should be posted in work areas, and a copy given to each employee. The employer should sensitize all employees to the issue, by providing information and training. Supervisors and managers need to be trained about their roles in preventing harassment and about what to do if harassment happens. This training needs to be on-going, so that all new employees will have the same information. Persons designated to receive and investigate complaints need specialized training in these skills.
If you believe you may have been treated unfairly in the areas of employment, housing, education, credit or public accommodations, call: Grimes State Office Building Des Moines, IA 50319 (515) 281-4121, (800) 457-4416 515-242-5840 FAX www.state.ia.us/government/crc The Commission also provides educational materials on civil rights and discrimination, and has a video lending library. For a list of the publications and videos, visit our WebPages, or call the office. Staff members are available to make presentations on a variety of topics, including preventing harassment or conducting an internal investigation. Contact the office to make arrangements for a program or speaker. |
For additional information on harassment or other issues regarding discrimination, you may also contact any of these state agencies: (515) 281-4461, (800) 558 4427 E-mail: dhr.icsw@dhr.state.ia.us Web site: www.state.ia.us/dhr/sw DIVISION ON STATUS OF AFRICAN AMERICANS (515) 281-3855 DIVISION OF LATINO AFFAIRS (515) 281-4080 DIVISION OF PERSONS WITH DISABILITIES (515) 242-6142 The mailing address for these agencies is: %Iowa Department of Human Rights Lucas State Office Building Des Moines, Iowa 50319 FAX: (515) 242-6119 |
ICRC FactSheet
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