e-Learning Blog

If you do not understand what kind of harassment occurs in the workplace, it will be difficult to take appropriate measures. When providing education, it is important to convey what types of harassment can occur in the workplace.

The three types of harassment commonly seen in the workplace are as follows:
・Power harassment
Harassment that exceeds the appropriate range in work by utilizing superiority in terms of position or interpersonal relationships.
・Sexual harassment
Harassment that undermines dignity through sexual behavior that causes discomfort against the will of the other party.
・Maternity and paternity harassment
Harassment that causes pain by engaging in unfair treatment or lack of consideration, such as dismissal or demotion, due to pregnancy, childbirth, or childcare.

In addition, various types of harassment can occur in the workplace, such as SOGI (Sexual Orientation and Gender Identity) harassment related to sexual orientation and gender identity, and alcohol harassment related to alcohol. Furthermore, it is not uncommon for certain behaviors, such as a superior making sexual remarks to a subordinate, to fall under multiple categories, including power harassment and sexual harassment.

In addition to explaining the overview of each case with specific examples, the perpetrator may reconsider their actions by thinking, "My behavior might be considered harassment," and the victim can determine, "This is harassment, so it's okay to seek advice," allowing them to appropriately ask for help.

Presenting examples such as the ones below can effectively communicate the impact of harassment on the workplace and the resulting consequences that may occur.

▼Case Study
A power harassment incident occurred where a superior verbally abused a subordinate, leading the victim to suffer from a mental illness and necessitating a leave of absence. Although it was the perpetrator's first offense, the damage was significant, resulting in a suspension for the offender.

Creating an environment where harassment does not occur requires a deep understanding of harassment.

＞Related Services: Harassment Training through e-Learning - Basic Knowledge of Workplace Harassment

Various legal regulations are in place regarding harassment.
・Power Harassment: Power Harassment Prevention Law (Revised Comprehensive Promotion Law for Labor Policy)
・Sexual Harassment: Equal Employment Opportunity Law for Men and Women
・Maternity and Paternity Harassment: Equal Employment Opportunity Law for Men and Women, Childcare and Family Care Leave Law
・Others: Labor Contract Law, Civil Code, Criminal Law

Not only by conveying that "harassment is unacceptable," but also by informing that these actions are in violation of the law, we can enhance compliance awareness and contribute to the prevention of occurrences. Furthermore, victims will understand that they are protected by law, making it easier for them to seek consultation and support.

Of course, even if it is not prohibited by law, harassment is not morally acceptable. However, by making it known as a legally prohibited act in the company's official announcements, we can demonstrate a stance against harassment and encourage everyone to have a greater sense of crisis.

While it is certainly important to prevent harassment, it is also crucial to educate on how to respond in the event that it does occur. Even if one has sufficient knowledge, it is meaningless if they cannot respond when it actually happens.

If you have been harassed, or if you witnessed it as a third party, the shock is significant, and there may be anxiety when seeking advice. To facilitate a smooth resolution of the issue, let's clearly inform how to respond when you realize that you have been a victim or that someone else is a victim.

Specifically, it is necessary to clearly communicate where and how to seek advice, as well as what the subsequent process will be. At that time, explaining in advance about potential hurdles, such as whether the confidentiality of the person seeking advice will be maintained and whether anonymous consultations are possible, will increase the sense of security and make it easier to seek advice.

Additionally, it is essential to provide training for employees who may receive harassment complaints, such as management staff. Let's establish a system that allows for appropriate responses at all times, such as creating response manuals and workflows.

When conducting harassment training, it is important to cover three key points: "What types of harassment can occur in the workplace," "Laws related to harassment," and "What to do if you experience or notice harassment." This will help prevent harassment and ensure that appropriate measures can be taken in case it does occur.

That said, conveying these clearly within a limited time is not easy. The e-learning materials from Human Science cover the key points and can be learned in 30 minutes.

＞Related Services: Harassment Training through e-Learning - Basic Knowledge of Workplace Harassment