e-Learning Blog

It can be difficult to come up with the right measures to take when you don't understand what kind of harassment is happening in the workplace. When educating, it is important to communicate what kind of harassment occurs in the workplace.

The three most common types of harassment in the workplace are as follows:
・Power harassment
Harassment that goes beyond the appropriate boundaries of work, using the advantage of position or human relationships
・Sexual harassment
Harassment that undermines dignity through sexually inappropriate behavior that causes discomfort to the other party
・Maternity and paternity harassment
Harassment that causes pain by engaging in unjust treatment or lack of consideration, such as dismissal or demotion, based on pregnancy, childbirth, or childcare

In addition, there are various types of harassment that can occur in the workplace, such as SOGI (sexual orientation and gender identity) harassment and alcohol-related harassment. Furthermore, there are cases where certain actions, such as a superior making sexual remarks to a subordinate, can fall under both power harassment and sexual harassment, spanning multiple types of harassment.

In addition to each overview, by explaining specific examples, the perpetrator can be prevented from thinking "my words and actions may be considered harassment", and the victim can also determine "this is harassment, so it is okay to consult" and seek appropriate help.

Providing examples such as the following can be effective in conveying the impact of harassment in the workplace and the resulting consequences.

▼Case
A case of power harassment where a superior verbally abused a subordinate occurred, causing the victim to suffer from a mental illness and have to take time off. Although it was the first offense, the perpetrator was suspended due to the severity of the damage caused.

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

Various regulations are in place regarding harassment.
・Power Harassment: Act on the Prevention of Power Harassment (Amended Labor Measures Comprehensive Promotion Act)
・Sexual Harassment: Act on Securing, Etc. of Equal Opportunity and Treatment between Men and Women in Employment
・Maternity and Paternity Harassment: Act on Securing, Etc. of Equal Opportunity and Treatment between Men and Women in Employment, Childcare and Family Care Leave Act
・Others: Labor Contract Act, Civil Code, Penal Code

Not only should we convey the message that "harassment is not acceptable", but also by informing that these actions are in violation of the law, we can raise compliance awareness and prevent its occurrence. Furthermore, knowing that victims are protected by the law makes it easier for them to seek help and advice.

Of course, even if it is not prohibited by law, harassment is not morally acceptable. However, by making it known that these actions are prohibited by law as a public announcement from the company, it is possible to demonstrate a stance of not tolerating harassment and to increase awareness of the issue for each individual.

Preventing harassment is of course important, but it is also crucial to educate on how to respond in case it does occur. Even if one has sufficient knowledge, it is meaningless if they cannot handle the situation when it actually happens.

If you are harassed, of course, even if you witness it as a third party, the shock is great and there is also anxiety when consulting. In order to smoothly resolve the problem, let's make it clear what kind of response should be taken when you or someone else realizes that they have been victimized.

Specifically, it is necessary to clearly convey where and how to consult, and what the subsequent process will be. At that time, it is important to explain in advance about potential hurdles such as whether the confidentiality of the person consulted will be protected and whether anonymous consultations are possible, which will increase the sense of security and make it easier to consult.

In addition, it is essential to provide education to employees who may receive consultations regarding harassment, such as management positions. Let's create a system that can always respond appropriately, such as creating response manuals and flows.

When conducting harassment education, 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 lead to prevention of harassment and enable appropriate handling in case of any incidents.

However, it is not easy to convey these in an easy-to-understand manner within a limited time. With Human Science's e-learning materials, all important points are covered and learning can be completed in 30 minutes.

STOP! Harassment
~Basics of Workplace Harassment~