Workplace Sexual
Harassment

Prevention of Workplace Sexual Harassment

In the modern workplace, preventing sexual harassment has become an unavoidable priority for companies committed to creating a safe and respectful workspace for all their employees. The repercussions of sexual harassment in the workplace transcend individual well-being and affect team morale, overall productivity and corporate image. According to data from the International Labor Organization (ILO), approximately 52% of women and 33% of men have experienced some form of sexual harassment at work at some point in their careers, underscoring its prevalence and severity of this problem.

Sexual harassment not only has a profound negative impact on victims, but also carries significant economic consequences for businesses. Studies indicate that organizations can incur losses in the millions due to decreased productivity, increased absenteeism, associated legal costs, and damage to corporate reputation. A recent study estimates that the average cost of sexual harassment to an organization can be more than $100,000 for each reported incident, including but not limited to compensation, legal expenses, and loss of productivity.

Diagnostic studies such as the HOSEL Inventory on the presence of workplace sexual harassment play a crucial role in identifying and understanding the prevalence and nature of harassment within an organization. They allow companies to obtain a clear picture of the situation and develop effective prevention and response strategies. Regular implementation of these surveys demonstrates the company's commitment to creating a safe work environment and can increase employee confidence in the organization's reporting and resolution mechanisms.

Efficient and accessible reporting channels are critical to a successful strategy against sexual harassment in the workplace. These channels must ensure confidentiality and protect whistleblowers from retaliation, thereby encouraging open communication and prompt corrective action. Organizations with robust reporting systems have demonstrated a superior ability to resolve harassment situations effectively, minimizing the negative impact on victims and the company.

Sexual harassment in the workplace is a complex problem that requires a multifaceted and committed response from organizations. Through implementing whistleblowing surveys and promoting effective reporting channels, companies can not only address harassment incidents more effectively, but also promote an organizational culture of respect, inclusion, and safety for all employees.

Companies that commit to combating sexual harassment stand out not only for their operational excellence, but also for their integrity and social responsibility. At VYA Consulting , we are dedicated to supporting organizations in this commitment, offering organizational research solutions tailored to prevent sexual harassment and foster a healthy and productive work environment.

The Sexual Harassment Questionnaire - HOSEL emerges as a valid and reliable diagnostic tool to measure the presence of workplace sexual harassment in both public and private companies, with demonstrated applicability in various countries. This instrument, when complemented with open questions for case reporting, significantly enriches its potential, offering companies valuable data for making informed decisions.