16 Mar New Code of Practice on Sexual Harassment & Harassment at Work

An updated statutory Code of Practice on Sexual Harassment and Harassment at Work was published last week by the Irish Human Rights and Equality Commission.

The Code of Practice on Sexual Harassment and Harassment at Work sets out what is meant by employment-related sexual harassment and harassment and outlines how it can be prevented.

The Code also details the necessary steps to ensure that organisations are ready to deal appropriately with harassment and to prevent it from happening again and what type of complaints procedure must be made available to employees.

Whilst the new Code does not impose a strict legal obligation on employers, it is legally admissible in evidence in proceedings before the courts, the Workplace Relations Commission and the Labour Court, and employers should adhere to it’s provisions in order to promote a respectful and harassment free workplace for all, as well as having available appropriate means to defend claims that may arise.