How can a company prevent sexual harassment claims?
A company can never completely prevent sexual harassment claims but it can reduce the number of claims and have notice of sexual harassment problems by training its workforce. Periodic sexual harassment training is essential and almost mandated by law. The main defenses an employer has when faced with such a claim is that it has a good sexual harassment policy, the policy has been provided to the workforce, and employees have been told how and to whom to complain. The training doesn’t have to be lengthy but should state the company’s policy, explain the types of conduct that is considered to be offensive, and clearly outline the company’s complaint procedure. Separate training should be given to supervisors, for they can create liability for the company through their conduct.
