SafetyAugust 28, 2023|5 min read
POSH – The Mechanism of Addressing Sexual Harassment
In today’s ever-changing work landscape, the top priority is creating a secure and respectful environment. Addressing sexual harassment requires a multifaceted response that goes beyond just recognizing the issue. This article explores the essential mechanics that are crucial for prevention and resolution. By shedding light on these aspects, we unveil a holistic approach guided by laws and organizational responsibilities. Let’s dive into these critical mechanisms to eradicate harassment, promote accountability, and nurture respectful workplaces.
Defining Sexual Harassment
At its core, sexual harassment involves unwelcome and inappropriate sexual behavior that creates a hostile or offensive environment for an individual. It includes actions, comments, gestures, or advances that target a person based on their sex and disrupts their work or education. Sexual harassment can take various forms, from verbal to physical, and it can happen in workplaces, educational institutions, public spaces, or online platforms.
Essential Measures by PoSH Against Sexual Harassment
1. IC Committee
PoSH laws clearly define sexual harassment and the actions that constitute it. All Indian companies are required to create procedures to address sexual harassment. This includes forming Internal Complaints Committees (ICCs) that handle complaints from employees in a fair and unbiased way.
2. Employee Training and Awareness
PoSH laws stress the importance of training and raising awareness among employees. These sessions educate employees about what constitutes sexual harassment, how to prevent it, and how to report incidents. By spreading knowledge and creating awareness, organizations actively combat harassment.
3. Effective Complaint Mechanisms
PoSH-compliant companies have well-structured complaint mechanisms in place. These systems offer employees a formal way to report harassment incidents. A clear and accessible reporting process is essential for ensuring employee safety.
4. Thorough Investigation Process
Filing a harassment complaint triggers a comprehensive investigation by the ICC. The laws detail the steps to follow during the investigation and the actions to take if there’s substantial evidence against the harasser.
5. Protecting Whistleblowers and Legal Consequences
To strengthen the system, organizations can enhance PoSH laws to safeguard whistleblowers. These laws should also outline consequences for non-compliance. Companies not adhering to the laws might face penalties or fines.
Annual Reporting and Mandatory Compliance
Beyond the basics of addressing harassment, the role of the Internal Committee (IC) and their continuous training are crucial. Regular IC training sessions keep members updated on evolving harassment issues and resolutions.
A core element of the PoSH framework is the mandatory annual report. This report reflects an organization’s commitment to eradicating harassment. Submitted to the District Welfare Officer by January 31 each year, the report outlines the previous year’s efforts in preventing and addressing sexual harassment.
The annual report isn’t a formality but a legal duty, underscoring an organization’s dedication to a harassment-free environment. Along with IC training, it reinforces the commitment to respectful workplaces where everyone feels safe and valued.
Empowering Through the I’m Safe App
In the pursuit of progress, the I’m Safe App stands out. It offers portals for organizations to protect employees from harassment and comply with the law. Through the app, employees can register complaints, and ICC members can communicate and resolve issues through web portals. The platform empowers users to view previous complaints, lodge new ones, and resolve matters efficiently. This innovative approach signifies a step forward in creating safe workplaces and ensuring respect and dignity for all.
PoSH laws cover various aspects that organizations must consider when addressing sexual harassment. By comprehensively defining harassment, implementing key measures, providing training, setting up effective complaint mechanisms, conducting thorough investigations, and enforcing legal consequences, these laws aim to create safe and respectful workplaces. Recognizing the comprehensive approach needed to eradicate harassment empowers individuals to thrive.
Check out the next blog to know more about who is the complainant and respondent, and their responsibilities under POSH.