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Sample Sexual Harassment Policy
[Explanatory note: This sample sexual harassment policy is intended for use by private and public
employers in the Pacific to help them develop their own sexual harassment policies. It is based on
international good practices and includes all the components which make a sexual harassment policy
comprehensive. As such, it is not intended to be a collection of clauses from which employers can pick
and choose. Instead, any effective policy must include most if not all of the content of this sample
policy. Organisations should of course modify certain clauses to meet specific conditions within their
organisations.]
The Policy Statement
[Name of Company] is committed to providing a safe environment for all its employees free from
discrimination on any ground and from harassment at work including sexual harassment. [Name of
Company] will operate a zero tolerance policy for any form of sexual harassment in the workplace,
treat all incidents seriously and promptly investigate all allegations of sexual harassment. Any person
found to have sexually harassed another will face disciplinary action, up to and including dismissal
from employment.
All complaints of sexual harassment will be taken seriously and treated with respect and in confidence.
No one will be victimised for making such a complaint.
[Explanatory note: This explains in broad terms what the policy is about and sets out the intention of
the organisation in adopting the policy.]
Definition of sexual harassment
Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature which makes a person feel offended,
humiliated and/or intimidated. It includes situations where a person is asked to engage in sexual
activity as a condition of that person’s employment, as well as situations which create an environment
which is hostile, intimidating or humiliating for the recipient.
Sexual harassment can involve one or more incidents and actions constituting harassment may be
physical, verbal and non-verbal. Examples of conduct or behaviour which constitute sexual
harassment include, but are not limited to:
Physical conduct
Unwelcome physical contact including patting, pinching, stroking, kissing, hugging,
fondling, or inappropriate touching
Physical violence, including sexual assault
Physical contact, e.g. touching, pinching
The use of job-related threats or rewards to solicit sexual favours
Verbal conduct
Comments on a worker’s appearance, age, private life, etc.
Sexual comments, stories and jokes
Sexual advances
Repeated and unwanted social invitations for dates or physical intimacy
Insults based on the sex of the worker
Condescending or paternalistic remarks