All state government employees in New Jersey must take a certified sexual harassment training course within six months of employment and a refresher course every two years. Although this training is not mandatory for private sector employees, courts will consider whether or not an employer made training available when determining if an employer was negligent in preventing sexual harassment.
Whether you are an employer looking to implement a sexual harassment training program or an employee who has experienced workplace harassment, turn to Castronovo & McKinney, LLC. Our firm advises businesses throughout New Jersey on how to prevent sexual harassment and helps employees fight back against harassment. Above all, we are committed to helping employers and employees create a positive business culture. Contact our office today to consult with an experienced sexual harassment attorney.
About Sexual Harassment in New Jersey
Sexual harassment is a form of unlawful sex-based discrimination under federal and state law.
According to the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC), sexual harassment includes “unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical harassment of a sexual nature.”
There are two types of harassment: quid pro quo harassment and hostile work environment. Quid pro quo harassment occurs when a supervisor or another authority figure makes unwanted sexual demands in exchange for a benefit of employment (e.g. job offer, raise, promotion). In addition, unwanted comments or conduct of a sexual nature by anyone in the workplace that interfere with an employee’s ability to perform their job constitute a hostile work environment.
Some common types of sexual harassment in the workplace include:
- Making repeated unwanted sexual advances
- Making sexual jokes or offensive remarks or gestures
- Sending sexually suggestive text messages, emails, or other communications
- Asking an employee or coworker about their sex life
- Making offensive comments about a person’s gender, sexual orientation, or gender identity
If you have experienced sexual harassment in your workplace, you need the powerful representation our firm provides. When you meet with us, we will explain your rights and explore all your options for obtaining compensation.
Why Sexual Harassment Training Matters
Given the rise of the #MeToo movement, preventing sexual harassment is more important today than ever. Unwanted sexual advances, gestures, and comments can negatively impact employees, decrease productivity, and pose a significant liability for employers.
Sexual harassment training involves educating supervisors, managers, and employees on how to conduct themselves at work and equipping them with the tools and knowledge to identify and report workplace harassment. Sexual harassment can help employees recognize and stop behavior that violates their dignity, privacy, and well-being. Such training is also crucial for managers and supervisors since they can be held accountable for failing to take corrective action.
Though anti-harassment training is not required in private businesses, all employers must provide employees with a work environment free from sexual harassment. An employer that knows or reasonably should have known about workplace harassment may be held liable. By working with an experienced New Jersey sexual harassment attorney, you can prevent harassment at your company, provide employees with a safe, respectful workplace, and avoid costly lawsuits.
What Is Covered During Sexual Harassment Training?
Anti-harassment training courses cover applicable federal and state sexual harassment laws, including Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the New Jersey Law Against Discrimination, how these laws relate to the workplace, what constitutes harassment and discrimination, and company policies about sexual harassment.
Sexual harassment training courses typically use interactive content and mock scenarios to help employees understand the difference between appropriate and inappropriate conduct in the workplace. Other topics covered during sexual harassment include:
- Ethics and compliance
- Types of sexual harassment (e.g. quid pro quo, hostile work environment)
- Examples of sexual harassment
- How an employer can prevent harassment and discrimination
- What an employee who experiences or witnesses sexual harassment should do
Different programs are available for employees and managers. Sexual harassment training for managers typically covers what they should do if an employee complains about harassment, how to respond professionally, and how to investigate and document the complaint.
Ultimately, providing sexual harassment training to all employees can benefit any organization. That’s where Castronovo & McKinney can assist you. Our attorneys are well-versed in the applicable statutes and case law on sexual harassment and can help you establish policies and procedures to prevent harassment at your company.
Contact Our Experienced New Jersey Sexual Harassment Attorney
At Castronovo & McKinney, we believe there should be zero tolerance for sexual harassment in the workplace. Whether your company needs advice on preventing harassment or you have experienced sexual harassment, you can trust our firm to protect your rights and interests. Contact our office today to schedule a consultation.