Harassment or Bullying in the Workplace

Both employers and employees have a duty of care towards others in the workplace.

Employers have a duty under occupational health and safety legislation to prevent bullying and harassment. Similarly workers who bully or victimise their colleagues fail in their duty to care for the health and safety of others. Failure to observe this duty of care can result in large fines or potential imprisonment. Harassment in the workplace can also be of a sexual nature and is subject to similar penalties. Sexual harassment occurs when a person is the subject of unwelcome sexual advances or conduct of a sexual nature (such as exposure to sexually explicit material or suggestive jokes) likely to cause offence, humiliation or intimidation.

If you are or have been bullied or harassed at work, or believe it may be happening to others, seek professional advice as soon as you can. Turner Freeman has extensive experience in matters involving sexual harassment, workplace bullying and victimisation. We will help resolve such matters promptly and effectively to ensure a civil workplace for all.