Toolkit seeks to help employers foster workplaces where harm is 'less likely to occur'
A new toolkit aimed at helping organisations in New Zealand prevent sexual harassment in workplaces has been made available to employers.
The toolkit, launched by Gender at Work, also aims to help employers foster workplace cultures that can recognise sexual harassment early, address cases appropriately, and prevent them from escalating.
"While much of the public conversation focuses on what happens after harm occurs, prevention is possible and must be part of the solution," said Teresa Lee, a specialist at Gender at Work.
"This toolkit is about helping workplaces create respectful environments where harm is less likely to occur and provides practical tools to intervene much earlier."
The toolkit's key feature is a "practical traffic light framework" that can help organisations identify acceptable and inappropriate behaviours at work.
"The framework can help employers and employees start conversations about what is acceptable behaviour and what is inappropriate and could contribute to a disrespectful environment where harmful behaviour is more likely," said Lamorna Walsh, a manager at Gender at Work.
"Even when something doesn't breach a policy or meet a legal threshold, it can still undermine trust, safety, and inclusion. Prevention means recognising those early warning signs and responding before harm occurs."
Additionally, the toolkit also provides employers with practical handouts about various topics, including sexual harassment policies, communication tips, risk assessment checklists, and responding to disclosures. There are also topics about:
An editable continuum of behaviours framework
- Myths and misconceptions
- Training providers
- Specialist support services
- Bystander intervention
Cases of sexual harassment at work
The new toolkit comes amid allegations of sexual harassment involving prominent business leaders in the country, sparking renewed conversations about harassment, accountability, and workplace safety.
Research cited in the toolkit also revealed that between 21% and 41% of employees report experiencing at least one form of sexual harassment over a five-year period.
Employees of all genders, ages, ethnicities, sexualities, abilities, and levels of seniority are affected by sexual harassment, but most incidents are never reported.
According to the toolkit, 29% of workers say they are negatively affected by harassment and do not tell anyone.
"We know there is no single policy or training session that can eliminate sexual harassment," Lee said. "But we also know prevention is possible when organisations commit to creating cultures of respect, accountability, and safety. Everyone deserves to feel safe at work."
