Publish date: 19.06.2024
Addressing violence and harassment in the workplace according to the International Congress on Occupational Hygiene
There is no doubt that the workplace should be the ornament of any organization. It is where we spend most of our time and try our best to perform our duties. Unfortunately, there are still situations that appallingly diminish our comfort at work and adversely affect our well-being. Violence and harassment in the workplace are serious problems that require immediate intervention. In this article, we will discuss what measures the International Congress on Occupational Hygiene envisions to counter these negative phenomena.
Definition of violence and harassment in the workplace
Before we move on to discuss specific measures, it is worth defining the terms involved. Workplace violence includes any form of physical, verbal, psychological or sexual harassment that is intended to violate the dignity, cause suffering or threaten the health of an employee. Harassment, on the other hand, is a systematic or prolonged act or omission against one person or group that is intended to cause fear, humiliation or indignity.
In both cases, there are serious violations of labor rights that not only affect the well-being of the affected person, but also negatively affect the workplace atmosphere and the effectiveness of the team.
Steps taken by the International Congress on Industrial Hygiene
International organizations such as the International Congress of Occupational Hygiene (ICOH) realize the seriousness of the problem of violence and harassment in the workplace. That's why they have been conducting studies, sharing experiences and developing guidelines to counter these negative phenomena for years. Below are the most important steps ICOH has taken in this area:
1. Developing company policies
One of the most important things an organization should do is develop a policy that explicitly prohibits violence and harassment in the workplace. This policy should be well thought out, clear and accessible to all employees. It should also include procedures for reporting, investigating and responding to violations.
2. Training for employees and management
To effectively address violence and harassment in the workplace, employees and managers should be well informed about the issue. ICOH recommends that training be conducted to educate employees on their rights and responsibilities to protect themselves from violence and harassment. Training should include recognizing and responding to situations of this nature and knowing how to support those affected.
3.Monitor and report cases
In order to best understand the scale of the problem and take effective action, it is necessary to monitor and report cases of violence and harassment in the workplace. ICOH encourages organizations to conduct systematic data collection on the subject and create reports to serve as a basis for further action.
4. Building a culture of respect
To counter violence and harassment in the workplace, it is not enough to simply prohibit these behaviors. It is necessary to build a culture of respect and acceptance in which every employee feels respected and safe. ICOH recommends promoting positive relationships among employees, engaging in pro-social activities, and allowing employees to participate in the creation of work spaces.
Summary
Violence and harassment in the workplace are serious problems that require immediate intervention. The International Congress of Industrial Hygiene has been taking measures to counter these negative phenomena for years. Introducing company policies, conducting training, monitoring cases and building a culture of respect are key elements in the fight against violence and harassment in the workplace. Only through the joint efforts of employees, management and international organizations can we create a safe and friendly workplace for all. Let's remember that every employee deserves respect and decent working conditions.
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