Immediate Steps to Take When Sexual Harassment Occurs

Safety and Self-Protection First

Immediate Safety Measures: - Remove yourself from dangerous situations immediately - Seek help from coworkers, security, or supervisors if threatened - Document your location and any witnesses present - Save evidence before it can be destroyed or modified - Consider involving law enforcement if physical assault occurs Emotional and Psychological Protection: - Recognize that harassment is not your fault - Seek support from trusted friends, family, or counselors - Contact employee assistance programs if available - Consider temporary accommodations to avoid harasser - Document emotional and physical impact of harassment

Clear Communication That Conduct is Unwelcome

Direct Verbal Objection: When safe to do so, clearly communicate that behavior is unwelcome: - "That behavior is inappropriate and unwelcome." - "Please stop making sexual comments to me." - "I am not interested in a personal relationship." - "Your conduct is making me uncomfortable." - Use clear, unambiguous language without softening the message Written Communication: Follow up verbal objections with written documentation: - Send email summarizing your verbal objection - Keep copies of any written communications - Use company email systems to create official record - Be professional but firm in written communications - Date and save all written objections Witness Involvement: When possible, make objections in front of witnesses: - Choose trusted coworkers as witnesses when confronting harassment - Ask witnesses to document what they observed - Follow up with witnesses about their recollections - Request witnesses provide written statements if comfortable - Maintain relationships with supportive witnesses

Documentation Specific to Sexual Harassment

Detailed Incident Records: Document sexual harassment with specific attention to: - Exact sexual language used (direct quotes) - Physical contact details (where, how long, force used) - Sexual content of any materials displayed - Your clear objections and the harasser's response - Impact on your work environment and performance Pattern Documentation: Sexual harassment often escalates, so document: - Frequency and progression of inappropriate behavior - Different types of harassment experienced over time - Witnesses to various incidents and patterns - Changes in harasser's behavior after you object - Impact of cumulative harassment on your well-being Evidence Preservation: Sexual harassment evidence requires special handling: - Save sexually explicit messages or images (despite being offensive) - Photograph inappropriate materials before they're removed - Keep voice messages with sexual content - Document any quid pro quo offers or threats - Preserve evidence of retaliation after complaints