Work Harassment, thoughts from an employment lawyer

A recent news article caught my eye, saying “Christchurch business owner jailed for attempted rape and indecent assault of employee”.

In summary Gerald Diver, the owner of a local painting business, had been sexually harassing and assaulting female staff members. While he was not convicted of rape, the judge “found it likely” that Diver had raped a young female employee, that he had plied with alcohol.
One young lady resigned, and another confronted Diver about attempting to rape her, and then he sacked her!

The issue for anyone dealing with offensive behaviour of any type, particularly sexually offensive behaviour, is what to do about it? A good first step is to get advice. Larger companies will say that they have HR to deal with such issues, but in my experience there are times when HR will support and protect the reputation of the individuals, and the company, over the employees.

Any employer should have simple and easy solutions about where somebody can go for further advice. It is as simple as reformatting this article as a poster, and putting it somewhere visible in the workplace. In cases of serious assaults or rape – start with the police.
A quick Google search will show several organisations working in this area.

They include:
Safe to Talk , 24/7 confidential helpline, call 800 044 344, or text them at 4334
Aviva – www.aviviafamilies.org.nz
START – Sexual Assault Support Services Canterbury
Victimsupport.org.nz 0800 842 846

Employers have a positive obligation to provide a safe working environment and something as simple as a poster in the workplace is not a big ask.