Labour Law2025-11-247 min read
Workplace Sexual Harassment: Your Rights and How to Report It
Sexual harassment at work is illegal. Understand what constitutes harassment, your rights under the law, and how to report it to HR, the CCMA, or the police.
What is Sexual Harassment?
Sexual harassment is unwelcome conduct of a sexual nature that violates a person's dignity or creates a hostile work environment.
Examples:
- Unwanted physical contact, sexual comments, or requests for sexual favors.
- Displaying sexually explicit images or sending inappropriate messages.
- Making comments about someone's body or appearance.
Your Rights
Sexual harassment is illegal under the Employment Equity Act. Your employer must investigate complaints and take disciplinary action.
What to Do
- Document all incidents with dates and evidence.
- Report to HR or management.
- If no action is taken, lodge a complaint with the CCMA within 6 months.
- You can claim compensation for emotional distress and financial loss.
Key Takeaways
- Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual conduct that violates your dignity.
- Your employer must investigate and protect you from retaliation.
- Report to HR, and if they don't act, go to the CCMA.
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