Gov't releases guidebook on workplace harassment
Have you ever commented about the way a co-workers looks, or made a joke about what that person does in the privacy of their own homes? If so, you may want to watch your tongue, as the government is moving to educate people on sexually harassment.
The Ministry of Employment and Labor announced Thursday that it will release a guidebook to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace. It will help people understand what harassment is and how to cope with it.
According to the ministry, it is much easier to identify cases of physical harassment, as opposed to verbal harassment, which can be more ambiguous.
For example, the physical contact such as unwanted kisses or hugs amount to sexual harassment. Linking arms with a person and bringing them to a karaoke room (where women are paid to sit with male customers) can be a form of harassment.
Observers say that verbal harassment can be harder to distinguish.
But the list is clear: If a person may feel humiliated by a comment or action that pertains to sexuality, you’re better off keeping your thoughts to yourself, the ministry says in the book.
There is no exception for women, either. For instance, a female supervisor commenting on a male subordinates body could be deemed harassment.