The new Worker Protection Act came into force on 26 October 2024. Our Chief Executive John Kirkpatrick said: 

“The Worker Protection Act will introduce new preventative duties for employers regarding sexual harassment in the workplace. We welcome these vital protections coming into force.

“Sexual harassment continues to be widespread and often under-reported. Everyone has a right to feel safe and supported at work. The new preventative duty aims to improve workplace cultures by requiring employers to proactively protect their workers from sexual harassment.

“Employers will need to take reasonable steps to safeguard their workers. We have updated our guidance to ensure they understand their obligations and the kinds of steps they can take.

“We will be monitoring compliance with the new duty and will not hesitate to take enforcement action where necessary.”

Read our updated Sexual harassment and harassment at work - technical guidance

Read our 8-step guide for employers on sexual harassment in the work place

The above information is from News from the Equality and Human Rights Commission Equality Law News Newsletter Tue 05/11/2024