Workers who observe or experience harassment and feel that their employer did not take swift and appropriate action to stop it may escalate to external authorities such as human rights tribunals, or resort to “social media shaming”, resulting in serious reputational consequences for employers.

Just as employees should understand their rights and their obligations when experiencing and addressing workplace harassment issues, given the potential impact of workplace harassment on productivity, the well-being of employees, effects on a company’s public image, and liability concerns, employers should know how to investigate and take corrective action if applicable.