Policy - Workplace Harassment
Section: Human Resource Policies
Policy Owner: Ignition633 Ministries Nigeria Human Resources
Policy Name: Workplace Harassment Policy
Origination Date: November 2024
Purpose
This policy promotes a respectful workplace where all employees are treated with dignity and fairness and establishes clear guidelines regarding unacceptable behaviors that may constitute harassment or bullying.
Scope
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, interns, and volunteers working at or for Ignition633 Nigeria, both on and off company premises and during any work-related activities or events.
Policy Statement
Ignition633 Nigeria is committed to providing a work environment that is free from all forms of harassment, discrimination, and bullying. We believe that every employee, regardless of their role, has the right to work in a respectful and safe environment. Harassment, including bullying, discrimination, or any form of inappropriate behavior, will not be tolerated.
Definition of Harassment
Harassment is any unwelcome, offensive, or inappropriate conduct directed toward an individual or group based on their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. This includes, but is not limited to:
Verbal harassment
Name-calling, slurs, offensive jokes, or comments.
Physical harassment
Unwanted physical contact, threats, or intimidation.
Sexual harassment
Unwelcome advances, inappropriate comments or gestures, requests for sexual favors, or any other sexually suggestive behavior.
Bullying
Repeated mistreatment of an individual through verbal abuse, offensive conduct, or sabotage of their work.
Discriminatory harassment
Treating someone unfairly or differently based on their race, gender, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability, or other protected statuses.
Definition of Bullying
Bullying refers to repeated, intentional harm or mistreatment of others. It can take many forms, including verbal abuse, belittling comments, exclusion, spreading malicious rumors, or sabotaging someone's work.
Bullying behaviors include:
- Intimidation or threats.
- Spreading false or malicious information.
- Undermining someone’s work or reputation.
- Consistent exclusion from workplace activities or communications.
- Deliberately isolating or marginalizing an individual.
Expectations for Workplace Behavior:
The Organization expects all employees to:
- Treat others with dignity, respect, and fairness.
- Communicate professionally and courteously in all interactions.
- Avoid behavior construed as harassment, bullying, or discrimination.
- Be sensitive to others' cultural, social, and individual differences.
- Address conflict respectfully and seek constructive solutions.
Reporting Harassment or Bullying
Employees who feel they have been subject to harassment or bullying are encouraged to report the behavior immediately. We urge individuals to speak up, whether the victim or a witness to the harassment. There are several ways to report concerns:
- Speak directly with your immediate supervisor or manager.
- Contact the Human Resources department.
- Use the company’s anonymous reporting system (if available).
Reports will be handled confidentially to the extent possible. Employees will not be retaliated against for reporting harassment, bullying, or discrimination in good faith.
Investigation and Resolution
Upon receipt of a harassment or bullying complaint, the company will promptly investigate the matter. The investigation will include interviews with the affected party, the accused, and any relevant witnesses. Every effort will be made to resolve the issue fairly and promptly.
If harassment or bullying is found to have occurred, appropriate corrective action will be taken, which may include disciplinary measures up to and including termination of employment. The company will also take steps to prevent any future incidents from occurring.
No Retaliation
Ignition633 Nigeria strictly prohibits retaliation against any employee for reporting harassment, bullying, or any related concerns. Retaliation includes any adverse action, such as demotion, termination, or exclusion from opportunities, taken against an employee for making a good-faith complaint or participating in an investigation.
Training and Education
To foster a culture of respect, the Ministry provides regular training on harassment prevention, diversity and inclusion, and respectful workplace behavior. All employees, including managers and supervisors, must participate in this training and understand the importance of creating and maintaining a harassment-free workplace.
Conclusion
Ignition633 Nigeria is dedicated to ensuring our workplace remains professional, respectful, and inclusive. We believe that everyone has the right to feel valued and safe while at work. Harassment and bullying are unacceptable, and we are committed to taking appropriate action to prevent and address any such behavior.
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This policy will be reviewed annually and is subject to change. Any changes will be communicated to all employees promptly.
For any questions or further assistance regarding this policy, employees should contact the HR department at hr.nigeria@ignition633.org.