The amendment to the Equality Act 2010, in the form of the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Bill, looks like it will pass through Parliament and bring new responsibilities for employers.
So, what could these responsibilities look like and how do you prepare?
Under this amendment to the Equality Act, employers could be directly liable for harassment by a third party unless you can prove you took all reasonable steps to prevent the harassment. For example, this may involve a client or supplier and may also include liability for just one incident, whether it is sexual harassment or another form of harassment. If the bill passes, it will be your responsibility to ensure your employees are protected in the workplace. This may include taking steps to enact new anti-harassment policies or update your current ones, ensure you have clear contractual terms with any third party and also ensure you provide regular training. These steps will ensure that you are limiting your liability, setting clear and definite boundaries with third parties, show you are taking reasonable steps to eliminate harassment in your workplace and—above all—ensuring that your employees feel safe in the Workplace.
