Preventing Sexual Harassment in the Hospitality Workplace
Use this kit of helpful resources to implement your Restaurant Anti-Harassment Policies. It should be more than just a page in the Staff Manual, but a living document that protects the team and keeps everyone productive, safe and happy. These documents have been drafted as a starting point – edit and modify them to meet your venue’s needs. Please contact your industrial relations or human resources adviser if you need further legal advice or assistance.
What’s included in this resource:
Useful Websites
Sample Anti-Harassment Policy
Wording for Anti-Harassment Posters
How to Raise the Issue of Anti-Harassment in a Meeting or Work Forum
How to Create a Q&A based on your Anti-Harassment Policy
This could be suitable for onboarding new staff, who need to know the range of issues covered. It could also be a memo on the wall or shared with the team.
Harassment Has No Place in this Business
We are committed to providing a safe workplace for all our workers, free from discrimination, harassment, bullying and other unacceptable and/or unlawful behaviour.
Harassment happens when someone feels scared, insulted, or embarrassed because of who they are, such as their religion, beliefs, or personal characteristics. Some examples of harassment include:
Repeated, unwanted comments about someone’s religion or politics
Calling someone names over and over again
Using harsh or hurtful language to make someone feel bad, threatened, or less important. Words can be just as harmful as actions
Jokes, rude comments, or offensive actions about someone’s disability, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation
Sharing or showing things that are offensive
Constantly asking about someone’s private life
Repeated, unwanted touching
Serious offences like indecent assault or other crimes
What is Not Harassment?
Not all work conversations will be easy. Everyone should talk to their coworkers with respect and care, especially during difficult discussions. It’s also important to know the difference between harassment and necessary actions at work. For example, giving advice, sharing different opinions, or providing feedback is not usually considered harassment. Managers and supervisors giving feedback on work performance or behaviour to help improve things is also not harassment.
3. Sample Wording for Anti-Harassment Posters…
– Respect Everyone: What You See on Social Media May Not Be OK at Work. – Kind Words Only: Swearing and Offensive Talk Aren’t Welcome Here. – Speak Up: If Something Feels Wrong, We’re Here to Listen. – Keep It Clean: We Don’t Tolerate Dirty Language or Bad Behaviour. – Create a Safe Space: Everyone Deserves Respect, Every Day. – Respect Starts Here: Offensive Language Has No Place at Cafe ABC. – Jokes Aren’t Always Just Jokes: Bad Language Can Be Harassment. – Harassment Is Not Welcome Here: Report It, We’re Listening. – Lead by Example: Set the Standard for Respect in Everything You Say and Do. – Respect Personal Space: Unwanted Touching Is Not OK.
4. How to Raise the Issue of Anti-Harassment in a Meeting or Work Forum
Simple scripts for an owner or manager to use in a staff meeting, on a poster or internal messaging service.
Topic 1: Addressing Dirty Jokes Hi everyone, I just want to take a moment to talk about something important. We all want to keep things light and fun, but I want to remind everyone that dirty jokes can make others uncomfortable. Let’s avoid that kind of humour here, even if it’s just a joke. It’s important that everyone feels respected. If you’re not sure if something is appropriate, it’s best not to say it. Thanks for understanding.
Topic 2: Addressing Excessive Swearing I want to quickly mention the language we use around here. I know swearing can sometimes slip out, it happens. But let’s all make an effort to keep our language clean, especially when customers or other staff are around. It’s also something that young staff may not hear at home, and we have a legal duty to protect them. Swearing can make the workplace feel less professional, and we want to keep things positive and respectful for everyone. Let’s be mindful of our words.
Topic 3: Addressing Discussions of Sexual Relationships I need to bring up a quick point about conversations in the workplace. Talking about personal sexual relationships, even casually, can make others feel uncomfortable. This isn’t the place for those kinds of discussions. Let’s keep our talk professional so that everyone feels comfortable working here. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to chat with me privately.
Topic 4: Reinforcing Respectful Behaviour This is a quick reminder for everyone: our goal is to create a respectful and professional environment. That means being careful with our words and actions. Dirty jokes, swearing, and personal conversations that might be too private have no place here. Let’s all work together to make sure that everyone feels safe and respected.
Topic 5: Encouraging Open Communication I want to make sure everyone knows that if something makes you uncomfortable – whether it’s a joke, language, or a conversation – you can always come to me, and we’ll address it. It’s important that we talk openly about these things so we can all enjoy a positive work environment. Don’t hesitate to speak up if something’s bothering you.
Topic 6: Setting the Tone and Being Professional I just want to remind everyone about the kind of workplace we’re aiming to create here. Professionalism is key, including how we talk to each other. Let’s avoid any jokes or talk that could be seen as inappropriate or too personal. We all want to feel comfortable coming to work, so let’s keep our focus on respect and kindness.
5. Create a Q&A based on a Restaurant Anti-Harassment Policy
Once you have a policy in place, it’s easy to use AI services like ChatGPT to create a Q&A – this can be an easy way for people to understand what the policy means. Here are some examples drawing on the policy on page one of this document.
1. What is harassment? Answer: Harassment happens when someone is made to feel scared, insulted, or embarrassed because of who they are, like their religion, beliefs, or personal characteristics. It can include unwanted comments, name-calling, offensive jokes, or even unwanted touching.
2. Can jokes or comments be considered harassment? Answer: Yes, jokes or comments that are rude, hurtful, or related to someone’s disability, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation can be harassment, especially if they are repeated or unwanted.
3. Is it harassment if someone keeps asking about my private life? Answer: Yes, if someone is always asking about your private life and makes you uncomfortable, it can be considered harassment.
4. What should I do if I feel like I’m being harassed? Answer: If you feel harassed, it’s important to speak up. You can talk to your manager or a trusted supervisor about what’s happening to address it.
5. Is giving feedback or sharing a different opinion considered harassment? Answer: No, giving feedback, sharing different opinions, or providing advice to help someone improve their work is not considered harassment as long as it’s done respectfully.
6. Can using harsh language be a form of harassment? Answer: Yes, using harsh or hurtful language to make someone feel bad or threatened is a form of harassment. Words can be just as harmful as actions, so it’s important to always speak with respect.
6. Discussion Topics for Pre-Shift Meetings
Use these topics for short, meaningful pre-shift discussions on these important topics.
1. Respectful Communication: Words Matter Discussion Focus: Talk about how the words we choose can impact others, even when we don’t mean any harm. Emphasise the importance of speaking to each other with respect, both in the kitchen and front of house. Key Message: ‘Think before you speak – our words can either build up or tear down our team.’ Discussion Questions: 1. ‘Can you think of a time when something someone said at work made you feel good or valued? What about a time when it made you feel bad?’ 2. ‘How can we make sure that the way we talk to each other always shows respect, even when we’re busy or stressed?’
2. What Is Harassment? Simple Examples Discussion Focus: Give a few simple examples of what harassment looks like, such as unwanted jokes or comments. Keep it brief and relatable to the work environment. Key Message: ‘Harassment isn’t always obvious – if something makes you uncomfortable, it’s important to speak up.’ Discussion Questions: 1. ‘What are some examples of comments or jokes that might seem harmless but could actually be hurtful or considered harassment?’ 2. ‘If you ever feel uncomfortable because of something someone says or does, what steps can you take to address it?’
3. Supporting Each Other: Being a Good Colleague Discussion Focus: Discuss how staff can support each other if they see or experience something inappropriate, like stepping in or offering to listen. Key Message: ‘We’re a team – let’s watch out for each other and speak up if something doesn’t feel right.’ Discussion Questions: 1. ‘If you see a colleague in an uncomfortable situation, what’s the best way to support them?’
2. ‘Why is it important for us to look out for each other in the workplace, especially when it comes to preventing harassment?’
4. Handling Difficult Conversations Discussion Focus: Briefly discuss how to handle difficult conversations, such as giving feedback or addressing a problem, in a respectful and helpful way. Key Message: ‘It’s okay to have tough conversations – just remember to be respectful and focus on the issue, not the person.’ Discussion Questions: 1. ‘How can we address problems or give feedback without making the other person feel attacked?’ 2. ‘How can we make sure that our difficult conversations are constructive and help improve our teamwork?’
5. Understanding Boundaries: What’s Okay and What’s Not Discussion Focus: Explain the importance of respecting personal boundaries, whether it’s physical space or avoiding personal topics that could make someone uncomfortable. Key Message: ‘Everyone has different boundaries – let’s respect them to keep our workplace safe and comfortable.’ Discussion Questions: 1. ‘Why is it important to respect personal boundaries, like avoiding physical contact or personal questions, at work?’ 2. ‘How can we be more aware of each other’s boundaries to ensure everyone feels safe and respected?’
6. Encouraging a Positive Workplace Culture Discussion Focus: Encourage a discussion on what makes a positive workplace culture and how each team member can contribute, such as by being kind, avoiding gossip, and supporting one another. Key Message: ‘A positive workplace starts with us – let’s all contribute to making this a place where everyone feels respected.’ Discussion Questions: 1. ‘What small actions can we take each day to create a positive and respectful work environment?’ 2. ‘How can we support each other in creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and included?’
Use this kit of helpful resources to implement your Restaurant Anti-Harassment Policies. It should be more than just a page in the Staff Manual, but a living document that protects the team and keeps everyone productive, safe and happy. These documents have been drafted as a starting point – edit and modify them to meet your venue’s needs. Please contact your industrial relations or human resources adviser if you need further legal advice or assistance.
What’s included in this resource:
1. Useful websites and government resources
Fair Work Australia on Sexual Harassment in the Workplace
Respect@Work on creating safe, inclusive and respectful workplaces
Australian Human Rights Commission – Addressing Workplace Sexual Harassment for Hospitality Managers
Worksafe New Zealand on Sexual Harassment
Employment New Zealand on Harassment at Work
US Dept of Justice – Combatting Sexual Harassment
Sexual Harassment Training – Requirements for All 50 US States
ServSafe – Harassment Prevention Training
Foodie Coaches – How to Write a Restaurant Code of Conduct
Foodie Coaches – How to Create a Powerful Values Statement for Your Cafe or Restaurant
2. Sample Restaurant Anti-Harassment Policy
This could be suitable for onboarding new staff, who need to know the range of issues covered. It could also be a memo on the wall or shared with the team.
Harassment Has No Place in this Business
We are committed to providing a safe workplace for all our workers, free from discrimination, harassment, bullying and other unacceptable and/or unlawful behaviour.
Harassment happens when someone feels scared, insulted, or embarrassed because of who they are, such as their religion, beliefs, or personal characteristics. Some examples of harassment include:
What is Not Harassment?
Not all work conversations will be easy. Everyone should talk to their coworkers with respect and care, especially during difficult discussions. It’s also important to know the difference between harassment and necessary actions at work. For example, giving advice, sharing different opinions, or providing feedback is not usually considered harassment. Managers and supervisors giving feedback on work performance or behaviour to help improve things is also not harassment.
3. Sample Wording for Anti-Harassment Posters…
– Respect Everyone: What You See on Social Media May Not Be OK at Work.
– Kind Words Only: Swearing and Offensive Talk Aren’t Welcome Here.
– Speak Up: If Something Feels Wrong, We’re Here to Listen.
– Keep It Clean: We Don’t Tolerate Dirty Language or Bad Behaviour.
– Create a Safe Space: Everyone Deserves Respect, Every Day.
– Respect Starts Here: Offensive Language Has No Place at Cafe ABC.
– Jokes Aren’t Always Just Jokes: Bad Language Can Be Harassment.
– Harassment Is Not Welcome Here: Report It, We’re Listening.
– Lead by Example: Set the Standard for Respect in Everything You Say and Do.
– Respect Personal Space: Unwanted Touching Is Not OK.
4. How to Raise the Issue of Anti-Harassment in a Meeting or Work Forum
Simple scripts for an owner or manager to use in a staff meeting, on a poster or internal messaging service.
Topic 1: Addressing Dirty Jokes
Hi everyone, I just want to take a moment to talk about something important. We all want to keep things light and fun, but I want to remind everyone that dirty jokes can make others uncomfortable. Let’s avoid that kind of humour here, even if it’s just a joke. It’s important that everyone feels respected. If you’re not sure if something is appropriate, it’s best not to say it. Thanks for understanding.
Topic 2: Addressing Excessive Swearing
I want to quickly mention the language we use around here. I know swearing can sometimes slip out, it happens. But let’s all make an effort to keep our language clean, especially when customers or other staff are around. It’s also something that young staff may not hear at home, and we have a legal duty to protect them. Swearing can make the workplace feel less professional, and we want to keep things positive and respectful for everyone. Let’s be mindful of our words.
Topic 3: Addressing Discussions of Sexual Relationships
I need to bring up a quick point about conversations in the workplace. Talking about personal sexual relationships, even casually, can make others feel uncomfortable. This isn’t the place for those kinds of discussions. Let’s keep our talk professional so that everyone feels comfortable working here. If you have any questions or concerns, feel free to chat with me privately.
Topic 4: Reinforcing Respectful Behaviour
This is a quick reminder for everyone: our goal is to create a respectful and professional environment. That means being careful with our words and actions. Dirty jokes, swearing, and personal conversations that might be too private have no place here. Let’s all work together to make sure that everyone feels safe and respected.
Topic 5: Encouraging Open Communication
I want to make sure everyone knows that if something makes you uncomfortable – whether it’s a joke, language, or a conversation – you can always come to me, and we’ll address it. It’s important that we talk openly about these things so we can all enjoy a positive work environment. Don’t hesitate to speak up if something’s bothering you.
Topic 6: Setting the Tone and Being Professional
I just want to remind everyone about the kind of workplace we’re aiming to create here. Professionalism is key, including how we talk to each other. Let’s avoid any jokes or talk that could be seen as inappropriate or too personal. We all want to feel comfortable coming to work, so let’s keep our focus on respect and kindness.
Foodie Coaches People & Culture articles and resources for managing your team.
5. Create a Q&A based on a Restaurant Anti-Harassment Policy
Once you have a policy in place, it’s easy to use AI services like ChatGPT to create a Q&A – this can be an easy way for people to understand what the policy means. Here are some examples drawing on the policy on page one of this document.
1. What is harassment?
Answer: Harassment happens when someone is made to feel scared, insulted, or embarrassed because of who they are, like their religion, beliefs, or personal characteristics. It can include unwanted comments, name-calling, offensive jokes, or even unwanted touching.
2. Can jokes or comments be considered harassment?
Answer: Yes, jokes or comments that are rude, hurtful, or related to someone’s disability, religion, ethnicity, or sexual orientation can be harassment, especially if they are repeated or unwanted.
3. Is it harassment if someone keeps asking about my private life?
Answer: Yes, if someone is always asking about your private life and makes you uncomfortable, it can be considered harassment.
4. What should I do if I feel like I’m being harassed?
Answer: If you feel harassed, it’s important to speak up. You can talk to your manager or a trusted supervisor about what’s happening to address it.
5. Is giving feedback or sharing a different opinion considered harassment?
Answer: No, giving feedback, sharing different opinions, or providing advice to help someone improve their work is not considered harassment as long as it’s done respectfully.
6. Can using harsh language be a form of harassment?
Answer: Yes, using harsh or hurtful language to make someone feel bad or threatened is a form of harassment. Words can be just as harmful as actions, so it’s important to always speak with respect.
6. Discussion Topics for Pre-Shift Meetings
Use these topics for short, meaningful pre-shift discussions on these important topics.
1. Respectful Communication: Words Matter
Discussion Focus: Talk about how the words we choose can impact others, even when we don’t mean any harm. Emphasise the importance of speaking to each other with respect, both in the kitchen and front of house.
Key Message: ‘Think before you speak – our words can either build up or tear down our team.’
Discussion Questions:
1. ‘Can you think of a time when something someone said at work made you feel good or valued? What about a time when it made you feel bad?’
2. ‘How can we make sure that the way we talk to each other always shows respect, even when we’re busy or stressed?’
2. What Is Harassment? Simple Examples
Discussion Focus: Give a few simple examples of what harassment looks like, such as unwanted jokes or comments. Keep it brief and relatable to the work environment.
Key Message: ‘Harassment isn’t always obvious – if something makes you uncomfortable, it’s important to speak up.’
Discussion Questions:
1. ‘What are some examples of comments or jokes that might seem harmless but could actually be hurtful or considered harassment?’
2. ‘If you ever feel uncomfortable because of something someone says or does, what steps can you take to address it?’
3. Supporting Each Other: Being a Good Colleague
Discussion Focus: Discuss how staff can support each other if they see or experience something inappropriate, like stepping in or offering to listen.
Key Message: ‘We’re a team – let’s watch out for each other and speak up if something doesn’t feel right.’
Discussion Questions:
1. ‘If you see a colleague in an uncomfortable situation, what’s the best way to support them?’
2. ‘Why is it important for us to look out for each other in the workplace, especially when it comes to preventing harassment?’
4. Handling Difficult Conversations
Discussion Focus: Briefly discuss how to handle difficult conversations, such as giving feedback or addressing a problem, in a respectful and helpful way.
Key Message: ‘It’s okay to have tough conversations – just remember to be respectful and focus on the issue, not the person.’
Discussion Questions:
1. ‘How can we address problems or give feedback without making the other person feel attacked?’
2. ‘How can we make sure that our difficult conversations are constructive and help improve our teamwork?’
5. Understanding Boundaries: What’s Okay and What’s Not
Discussion Focus: Explain the importance of respecting personal boundaries, whether it’s physical space or avoiding personal topics that could make someone uncomfortable.
Key Message: ‘Everyone has different boundaries – let’s respect them to keep our workplace safe and comfortable.’
Discussion Questions:
1. ‘Why is it important to respect personal boundaries, like avoiding physical contact or personal questions, at work?’
2. ‘How can we be more aware of each other’s boundaries to ensure everyone feels safe and respected?’
6. Encouraging a Positive Workplace Culture
Discussion Focus: Encourage a discussion on what makes a positive workplace culture and how each team member can contribute, such as by being kind, avoiding gossip, and supporting one another.
Key Message: ‘A positive workplace starts with us – let’s all contribute to making this a place where everyone feels respected.’
Discussion Questions:
1. ‘What small actions can we take each day to create a positive and respectful work environment?’
2. ‘How can we support each other in creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and included?’
Check the other useful blog posts on the Foodie Coaches website…
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