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EOC Launches its Training Module on Preventing & Dealing with Sexual Harassment

07/10/1997

The Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) launched today (7 October 1997) its first training module : The Training Module on Preventing and Dealing with Sexual Harassment.

Speaking at a press briefing, Dr. Fanny CHEUNG Mui-ching, Chairperson of the EOC, said, "The development of the training module is part of the public education initiatives taken by the Commission to promote equal opportunities."

It is the first of the three training modules designed to give trainers guidelines in running training on equal opportunities issues. Other training modules being developed are the Training Module on Equal Opportunities for Women and Men and the Training Module on Disability Discrimination.

"Sexual harassment is a form of discrimination and is unlawful under the Sex Discrimination Ordinance (SDO). It can involve physical, verbal or non-verbal sexual advance, request or conduct of a sexual nature which is uninvited and unwelcome." Dr. CHEUNG explained.

"Under the law, employers have the responsibility to ensure that the working environment is not sexually hostile or intimidating. In a workplace, sexual harassment can affect the working atmosphere and productivity. It undermines morale, efficiency and job satisfaction." Dr. CHEUNG emphasized.

This Training Module is targeted at helping employers, human resources practitioners, teachers, social workers, concern group workers, trade unions officials and other interested parties to set up policies to prevent and deal with sexual harassment in their organization. The materials in the package include training manual for trainers, a teaching video, booklets and pamphlets. With the use of interactive and structured training activities, the module is designed to give trainees an in-depth and practical understanding on what constitutes sexual harassment, the relationship between sexual harassment and equal opportunities, and dealing with sexual harassment. "Combating sexual harassment at the workplace can only be successful if an organization is actively committed to its elimination and prevention." Dr. CHEUNG pointed out.

The EOC has earlier issued a Code of Practice on Employment under the SDO to help employers understand better their legal liability and responsibility under the SDO, to give employers practical guidelines in the elimination of discrimination, to encourage the setting up of equal opportunities policies within their organization including policy to prevent and deal with sexual harassment prevention policy and handling procedures. The Training Module on Preventing & Dealing with Sexual Harassment is now available and sold at the EOC Office and a network of large bookstores at HK$600 per set.

Enquiry: EOC Hotline 25118211

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