Recent events surrounding popular TV shows remind us of the importance of maintaining a professional and respectful work environment. A case in the media at present involves a renowned reality TV show.  The show is currently facing a major controversy involving allegations of sexual harassment by a senior producer. The producer is accused of multiple inappropriate actions, including touching a junior staff member without consent, multiple invitations to his hotel room, and showing her a questionable video of explicit content.

Case Study: Misconduct on a TV Set

Reports surfaced regarding inappropriate behaviour by a senior producer towards junior staff members. Here are some incidents that were reported:

• In January 2020, a senior producer allegedly shared details about a past sexual encounter with a colleague, specifically mentioning that it happened when the colleague “used to be skinny.” During this conversation, the producer also claimed to have once tried to date a contestant on the show.
• On another occasion, the same producer spoke about receiving intimate "selfies in bed and in the bath" from another staff member, describing them in a way that evoked explicit imagery and causing discomfort to junior employees.
• Text messages from March 31, 2020, showed the producer addressing a junior employee as the “Main Babe” and making references to other colleagues as “babes”, pointing out changes in their employment status. The message read: “Lucy ain’t coming back … Phoebe is done … All the babes are leaving. Except for the Main Babe … you might know her.”
• A junior staff member was once invited to view a music clip on the producer’s phone. Unexpectedly, part of this video showed the producer naked and simulating intimate actions with an inanimate object, causing significant discomfort and offense to the viewer.
• The producer was also known to make "intrusive questions" regarding personal matters, like using dating apps, past marital history, and openness to dating younger individuals.
• On one occasion, the producer made an inappropriate comment about a junior employee's choice of undergarment, prompting a response requesting that such comments be avoided.
• During the Covid-19 pandemic, when a junior staff member faced financial hardships, the producer offered his hotel room for her to use the laundry facilities, promising to vacate during her visit. Upon arrival, the producer was still present and made unwarranted advances.

Guidelines for Employers:

Drawing from the above incident, here are steps employers can take to avoid such issues:

• Clear Communication of Workplace Conduct: Every employee, regardless of their position, should be inducted.
• Training: Conduct regular training sessions highlighting the importance of professional behaviour. These sessions should also educate employees about what constitutes misconduct.
• Open Channels of Communication: Employees should have access to safe channels to report any discomfort or misconduct.
• Immediate Action: Ensure prompt action upon receiving a complaint. Addressing issues swiftly can prevent escalation.
• Protection for Whistleblowers: Protect employees who voice their concerns, ensuring they don't face repercussions for coming forward.

In light of the rising concern surrounding workplace misconduct, we've developed a comprehensive Sexual Harassment Download Package tailored to empower employers and safeguard employees. This all-in-one solution includes interactive training modules, clear workplace signage to educate and remind staff of appropriate behaviours, and a detailed risk assessment toolkit. Remember, as an employer, the responsibility lies with you to create and maintain a safe working environment. Our package is meticulously designed to assist you in ensuring that your workplace not only meets but exceeds the standards for professional conduct. Don't leave things to chance; equip yourself and your team with the tools necessary to foster a respectful and harassment-free workspace.