Preventing Sexual Harassment

There are several different ways to reduce sexual harassment in the fire service. One such way is by raising the issue with IAFF members. Every IAFF affiliate is encouraged to make sure that all IAFF members clearly understand the types of behavior that are unacceptable in the workplace. Inform members of the following:

• Employment conditions cannot be made based on sexual relations.
• Unwelcome sexual advances by supervisors and coworkers are not tolerated.
• Sexual joking, off-color jokes, verbal abuse, demeaning sexual inquiries, vulgarity, obscene gestures and lewd comments are unacceptable.
• The displaying of sexually oriented posters, magazines, or other graphic materials is not condoned.

Assure members that their union is committed to ensuring that all persons employed in the fire service have the opportunity to work in an environment that is not offensive, intimidating or hostile because of one’s gender. Document this position and sponsor sexual harassment programs concerning appropriate conduct.

Tell members what to do if they are confronted with unwelcome sexual behavior. Outline each of the following steps:

1. Ask the person to stop the harassing behavior. This strengthens the position of the member, if the member reports the incident later.
2. If the harassment persists, file a formal complaint with a local union officer (or station steward) or the EEOC.
3. Document the complaint by keeping a diary or log that details each of the incidents. Write down what happened, what was said, who was there and who might have witnessed the incident.

Make it simple for members to report sexual harassment violations. If a grievance procedure does not exist, then set up an internal complaint procedure. Write this procedure to encourage members to come forward with allegations of sexual harassment. Reassure members that all complaints will remain confidential, and that no retaliation will be taken against any member who comes forward with a complaint.

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