A recruitment expert has cautioned the hospitality and catering sectors about the upcoming changes in sexual harassment laws.

Kasia Krieger, business manager at Worcester-based Pineapple Recruitment, has issued the warning ahead of the government's extensions to the Worker Protection (Amendment of Equality Act 2010) Act 2023.

The changes, which will take effect on Saturday, October 26, will impose new responsibilities on employers to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.

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Failure to comply will permit employment tribunals to increase an employee's discrimination compensation by up to 25 per cent if a breach of duty is found.

Ms Krieger highlighted the susceptibility of the hospitality industry to sexual harassment due to high customer interaction, the presence of alcohol, and the informal work atmosphere.

She said: "From October 26, all employers will have a legal duty to prevent sexual harassment in the workplace.

"Previously, employers were primarily liable if they failed to act on harassment incidents that had been reported.

"However, the new legislation imposes a duty on employers to be proactive and take reasonable steps to stop harassment before it occurs, placing the focus on prevention."

Ms Krieger noted the reintroduction of protections against third-party harassment as one of the most significant changes.

She explained: "This means employers are responsible if their employees are harassed by customers, clients, or other non-employees.

"That’s a crucial point for the hospitality and catering sectors, where workers frequently engage with clients and the public."

The new laws also require employers to establish structured channels for employees to report harassment, and hold employers accountable if they fail to ensure a safe working environment.

Ms Krieger said: "It needs regular reviews of anti-harassment policies and procedures, including proving how line managers are being trained.

"A culture of openness and support will be key to success in the months ahead."

She also stressed the need for rigorous screening of candidates to ensure they meet the anti-harassment standards, appropriate training, and awareness of legal responsibilities for both parties.

For more information, readers can contact the team at Pineapple Recruitment through their website.