Sexual Harassment Training Seminars in Pennsylvania
Workplace harassment continues to make headlines across the country. The #MeToo movement has emboldened more victims to speak out and hold perpetrators accountable. This increased awareness means employers in Pennsylvania need to ensure they are providing adequate anti-harassment training to protect their workers and reduce legal liability.
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
The Case for Workplace Harassment Training
While no employer wants to believe they could have a workplace harassment issue, the statistics tell a different story. In 2018 alone, the EEOC received over 7,500 sexual harassment charges nationwide. And a 2017 ABC News/Washington Post poll found 33 million U.S. women have endured unwanted sexual advances from male coworkers.
Beyond the ethical imperative of preventing harmful misconduct, there are practical reasons for Pennsylvania employers to invest in thorough harassment training:
The law: Pennsylvania employment law mandates anti-harassment training for all employers with staff based here. Not meeting training requirements can lead to costly penalties and lawsuits.
Reduces legal claims: Research shows effective training helps curb incidents of wrongdoing and creates a more respectful, inclusive environment with fewer complaints.
Protects your reputation: Word spreads quickly in the #MeToo era. Allegations of harassment—even if unfounded—can inflict lasting damage on your brand as an employer. Training shows you take these issues seriously.
Good for engagement: Employees who feel safe and valued at work perform better and stick around longer. Ongoing training promotes a positive culture that boosts retention and productivity.
What Pennsylvania Law Says
The state of Pennsylvania requires all employers with staff working here to provide mandatory sexual harassment prevention training. This includes:
• All private sector employers with one or more employees
• State and local government agencies
• Any corporation or partnership with one or more employees
Under Act 172, passed in 2020, training must cover all protected classes subject to discrimination and harassment laws, including sex, race, color, religion and national origin. It must educate supervisors and staff on:
• Relevant state/federal laws and penalties
• Behaviors that constitute harassment/discrimination
• The complaint process and responsibilities for reporting issues
• Retaliation protections for those reporting misconduct
• Remedies available under the law
Pennsylvania employers must:
• Training must be completed within 6 months of initial hiring, and every 2 years after
• Provide 2 hours of training for all supervisors
• Provide 1 hour of training for nonsupervisory employees
• Have trainees sign an acknowledgment form verifying participation
Organizations that fail to comply face fines up to $1,000 for the first violation and up to $5,000 for each subsequent offense.
Creating a Respectful, Inclusive Environment
While mandated training is important for baseline knowledge, true culture change comes from the top down. Leaders must model positive behavior and confront issues head on. Other tips for nurturing a respectful workplace include:
• Survey staff regularly to monitor engagement and get a pulse on developing problems
• Encourage upstander intervention from employees who witness concerning conduct
• Develop clear-cut policies and investigative procedures for handling complaints
• Impose consistent discipline when policy violations occur, regardless of role or tenure
Additionally, promote from within to set the tone for valuing diversity, make harassment issues a regular topic at company meetings, get involved with local campaigns like #MentorHer, allow for flexible work options so no groups feel marginalized, and bring in external specialists to audit current practices.
Pennsylvania cities providing onsite Sexual Harassment training seminars:
Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Allentown,
Philadelphia: Hilton Hotel:
1201 Market Street, 1200 Filbert St, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Pittsburgh: Marriott
Hampton Inn & Suites Pittsburgh/Harmarville
2805 Freeport Road Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15238 USA
Allentown: Hampton Inn
15080 Kutztown Road, Kutztown, PA, 19530