Nadisha Hunter, Gleaner Writer

Few things are more annoying than employees who put their creepy-crawlies on co-workers. But when touching gets into the realm of general discomfort and, even worse, sexual harassment, staffers are encouraged to take matters into their own hands.

Dr Leahcim Semaj, psychologist and career consultant at The Job Bank, urges employees to stand their ground and not allow co-workers to impose their will on them. Although some women cross the line popular sentiment suggests men are the main culprits.

"Men need to know that a lady's body is not a toy and so they should be disciplined," stated Semaj.

He advises female employees to establish, from the get-go, the rules of engagement - stating clearly what is acceptable behaviour and speaking out when persons overstep boundaries.

Value

If the lines are blurred from the beginning, it becomes difficult later to change the rules of the game.

"Your person is sacred and anybody touching should do so with your consent. Once you allow anyone to touch, it can reach a stage where the woman loses value," Semaj warned.

Michael Blair, principal of Bermaddy Primary School, shares similar views. He said an organisation's code of conduct should specifically address sexual and other inappropriate behaviour, and should be laid out during the orientation process.

nadisha.hunter@gleanerjm.com

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